T4 Syncro...update?

[Seano]

OK it is fair to say that these are getting on these days. My own is approaching 300k km and it in its 18th year.

Unfortunately, VW have seen fit to drop many of the Syncro driveline parts in the last few years. Some have come back via the Classic Parts lineup (notably the rear differential...only 5500 Euros [cough]).

However...rear driveshafts are just as problematic. Turns out that Turner Enterprises in Oz has the rear CVs for both inner and outer CVs. About $300 per set...

But the real killer could be the centre support bearings for the propshafts. VW deleted these back in 2013... they're gone. The only viable alternative appears to be to modify some aftermarket bearings made for the LT (pre Crafter!) that are themselves only available in Europe. The only thing I've found with similar specifications is the bearing fitted to a Land Rover Freelander...not very reassuring.

I've gone the LT route myself...two bearings for $175 delivered. Given the original trade price from VW Oz for one (as given to me today) was $430...I think I will manage.

[jets]

Given the popularity of the T4/Eurovan in the rest of the world I am not too worried. The price of a good T4 in the UK & mainland Europe seems to be holding or even going up on some models [California/Westfalia] even with high mileage. To maintain these vans require spare parts & they are big business. Spares for the T4 are generally now not held in Adelaide but are available on the next day delivery. I have so far not been knocked back for any part that I needed including stretch bolts.
Thanks for your experience with the centre bearing & rear drive CV boots.