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Explore the Vanagon dictionary.

Explore the original Vanagon.com bus terminology and mailing-list slang, preserved with source links and clearly labeled translations.

1,503 definitions

VW Bus and camper parts

The exterior electrical inlet used to connect an equipped camper to campsite alternating-current power. Wiring, voltage, current rating, and supported appliances vary by market and model year.

Vanagon Dictionary editorial reference
VW Bus and camper parts

A fuel container and supply connection serving propane appliances fitted to some camper conversions. Tank location, capacity, regulator, lines, and supported appliances are installation-specific; use the vehicle and appliance documentation for operation or service.

Vanagon Dictionary editorial reference
VW Bus and camper parts

A heat exchanger that removes heat from engine oil. Air-cooled Type 2 engines use an oil cooler in the engine cooling assembly; design and mounting vary by engine. It is distinct from a Vanagon coolant radiator.

Vanagon Dictionary editorial reference
VW Bus and camper parts

An exterior hose inlet that connects a camper's water system to a pressurized campsite supply. The fitting and plumbing arrangement vary; the vehicle manual distinguishes this mode from drawing water with the onboard pump.

Vanagon Dictionary editorial reference
VW Bus and camper parts

An onboard tank that stores water for a camper's sink supply. Capacity, location, filler, vent, and drain differ by conversion; it is not necessarily a potable-water-rated tank unless the specific installation is documented as such.

Vanagon Dictionary editorial reference
VW Bus and camper parts

The small electric pump that moves water from an onboard camper tank to the sink faucet when the tank-water mode is selected. It is separate from the engine's coolant-circulation pump.

Vanagon Dictionary editorial reference
VW Bus and camper parts

A hinged roof section that raises above a camper van to create extra headroom and, when equipped, access to an upper sleeping area. Roof construction, latches, and bed equipment vary among VW Bus and camper conversions.

Vanagon Dictionary editorial reference
VW Bus and camper parts

The flexible fabric enclosure between a raised camper roof and the fixed vehicle roof. Depending on the design, it may include screened or closable openings; it is an enclosure, not a roof support or fall-protection device.

Vanagon Dictionary editorial reference
VW Bus and camper parts

A camper's rear bench seat that folds or rearranges to form the lower sleeping surface. The conversion mechanism and dimensions depend on the interior layout.

Vanagon Dictionary editorial reference
VW Bus and camper parts

The belt-driven pump that circulates engine coolant through the water-cooled Vanagon engine and cooling circuit. It is different from the small electric pump used to deliver water to a camper sink.

Vanagon Dictionary editorial reference