Welcome to the latest Performance VW project which, over the next few months, we plan to modify into a race support Caddy. Wish us luck…
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Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7
Part 8
Part 9
Race Support Caddy Project (Part 1)
When Jules mentioned we were building our next project with Teng Tools, naturally I was excited at the prospect.
Having recently built a Touring Car rep’ with Fast Ford, I couldn’t wait to hear what they’d planned for PVW. And then Jules revealed it was going to based on a Caddy van…
First, we need to find one…
Let’s not get too ahead of ourselves, though. We still needed to find a base and I was a little bit worried about the budget we’d been given. So worried, that I decided to let Jules find us a‘decent’ Maxi himself. Meanwhile, I could work on a wish list of the parts.
Jules soon discovered finding a Caddy for sale wasn’t the hard part as there are literally thousands. Locating the right one… well, that’s a bit harder. All I really specified was that it had to be a TDI, as the non-turbo versions are absolutely gutless. Air con would have been nice, too, but we needed to be realistic.
It’s already broken…
Eventually, after a lot of surfing, Jules found a pretty clean, white, 61-plate 1.6TDI Maxi that ticked all the boxes. Okay, so in hindsight, letting Jules go solo to collect the van from Devon was a bit mean. I felt even worse after getting a photo from him of ‘our’ Caddy at Fleet services… on an AA recovery.
Thankfully, the AA soon diagnosed the problem to be a faulty injector which is a common problem with the 1.6TDI. In fact, up until recently, the AA used to carry spares with them. Sadly, they no longer do, so it was a slow journey back to Kelsey’s HQ in Kent for Jules. Hopefully it will be an easy fix, though.
Next time…
Tune in next time where we’ll talk you over our plans for the build. Hopefully, we’ll also have an artists impression of what it might look like. We’ve got TV’s Helen Stanley to thank for that. See you then…
Race Support Caddy Project (Part 2)
We’ve got ourselves a theme
Okay, so we might have used a bit of creative license when introducing our Project Race Support Caddy in our previous video. I’ll be brutally honest, I’m a car guy, not a van guy. That being said, after Jules mentioned the theme for our van was a race support vehicle, it didn’t take long for my creative juices to start flowing.
Firstly, Teng Tools’ branding is centred around a bright red base colour. This got instantly got me thinking back to the old VW T1 spit-screen ‘Rennsport’ (Racing) support vans that Porsche used back in day. These were all, you guessed it, painted bright red and looked instantly cool with their ‘Porsche Rennsport’ branding.
If it’s good enough for Porsche…
In fact, Porsche itself produced a concept EV MPV a few years back branded the Porsche vision ‘Renndienst’ (Racing service). This was loosely based on that same T1 support van.
More recently, Porsche Deutschland also build a handful of ID.Buzz themed around the same Rennsport T1 van. These were created to support the German Carrera Cup teams. I figured if the theme was good enough for Porsche, then why couldn’t we adapt that idea for our Caddy project?
If the Rennsport T1 was red, though, and our Caddy was white, how were we going to colour swap it to suit? Were we looking at a full respray which would be both costly and time consuming, or did we have something else in mind? Tune in next time to find out…
Race Support Caddy Project (Part 3)
The masterplan
After sending her a bunch of ideas as inspiration for our Project Race Support Caddy, Helen Stanley’s artist impression gave us a real vision of what our van could look like. Could, we said…
That’s a wrap
With a respray costing upwards of £3000 and our project being based around a sensible budget, we decided a wrap was the perfect way to change our van’s colour without breaking the bank. For this, Jules suggested we use Arlon’s fantastic Premium Colour Change material featuring its FLITE Technology. This basically enables fast, easy installation, excellent repositioning and clean removability.
Red or dead
Basically, when it comes to wrapping film, this is as good as it gets. And when it came to choosing a suitable colour, laying one of Teng’s bright red tools over the Arlon colour-swatch drew our eyes straight to the Gloss Red (401) shade which, as far as we are concerned, is the perfect match!
Body moving
Before we could send the old girl off to be wrapped, first we would need to repair the slight damage to the rear of the near-side sill. We’d also need to fill any imperfections in the body that you would otherwise see once the van had been wrapped. When it came to choosing a suitable bodyshop, Midge suggested we take the Caddy to see Kwok at Kode in the Isle of Sheppey.
Not only is Kode’s bodyshop local to Kelsey HQ, Midge has also used Kwok for a number of previous projects. Nothing has ever been too much work for him previously. Kwok was quick to point out that on top of the repairs, we would also need to paint any textured parts of trim that we planned to have wrapped. And not just coat them with primer, but actually clear coat them, so the wrap would really stick to them.
Originally, we intended to stick with the original bumpers and just colour-code them to the rest of the wrap. Kwok had other ideas. He is currently trying to convince us to snap up the hybridMk6 GTI/Caddy bumper he’s halfway through building. It was started for a customer who then changed their mind, apparently. This would certainly look the part, but we are trying to demonstrate what can be achieved for minimal outlay. You’ll have to wait till next time to find out which way we go.
Race Support Caddy Project (Part 4)
Wheeler dealers
This month, we finally decided which wheels will be gracing Project Race Support Caddy. Initially, we favoured the new Rotiform STL, which is an 18, 19 or 20” wheel that looks like an over-sized steel. It’s actually an alloy that mimics the OEM pepper pot-style steels found on a lot of VW commercial vehicles.
Back to the drawing board
Frustratingly, after speaking to Jay and Scott at Wheel Pros Europe (who import Rotiform into the UK) we soon realised this wheel wouldn’t fit the Caddy without major work as it’s not available in a 5×112. The other PCDs on offer don’t come in an adaptor-friendly ET. Back to the drawing board…
It didn’t take us long to find another suitable wheel from the Rotiform catalogue in its BUC-M model. Initially, we liked the clean lines of the regular BUC (above), but we decided it would be cool to run Rotiform’s futuristic AeroDiscs which aren’t compatible on the BUC. They do, however, fit on the BUC-M (below).
As it transpires, the ‘M’ model would actually be more fitting with our Race Support theme anyway. These have a deeper outer lip that also has ‘Rotiform Motorsport’ embossed into it. We only realised after making our minds up that these were actually the same wheels used on Fast Ford’s Rep to Racecar…
We ordered the wheels in black and also went for four black AeroDiscs, so we could pick and choose how we used them. At times we may want to run all four on the van, or occasional just have them fitted up front (like a lot of the old Group C cars did back in the 80s and 90s). It’s good to have a choice…
We’re also planning to have some sort of custom decals applied to the AeroDisc when the van is wrapped. Watch this space…
Race Support Caddy Project (Part 5)
This month we start to nail down the spec of the air ride for our Project Race Support Caddy. Choosing a solution wasn’t as straight forward as we had imagined. Still, exciting times…
Air suspension
Last time we went into a little bit more detail about the Rennsport T1 theme we had planned for our project. We also talked about how we intended to change the van’s colour from red to white. This time, we needed to work out how we were going to get our van, which was currently up in the clouds, considerably closer to terra firma. There was only one solution, in our minds…
Firstly, Jules spoke directly with Air Lift Brand Manager, Mike Alexander in the States about the specific air ride parts we’d need. We’ve used Air Lift products on a number of past projects and it’s always been exceptional, both in terms of performance and value.
No problems, just solutions
The one slight problem we have is, Air Lift doesn’t produce a complete bolt-on set-up for the rear. The rear leaf-spring suspension on the back of the Caddy is something of a minefield, if we’re honest. Well, it used to be. After looking at converting the factory suspension ourselves, we decided one of the bolt- on axle-swap solutions made far more sense. This would certainly be quicker and a lot less work for our Midge, who already had his work cut out with the custom air install in the back.
We’ve been drawn to Only Charged Dubs’s all-new four-link axle set-up (as seen above) produced specifically for the Caddy 2k. Not only is it a direct, bolt-on swap, but the axle is said to totally transform the ride of the Caddy. We’re contemplating using OCD’s BAGs rear bags, too, to keep the rear set-up totally uniform.
Midge is certainly excited at the prospect of using the OCD kit, but then the air install in the back of the van – attempting to utilise the compressors and air tank to also run a selection of Teng air tools from – is going to keep him busy as it is. We’ll be looking more at tools and tool boxes next time…
Back to the Air Lift products, we discovered we’d need to measure our front struts before ordering our dampers as Caddy 2Ks came with 50mm and 55mm legs. At least this gave Midge the excuse to break out his calipers of death (don’t ask) to measure them. Ours are 55mm. Apparently the calipers don’t lie…
As for management, we’ll be opting for Air Lift’s 3P system, which is the simpler pressure based set-up, which would be perfect for us.
As it’s going to be on display for all to see, one of Air Lift’s FLO air tanks (as used in our Project Don’t Tell Mom), along with a pair of compressors should finish things off a treat. Below you’ll see the set up we used previously…
Race Support Caddy Project (Part 6)
With the air suspension ordered, it was now our chance to sort the bodywork on the Race Support Caddy Project, prior to its wrap. We would also need some tyres, too, so we called in ours friends at Toyo for some advice.
Body moving
When we dropped our van at Kode for Kwok to work his magic, we assumed he would just be repairing the sill and sorting out a couple of dents. Little did we know there was more to prepping vehicles to be wrapped…
We soon discovered, though, that there’s far more prep involved in getting an old vehicle ready for a wrap. Especially if it’s seen a bit of action like our Caddy. Obviously, wrapping new or later cars means far less preparation is needed.
Not only do any paint imperfections need to be sorted at the bodyshop beforehand. We soon discovered any textured parts we wanted wrapping would need a clear coat in order for the wrap to stick properly.
While we originally thought about colour-coding all the textured trim, we later decided to only cover the bumpers and grille, leaving the other trim parts textured to help with contrast. As you can see, Kwok made quick work of the bumpers and sill, so we’re now all ready for the wrap. We’re getting there, slowly.
Rubber fetish
While Kwok was sorting the bodywork, I got on the phone to our friend Barry Vango at Toyo Tires to talk, you guess it, tyres. Now, when people usually change their rolling stock, the focus is usually on the wheels and the rubber is often over lan afterthought.
While ‘Wheels Maketh The Car’, it’s actually the tyres that play a far more important role in keeping said car on the road and those inside safe. Decent rubber can obviously look good, too, but it’s usually the performance and what value for money the tyre offers that people are concerned about.
When it comes to performance, we’re usually concerned about the levels of grip offered in wet and dry conditions, plus how noisy (or quiet) the tyres are. Obviously, the levels of wear are also a major factor when choosing a suitable tyre.
When we mentioned to Barry that we were after a 225/35 ZR19 which ticked all of these boxes, he came straight back to us with Toyo’s Proxes Sport 2 seen here. It’s not just a good looking tyre, but promises to be a great all rounder as well. We can’t wait to test it out soon.
Race Support Caddy Project (Part 7)
Once we’d decided a colour change was in order for our Race Support Caddy Project, there was only one solution that fitted with our ‘realistic’ budget. Yes, you guessed it – a full vinyl wrap.
Wrap superstar
When considering a wrap, there are three main factors to get right from the start. The first is not to skimp on the actual vinyl itself. Cheaper is definitely not better in this department, so be sure to select a high-end product to begin with. Thankfully, Jules already had this part covered having built up a strong working relationship in the past with vinyl producer, Arlon.
Secondly, it’s vital to find an experienced company to take care of the application process itself. After speaking with Ben Snowdon at Arlon, we were pointed in the direction of Prestige Automotive, based locally to us in Sittingbourne. Not only have Prestige been wrapping vehicles for over a decade, they also deal with all manner of vinyl applications. So, basically, it knows everything there is to know about applying vinyl to vehicles. Result!
Lastly, it’s important to ensure the vehicle you’re having wrapped is not only clean and rust free, but also free from any dents or bodywork imperfections. I guess two out of three wasn’t bad, right? Joking aside, we were aware our Caddy wasn’t the straightest or cleanest vehicle around, but then what did our publisher expect for £5000? That’s why we’d sent it off to Kode’s bodyshop beforehand to be prepped for wrapping.
Red rum, red rum…
When it came to choosing a colour for our wrap we went with Gloss Red from Arlon’s Premium Colour Change (PCC) range. Thankfully, the colour is pretty much identical to the red shade that Teng Tools use. Also, PCC product features Arlon’s FLITE Technology, which enables fast and yet precise application. It also has excellent repositioning properties, clean removability (for further down the road) and even features a self-healing surface.
Prestige MD, Jamie Broughton was also quick to point out that another of PCC’s USPs is that it comes with a protective film in place. This ensures the vinyl arrives in perfect condition and can be removed just before application. It’s safe to say Arlon’s PCC ticked all of the boxes…
Easy life…
We were pleasantly surprised to hear that Jamie would be leading the application of our Caddy’s wrap. Jamie was proud to admit he’s been applying vinyl to vehicles since he was 17. Before any vinyl even leaves its packaging, Jamie told us that his team start the whole process by removing any parts of trim or light clusters that would otherwise get in the way. It’s far easier this way, rather than cutting around objects during application, and also leaves a better finish.
Once all parts have been removed, it’s then time to begin what is effectively a deep clean using fall-out remover, followed by a session with the clay bar. Not only will any imperfections show under the vinyl, so will any bits of grit or grime. The fall- out remover doesn’t just get rid of stuff you can see, but it also erases the stuff you can’t which might prevent the vinyl from sticking.
Race Support Caddy Project (Part 8)
After the prep work was carried out and various trim parts removed, it was finally time to wrap the Race Support Caddy Project. Thankfully, it was in good hands with Prestige Graphics…
New order
We asked Jamie at Prestige whether there was a particular order to the way vinyl is applied to a vehicle. He said that while generally they do try to start at the top and work their way down (in order not to scratch the surface you’ve just wrapped), it doesn’t always work out that way. Ultimately, no two vehicles or applications are exactly the same.
Easy as 1,2,3… maybe
For some reason, a lot of people think anybody can wrap a car and we’ll admit, at first glance the Prestige lads did make it look easy. I guess part of that comes with experience. Besides, it’s only as you watch Jamie and his experienced team move around the Caddy – getting to see the whole process unfold – that you begin to realise just what a skilled profession this is. Easy, it is not…
Back to black
It was surprising to see how quickly the Prestige team covered the bulk of the van, but it’s the smaller, more intricate areas that always take the time. We also slowed the process down a bit by deciding to opt for a gloss black roof – to break up the wash of red. We must say a huge thank you to Craig at Spandex for supplying the PCC black at such short notice.
True colours
One small issue we did spot was that Kwok had been instructed to paint the front bumper and the integrated grille sections, so it could all be wrapped. The thing is, firstly the grille sections were so intricate that it would be almost impossible to wrap them perfectly. Secondly, it would look terrible colour- coded anyway. So, Midge quickly ran off with the front bumper to get the upper and lower grille sections painted in satin black. Nothing like a bit of last minute pressure, right?
Back on track
On arriving back at Prestige the following day, the guys had made quick work of the wrapping process and the Caddy was coming back together. While Jamie grabbed the bumper to work his magic on that, the Arlon logos were applied to the door mirrors. These were printed on hi-tac vinyl in order for them to stick to the textured plastic.
On the down low
An Arlon sun strip was also added, but we’re leaving the other Rennsport decals and sponsor logos until the rest of the modifications are finished. We don’t want to give everything away this early in the build.
Shut that door
It’s safe to say the transformation really is incredible and the quality of application is second to none. Our only small regret was choosing not to have the door shuts wrapped in order to keep the cost down. It’s worth noting that while wrapping can be a cheaper alternative to a full-on, high-end respray, it’s imperative that you buy a quality vinyl and choose an established company to apply it..
Somebody got wind?
This really isn’t a cheap DIY process! Since getting the van back, Midge has fitted a gloss black wind deflector along the front leading edge of the bonnet. This helps further enhance the van and give it a slightly more aggressive facade – not that it will need too much help once the air suspension and wheels go on shortly. Watch this space…
Race Support Caddy Project (Part 9)
With our wrap complete it was time start kitting out the back of Project Race Support Caddy. But first, a trip to Teng Tools was in order to stock up on goodies…
When it came to kitting out the back of our Caddy, Midge, Jules and myself attempted to come up with a suitable idea. Firstly, we needed to keep our sponsor, TengTools, happy. It also had to work with our Race Support theme and fit with our ‘sensible’ budget. In reality, Midge came up with an idea and ran with it…
To be fair to Midge, he was the guy in charge of making this idea a reality. So, Jules and I didn’t put up too much of a fight. Ultimately, Midge’s idea was to have a huge chest-type tool box visible when you opened the rear doors. Then, perhaps, a couple of cubby holes above it, to house power tools etc.
In the centre of the van would be another lower-level tool box mounted on top of a frame. This would house the Fly air tank and Air Lift management. A false floor would then fill the remaining floor area with various, open-top tool boxes and trays sunk into it.
Then, an air reel hose would be hidden below and a pair of slim tool cases mounted in the side of the raised floor. Each of these would be accessible through the sliding doors. Near the front of the van, just before the bulk heads, would be a hinged trap-door, beneath which we could hide other more unsightly tools.
Before we could head up to Teng Tool’s HQ in Bedford, we first needed to take a bunch of measurements, so we knew exactly which tool boxes would fit where. Jules and I decided to leave Midge to this, while we headed off for a well-earned bacon butty.
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