I may have found a "project car". I've been looking at air-cooled Beetles. I was planning to head to Elizabeth City NC in the next couple of weeks. One of my co-workers and Zcarnut (remember him) told me about a shop/garage/business of some type, that had a couple of dozen Beetles, most, if not all, are for sale.
Tonight I get home and the 17yo across the street is watching his little brother ride his bike around the yard. I stopped and talked to him. He has a 1988 Prelude Si. I was just curious if it had a auto trans or a five-speed. During the conversation, I mentioned that I noticed he hadn't driven it lately. He said it had a cracked radiator. I know he isn't mechanically inclined and asked what he was going to do with it. He said he didn't know. I said that if you decide to sell it, let me know. Turns out, if his mom is OK with it, he might just sale it.
I was talking to my wife about it before she left for work. Seems that isn't the whole story. The state pulled the kid's license for getting four speeding tickets within a year. He can't drive it anyway, for another year or so.
The body is straight. The interior needs seats and carpeting. I presume it needs a radiator, but hard to tell if it needs anything else. Nice thing about this car is that it hasn't been "riced". It is completely stock, even the wheels. I'm planning on talking to his mom it this weekend.
At a 110k+ miles, as well as what I know the car needs, I'm thinking that it shouldn't be worth more than $500-600.
What do you guys think?
Also, I've looked over some Honda parts sites, but who do you Honda guys recommend for parts. Someplace reliable and affordable.
I know what VW's cost to redo, I've done several. Mind you, I'm just thinking about this and I'm trying to get an idea of what I'd be getting into dollar-wise.
Thanks.
BTW, this is like the third car I've found and the one most likely where the owner is willing to part with it. I thought I had found a 240Z, well I did find it, but the owner is letting it rot untill he decides to restore it. If he keeps waiting, he may as well sell it for scrap.
The wife's a little peeved though. I told her that even if I get the Prelude, I'm still buying a Beetle this summer.
Do you know which engine it has? All the honda guys say to steer clear of the 2.1L
Sounds like a fun car, not my type, but fun anyway. Personally I would rather stick with the aircooled VW, maybe a Karman Ghia with a built motor making around 200hp.
Yeah, SaltyDog is right, the 2.1L engine is prone to burning oil a lot.
If it's the 2.0, it's a pretty solid engine, and they are great handling cars.
No, not sure which engine, but I worked for a Honda dealer from 84-89 and I only recall the 2.0 in 1988.
Yeah, I just looked it up, and the 2.1 was only available in 1990 and 1991.
Quote from: The Pirate on February 15, 2007, 07:53:45 PM
Yeah, I just looked it up, and the 2.1 was only available in 1990 and 1991.
That sounds about right.
Personally, I'm not a fan of that generation Prelude. I'd just go for the Beetle (or a Ghia!).
The Prelude will not be a money maker, but it could be a good driver. Bugs are much better for projects if you want to end up selling them (like you' I've built many. Over 30 aircooled VWs, to be honest).
Quote from: ChrisV on February 16, 2007, 07:28:25 AM
The Prelude will not be a money maker, but it could be a good driver. Bugs are much better for projects if you want to end up selling them (like you' I've built many. Over 30 aircooled VWs, to be honest).
I don't know. I'm picturing that qualude with the FWD yanked out and a 4.6 Ford engine five speed and rear end. ;)
Quote from: etypeJohn on February 16, 2007, 08:11:16 AM
I don't know. I'm picturing that qualude with the FWD yanked out and a 4.6 Ford engine five speed and rear end. ;)
Now I'm just picturing quaaludes.
Quote from: ChrisV on February 16, 2007, 07:28:25 AM
The Prelude will not be a money maker, but it could be a good driver. Bugs are much better for projects if you want to end up selling them (like you' I've built many. Over 30 aircooled VWs, to be honest).
I might be selling my EJ18 if it's in good enough condition in the spring. A 110+ hp, 6000 rpm, water-cooled Beetle would be kind of interesting if someone is up for the project. I've seen it done before.
I don't think anybody wants a rotten first gen Z unless they want to practice welding and brazing anyway. I think it's better just to get a car from California.
I'm not sure how much an old Volkswagen costs to restore, but old Zs are pretty cheap since most of the parts are still available at the local Napa, CarQuest, or Nissan dealer. Even bigger parts like old motors, trannys, and diffs usual don't go for much over $300 used.
I'd go for it... Maybe youll catch the prelude bug like Ben and get about 50000 more. :lol:
Customer just came in to get a title out of his truck. He's meeting a guy this afternoon to sell a 280z for $900, new pads, rotors, calipers, and recon'ed head.
Turns out his brother has a couple of 911's and an MG for sale. I'm delivering his truck to him this afternoon to see what he has.
The z would have been a good deal.
MG Midget!
Or shit, an old 911!
Quote from: etypeJohn on February 16, 2007, 08:11:16 AM
I don't know.? I'm picturing that qualude with the FWD yanked out and a 4.6 Ford engine five speed and rear end.? ?;)
:lol: I was thinking the same thing.
Quote from: Raza on February 16, 2007, 12:49:55 PM
MG Midget!
Or shit, an old 911!
These cars were a fine example of good ol'boys who think they have something worth some money.
Turned out to be a late 70's MGB. Though I don't like the rubber bumpers from that period, ChrisV's photos in another thread meant that I would have really considered it, except for the price. He was asking 2k and to me it wasn't worth more than 800-1000. Needed paint and interior, wires were hanging under the steering column, and a top. He had a new top, and a hardtop, but hadn't installed it.
The 911's, he wanted 3700.00 for each. Both were mid-seventies. One would make a good parts car for the other. I would have considered the gold one in the shop, even if it wasn't running. Unfortunately, he had removed the engine and transmission, the interior, and front suspension and brakes. There is nothing worse than going behind someone who has taken a car apart.
The search continues.
How much do 2002s run?
How much work do you want to do?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Restoration-Project-Parts-Car_W0QQitemZ150089638860QQihZ005QQcategoryZ42601QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Less labor intensive (it seems):
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1975-BMW-2002-NO-RESERVE_W0QQitemZ290082269780QQihZ019QQcategoryZ42601QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
I wouldn't count on the Prelude being worth only $500, think more along the lines of a grand.
Quote from: etypeJohn on February 16, 2007, 08:11:16 AM
I don't know. I'm picturing that qualude with the FWD yanked out and a 4.6 Ford engine five speed and rear end. ;)
Wouldn't it make more sense to just fix up a used Mustang or am I missing something here?
Quote from: sandertheshark on February 16, 2007, 05:14:43 PM
Wouldn't it make more sense to just fix up a used Mustang or am I missing something here?
Imagine pulling up to a light with a stock looking Prelude and then dropping your jaw because it lights its rear tires on fire. :praise:
That's what having a sleeper is all about.
Quote from: Raghavan on February 16, 2007, 05:20:31 PM
Imagine pulling up to a light with a stock looking Prelude and then dropping your jaw because it lights its rear tires on fire. :praise:
That's what having a sleeper is all about.
Every time a Prelude pulls up next to me I half expect it to shoot off in a cloud of melted Toyo and nitrous-laden exhaust. I don't think a ricer's weapon of choice makes a very good starting point for a sleeper. :huh:
Quote from: sandertheshark on February 16, 2007, 05:27:44 PM
Every time a Prelude pulls up next to me I half expect it to shoot off in a cloud of melted Toyo and nitrous-laden exhaust. I don't think a ricer's weapon of choice makes a very good starting point for a sleeper. :huh:
But from the rear wheels? And with a V8 rumble?
Quote from: Raghavan on February 16, 2007, 05:28:34 PM
But from the rear wheels? And with a V8 rumble?
:lol: I love the idea, but it's a 20 year old Prelude. What a waste of a V8..........which makes the idea totally kickass! :rockon:
The only Mustangs I like were last built in 1970.
A 2002 BMW would be a good project, but if I were looking at something like that, I'd be chasing the elusive Datsun 510. Finding one of those that hasn't been restored and is complete is impossible....well, almost.
The 280Z btw, needed paint and seat covers, the dash was split. Ran great. Too bad it was already sold.
Quote from: TBR on February 16, 2007, 04:46:54 PM
I wouldn't count on the Prelude being worth only $500, think more along the lines of a grand.
A very similar (read: some rust, high miles, needs work) Prelude sold in my neck of the woods for $800 a while back.? I think it's realistic.
Quote from: JWC on February 16, 2007, 06:13:20 PM
The only Mustangs I like were last built in 1970.
A 2002 BMW would be a good project, but if I were looking at something like that, I'd be chasing the elusive Datsun 510. Finding one of those that hasn't been restored and is complete is impossible....well, almost.
The 280Z btw, needed paint and seat covers, the dash was split. Ran great. Too bad it was already sold.
I saw a 64/5 going for $1200 "obo" not too long ago near me, and it was an apparent runner with little to no rust (automatic, though). I think a 1970's realistic in your price range.
I saw a 1968 Mustang in the CBT not long ago for 800.00, but it was a sixer. From the photo, it looked pretty rough.
Quote from: sandertheshark on February 16, 2007, 05:14:43 PM
Wouldn't it make more sense to just fix up a used Mustang or am I missing something here?
Other than a lot of people do a lot of things with cars that don't make a heluva lot of sense.
Quote from: JWC on February 16, 2007, 06:13:20 PM
The 280Z btw, needed paint and seat covers, the dash was split. Ran great. Too bad it was already sold.
Heh...
Needed? I thought they were supposed to do that! If you find a 70-78 dash that isn't split, you're rich. Same thing with the seats and the paint.
The engines are hard to fault, though. They came with forged connecting rods from day one.
A 1988 car with only 110+ thousand miles? Sounds alright...
Quote from: 280Z Turbo on February 16, 2007, 09:05:37 PM
Heh...
Needed? I thought they were supposed to do that! If you find a 70-78 dash that isn't split, you're rich. Same thing with the seats and the paint.
The engines are hard to fault, though. They came with forged connecting rods from day one.
There must be something about the plastics on all '70s vehicles...
Yeah, we had a Fairmont Futura in the shop this week. The steering wheel looked as if it had melted in the sun and the steering column covers were flaking away every time we touched it.
...and the guy is going to RESTORE it! (Well, it was his grandmother's and it did only have a little over 30K miles on it.)
It had spent its life parked in the sun and hardly had any paint left on it. Just patches of blue and rust.
Datsun 510 :praise:
Quote from: the Teuton on February 16, 2007, 07:15:39 PM
A very similar (read: some rust, high miles, needs work) Prelude sold in my neck of the woods for $800 a while back.? I think it's realistic.
In what world is 110k high miles for a 20 year old car?
And, relating to the rwd V8 powered Prelude, it is being done but with a LS1: http://www.honda-tech.com/zerothread?id=1645997&page=1
Anything over 90K is high miles for any car, in my opinion, but for some cars more than others. The 100k mileage marker doesn't have the same negative overtones as it once did, but it is still a car with 100,000 miles of unknow driving and maintenance history.
Any vehicle without service records, and mileage over 80-90K is a risk.
Any car without a warranty is a risk and the more miles the more risk, but 110k is still very low mileage for a car that old so I am not sure how you can use it as a bargaining tool. The national average of miles per year is something like 12k, that means that if driven an average amount by the average owner the Prelude would have 240k. For the record, my Prelude with over 300k miles has only need $120 of work in 6 months, but I saved about $2000 because of that mileage.
Quote from: TBR on February 17, 2007, 05:13:50 PM
Any car without a warranty is a risk and the more miles the more risk, but 110k is still very low mileage for a car that old so I am not sure how you can use it as a bargaining tool. The national average of miles per year is something like 12k, that means that if driven an average amount by the average owner the Prelude would have 240k. For the record, my Prelude with over 300k miles has only need $120 of work in 6 months, but I saved about $2000 because of that mileage.
I believe that generally, the number of miles driven is expected to decrease as time goes by. Cars with 100k generally become secondary vehicles in a family, not primary and as such, begin to be driven less. This is the same as with a newer vehicle, say three-four years old as having 100k, definitely a high mileage car.
While you can say that 110k for an 1988 vehicle is below average, it is still high mileage. I wouldn't expect a selling point of a 1988 model car to be, "great car, average miles for this model....250,000 miles."
Even though it's a Honda, would you call is low mileage? Is 110k low?
I also got one step closer today to the original dune buggy that started this whole thing a few weeks ago. I actually talked to the wife of the guy that owns it. I could tell by her tone that she wants it gone, but she said he probably wouldn't get rid of it. She is going to give him my number though, just in case.
I couldn't speak to him...because he was hunting.
Quote from: JWC on February 16, 2007, 11:06:11 PM
Yeah, we had a Fairmont Futura in the shop this week. The steering wheel looked as if it had melted in the sun and the steering column covers were flaking away every time we touched it.
...and the guy is going to RESTORE it! (Well, it was his grandmother's and it did only have a little over 30K miles on it.)
It had spent its life parked in the sun and hardly had any paint left on it. Just patches of blue and rust.
The 2nd gen seems to hold up much better with sunlight. Those tend not to have so many cracks as the first gens.
My car is a '76 from California, that spent at least part of its life in Arizona. My dash is split, cracked, chipped, you name it. When I took it out to work on the HVAC system, the number of splits seemed to double. :(
My steering wheel is wrapped up in one of those 1970's perforated vinyl things, but underneeth I know it's dried up foam with the texture of sandpaper. The wire wrap for my steering wheel cover came off...but the cover is baked on there for good! :lol:
Quote from: Soup DeVille on February 16, 2007, 08:54:24 PM
Other than a lot of people do a lot of things with cars that don't make a heluva lot of sense.
There was a guy on Zcar.com that had a standalone fuel injection system and spent about $700 to convert his Z to a 4 barrel carburetor. I think he liked the way it looked or something. :huh:
I don't know how you can call an old Prelude a "project car".
Just put a Chevy 350 in a Porsche 914 and get it over with already. :rolleyes:
Actually, the 914 would be quite fun. Buick 3800 swaps are fairly common for them, as well.
Quote from: The Pirate on February 17, 2007, 08:23:26 PM
Actually, the 914 would be quite fun.? Buick 3800 swaps are fairly common for them, as well.
In this month's SCC, there's an article about a 914 with a Subaru EJ20 turbo swap in it.
Crazy fast. Not too much money to do it either.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on February 17, 2007, 08:32:31 PM
In this month's SCC, there's an article about a 914 with a Subaru EJ20 turbo swap in it.
Crazy fast. Not too much money to do it either.
I gotta subscibe to that mag. Hemmings Sports and GT car is a great one too.
SCC being Sport Compact Car? I don't subscribe, but pick up an issue occasionally.
Quote from: The Pirate on February 17, 2007, 08:36:19 PM
SCC being Sport Compact Car?? I don't subscribe, but pick up an issue occasionally.
For some reason I thought about a different magazine, GRM. No, SCC can lick my balls. I hate that magazine, sorry for the confusion.
Quote from: R-inge on February 17, 2007, 08:39:03 PM
For some reason I thought about a different magazine, GRM.? No, SCC can lick my balls.? I hate that magazine, sorry for the confusion.
LOL :ohyeah:
Yeah, GRM is a better mag. SCC aint bad though, its about the only competent magazine that covers that segment.
GRM rocks.
I read Evo, GRM, and GRM's sister mag, Classic Motorsports.
Quote from: NACar on February 17, 2007, 08:18:28 PM
I don't know how you can call an old Prelude a "project car".
Just put a Chevy 350 in a Porsche 914 and get it over with already. :rolleyes:
Well, the definition:
: a planned undertaking: If I can get the Prelude, it will be a project....trust me. This isn't a "buy and drive" car.
Besides, the radiator and interior. I need to update the braking system, change out all fluids. I need to replace: timing belt, plugs, wires, filters. Do some body work (minor) and have it repainted...though I'll probably borrow a booth and do that myself. Once the major mechanical is done, I could at least drive it as needed, just taking it off the road for a few weeks at a time for more extensive repairs.
Hmmm, look at that list, the Prelude might be more than I want to get into. A Beetle restoration would run almost the same amount and be worth more at the finish, though that isn't the reason for the work.
Right now, the important thing for me is to find the right car. Work will not begin right away due to the fact that the house needs some repairs first.
I've got a Duster here. $500 takes it. I need to get rid of it. :ohyeah:
Quote from: NACar on February 17, 2007, 09:59:18 PM
I've got a Duster here. $500 takes it. I need to get rid of it. :ohyeah:
Unless it is a 1960's or 1970's Duster, I don't believe it is worth $500.00 :lol: :devil:
Quote from: JWC on February 17, 2007, 10:03:24 PM
Unless it is a 1960's or 1970's Duster, I don't believe it is worth $500.00 :lol: :devil:
:evildude:
Quote from: JWC on February 17, 2007, 06:07:00 PM
I believe that generally, the number of miles driven is expected to decrease as time goes by. Cars with 100k generally become secondary vehicles in a family, not primary and as such, begin to be driven less. This is the same as with a newer vehicle, say three-four years old as having 100k, definitely a high mileage car.
While you can say that 110k for an 1988 vehicle is below average, it is still high mileage. I wouldn't expect a selling point of a 1988 model car to be, "great car, average miles for this model....250,000 miles."
True enough, but I wouldn't hesitate to call 110k miles low for a car that old.
Of course, you could buy my '61 Falcon project for $900... Runs (though not well), pretty much rust free... hehehehe...
Quote from: NACar on February 17, 2007, 09:59:18 PM
I've got a Duster here. $500 takes it. I need to get rid of it.? ?:ohyeah:
In all due respects, this is what I think of K-Cars (picture taken last night behind my dorm building):
(http://photos-634.ak.facebook.com/ip002/v65/23/13/14228342/n14228342_32492634_3932.jpg)
How'd that happen?
Quote from: Raghavan on February 20, 2007, 01:16:34 PM
How'd that happen?
The guy just parked it, and then his car just shot up in flames. I got there after the firemen had already left (I know, I'm a bad journalist), but from what I saw it looks like it started at the front of the engine, so I'm guessing either something with the battery or radiator. It smelled a fair amount. For a different pic, go to pittnews.com. I'm saving the rest of mine for the next photo competition.
Hey now, I've seen plenty of "good" cars go up in flames. Like a Mustang GT, a Hyundai Elantra, and some fancy looking SUV that was so melted I couldn't tell what it used to be.
You can't dis the K-car til you've pwned one!
I think they're great pieces of crap. I might even get myself an Aries wagon and put a turbo in it someday.
:lol:
Quote from: NACar on February 20, 2007, 01:50:32 PM
Hey now, I've seen plenty of "good" cars go up in flames. Like a Mustang GT, a Hyundai Elantra, and some fancy looking SUV that was so melted I couldn't tell what it used to be.
You can't dis the K-car til you've pwned one!
I think they're great pieces of crap. I might even get myself an Aries wagon and put a turbo in it someday.
:lol:
My dad had a 1993 Dodge Dynasty. That counts.
Hmmm.. 1st gen Miata? The performance possibilities are endless, though they might not be as unique as what you're aiming for.
Awsome mileage for an '88.
Prelude update:
He can't drive, but doesn't want to sell it. His mom is going to talk to him about it.
On the VW front, I've got a couple of leads on a few sedans. There is a listing this week in the local bargain trader for two sedans, one Baja and one Super. I want to stay away from Supers unless the price/condition is right. They are not as easy or as cheap to drop the front end.
Quote from: JWC on February 21, 2007, 04:18:29 PM
On the VW front, I've got a couple of leads on a few sedans. There is a listing this week in the local bargain trader for two sedans, one Baja and one Super. I want to stay away from Supers unless the price/condition is right. They are not as easy or as cheap to drop the front end.
Um, they are EASIER to drop the front ends on.
'72 Super Beetle:
(http://www.supercars.net/pitlane/pics/704077a.jpg)
15 minutes and $0 dollars dropped the front 4" Daily driver, smooth ride.
(http://www.supercars.net/pitlane/pics/570966d.jpg)
Supers are very easy to work on and their suspension makes it easier to add good brakes etc to. I prefer the flat window '71-72, as they tend to look like older Bugs. But you could make a killer road race/autocross style Bug from a round window Super.
Quote from: NACar on February 20, 2007, 01:50:32 PM
Hey now, I've seen plenty of "good" cars go up in flames. Like a Mustang GT, a Hyundai Elantra, and some fancy looking SUV that was so melted I couldn't tell what it used to be.
You can't dis the K-car til you've pwned one!
I think they're great pieces of crap. I might even get myself an Aries wagon and put a turbo in it someday.
:lol:
Check Gus' old website. (http://www.gusmahon.org/html/SLUG.htm) Jeez, just realized he's been gone 5 years now.
What's the difference between a Beetle and a Super Beetle?
Quote from: Raza on February 23, 2007, 09:32:53 AM
What's the difference between a Beetle and a Super Beetle?
Super beetles have a longer nose with Macpherson strut front suspension vs the torsion leaves of the earlier cars. Essentially the suspension is the same as used in the 924, which allows 944 parts to be used fairly easily. The '71-72 Supers have flat front windshields, thus being identical to regular Beetles from the windshield back. '73-up Supers have round windshields with a different dash. the one I posted above was a '72 flat window. This is a '73-up round window:
(http://www.oldbug.com/257%20063.jpg)
Ah, thanks.
Chris is correct about dropping the front.
I forgot about "adjust-a-struts". :lol:
Quote from: ChrisV on February 23, 2007, 08:24:42 AM
Supers are very easy to work on and their suspension makes it easier to add good brakes etc to. I prefer the flat window '71-72, as they tend to look like older Bugs. But you could make a killer road race/autocross style Bug from a round window Super.
In the rust belt states, supers are known for rusting out the upper strut mounts.
As another point- the round windshield Bugs have a slightly better drag coefficient. Probably not enough to matter unless you're trying to set a speed record.
My last Super was a '71. When I replaced the glass in it, the windshield was only $50.00.
I'm going to look at a '75 Super tomorrow. I doubt I'll buy it though. After I got directions to the guy's house, I realized his address isn't too far from the beach. I'm guessing that it will be rust city.
There is a Karman Ghia in the Trader today for less than a grand. Says it was "running when parked" but engine compression was very low. Probably didn't know how to adjust the valves. Unfortunately, it is amost fifty miles from my house. I would also have to borrow the wrecker from the dealership to get it home.
BTW, the reason I got rid of my '71 was because of a rusted out pan head. To repair it would have required a donor car and a lot of welding. That car was from Rochester NY.
Ghia!
I saw a Karmann Ghia with a 996 engine swap. Damn, that was awesome. It's in the engine swap thread.
Just as I thought, rusted out garbage, wouldn't even be worth getting as a parts donor.
Several people had told me of a VW Bug sitting behind a building in a nearby town, so on the way home I drove around over there. Sure, enough, there was a Bug sitting behind a trucking company. I stopped in and found out the owner's name, but he turns out to be out of town until Monday. (He made a run to Florida for strawberries.)
The car itself is almost too perfect. Perfect enough that fresh gas, oil, and a battery, and I could drive it home. Just some light rust in some corners, no rusted out floor pans, no dents or dings, interior is still original and not torn. Has no license plate, so I know the guy isn't driving it. Problem is, there has to be a reason he's holding on to it. Either it is sentimental reasons or he wants more than it is worth. I'd give him 1500.00 for it as it sits, not even knowing if it runs.
The only drawback for me is that it has OEM air conditioning. All that has to come out. Being in that good of shape though, would save me some money right off the top.
What's wrong with the aircon?
Quote from: Raza on February 24, 2007, 12:43:26 PM
What's wrong with the aircon?
Air conditioning on a Bug was a power killer and an engine killer.....
I'm trying not to get too excited over this current find....but it is hard not to get excited. The fact that the interior is in great shape saves me time and money....especially time. I just can't believe that I found a completely intact (original) Bug locally.
I also took a ride around some areas that I had seen Bugs in the past, sitting in people's yards or under shelters. None were to be seen, but what I did see was pretty interesting.
For example:
3 1967-68 Torino fastbacks. (not running)
1 MGB-GT (not running)
4 Datsun 240Z or 260Z's in the very back of one yard. At the front was a custom 240Z sitting next to a Datsun 521 pickup. Couldn't tell how many of these were driveable.
2 Benz 280 sedans that appeared to have been completely restored. I almost stopped at the house just to check them out.
Amazing what is just sitting around farms here collecting rust....well, except for the Mercedes.
Something interesting also happened Friday. An antique dealer came into the dealership and we got to talking. I mentioned that I had this:
(http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/1459/img8035pp3.jpg)
He said it could be worth some money, but it was hard to say just based on my description. So, I took a photo and loaded it on the computer at work Friday. He came by to pick up his truck and I showed him the photo.
His eyes widen, as if he was surprised, and told me that the Camel sign is worth about 1500.00. The license plate, in spite of its damage is about $100. The Camel sign is going to be sold to help finance the project car. Damn thing has been hanging on the office wall for ten years, it may as well reimburse me for that wall space. :lol:
Wow! Too bad you are selling it though, that's a totally cool sign.
Crazy idea, but you can a new Beetle in Mexico for cheap and a used Beetle in Mexico for very cheap. How about a vacation for the wife and a whimsical aquistion while your in the area?
Quote from: Raza on February 25, 2007, 10:27:58 PM
Wow! Too bad you are selling it though, that's a totally cool sign.
It is. The design, colors, and theme are cool as shit. Too bad it's all propaghanda and is behind a dangerous product.
But ironically I'm about to step out and smoke a Camel. Though it's only a light!
Quote from: JWC on February 23, 2007, 04:04:00 PM
Chris is correct about dropping the front.
I forgot about "adjust-a-struts". :lol:
I didn't use adjust a struts. Just cut coils and used rabbit strut inserts. ;)
Good luck with the Bug. It may be the guys' project that he's waiting on money to finish it.
I wouldn't mind another ghia shell to start with, but man, I have enough projects. I need to unload my Falcon so I can start on my Comet... ;)
In a thread a few weeks ago, I mentioned a VW convertible for 1200.00 that looked pretty rough from the photos. The guy bought it for his daughter 12 years ago, but she didn't want it. He drove it into an old barn on his farm and left it there, planning to rebuild it. He wants the space in the barn for something else. It hasn't been run in twelve years, the top is rotten and the seats are rotten. There are spots of rust here and there all over it.
Well, I got to talking to the wife last night...and it hit me. The guy lowered the price to 1k, so unless it ist really, really rough, I could do a cosmetic restoration on the thing and flip it and make a thousand off of it, maybe even more and fiance the next VW. We are traveling tomorrow to see it in person.
I'm going to give it a really good once over and make a decision on it.
(The problem is, if it looks decent and it doesn't take much to get her going and decent looking...I just know I will want to keep it).
Quote from: SaltyDog on February 26, 2007, 03:18:11 AM
Crazy idea, but you can a new Beetle in Mexico for cheap and a used Beetle in Mexico for very cheap.? How about a vacation for the wife and a whimsical aquistion while your in the area?
From what I've heard, the late model Mexican Beetles aren't that snazzy- while the body is still there, a lot of the bits and pieces were cheapened and replaced with chintsy plastic pieces from other VW models.
The last Beetles was hampered by smog and plastic. Still, those Mexican/Brazil Beetles are what kept all the old Bugs going for decades later. Basically, everything underneath was the same, so it becomes a good basis for a project....if I keep it. If not, I'm not putting a great deal of money into it, just enough to make it presentable and saleable.
I'll have to admit, I've always had a fondness for the "Cal-Look" Bugs. No big ass spoilers, visors, or crap like that. Just the little things that clean up the lines. One piece windows, dropped front, Empi wheels, shaved chrome strips,etc.
You know, they sold the Beetle RSi down in Mexico. That's a car I'd buy when I hit that lottery next year.
Quote from: Raza ?link=topic=7766.msg377861#msg377861 date=1172892068
You know, they sold the Beetle RSi down in Mexico.? That's a car I'd buy when I hit that lottery next year.
That was a car I always got a kick out of, but it was so horrendously overpriced I'd beat myself if I ever bought one.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on March 02, 2007, 08:24:34 PM
That was a car I always got a kick out of, but it was so horrendously overpriced I'd beat myself if I ever bought one.
I know, I know. I'd never spend honest money on it. Didn't it cost over 80 grand US? And isn't it mechanically identical to the original R32?
Still, I'd like to get a little more power of it and go hunting for overconfident backwards hat types. I'd love to see the look on their face when a "riced out" Beetle whoops them in a race.
Quote from: Raza ?link=topic=7766.msg377866#msg377866 date=1172892736
I know, I know.? I'd never spend honest money on it.? Didn't it cost over 80 grand US?? And isn't it mechanically identical to the original R32??
?
Yes and yes.
Quote from: Raza on March 02, 2007, 08:32:16 PM
I know, I know. I'd never spend honest money on it. Didn't it cost over 80 grand US? And isn't it mechanically identical to the original R32?
Still, I'd like to get a little more power of it and go hunting for overconfident backwards hat types. I'd love to see the look on their face when a "riced out" Beetle whoops them in a race.
You don't know how to get more power out of anything.
Quote from: 280Z Turbo on March 02, 2007, 09:47:16 PM
You don't know how to get more power out of anything.
Put more money into it? ;)
Quote from: Soup DeVille on March 02, 2007, 10:08:47 PM
Put more money into it? ;)
Nah, he wouldn't even know what to buy. He'd waste all of his money on electric superchargers, throttle body spacers, and cold air intakes. :lol:
Quote from: 280Z Turbo on March 02, 2007, 10:13:44 PM
Nah, he wouldn't even know what to buy. He'd waste all of his money on electric superchargers, throttle body spacers, and cold air intakes. :lol:
Its kinda odd that you mention that because I got this PM....
Raza
View Profile WWW Email Personal Message (Offline)
help!
? Sent to: Danish on: February 25, 2007, 03:13:45 AM ?
Reply with quote Reply Remove this message
I'm thinking of grabbing this for my car.... Thoughts?
http://sunamiturbo.com/
Raza
I'm not sure that the Porsche dealer will install that for him.
I'm going to make an offer on this VW, but not what he is asking. Probably half. The vehicle is salvagable, but there is rust-thru holes around the lower part of the windshield, an important item if you want the windshield to stay on the car at hwy speeds. It doesn't run, but the engine isn't locked up. He says that the fuel pump is not coming on and I know several relatively inexpensive reasons why that would happen and a couple of relatively expensive reasons. The floorboards are gone, rusted clean away.
Good point of the car is that it has never been wrecked.
Quote from: Danish on March 03, 2007, 11:37:08 AM
Its kinda odd that you mention that because I got this PM....
Raza
View Profile WWW Email Personal Message (Offline)
help!
? Sent to: Danish on: February 25, 2007, 03:13:45 AM ?
Reply with quote Reply Remove this message
I'm thinking of grabbing this for my car.... Thoughts?
http://sunamiturbo.com/
Raza
:confused:
Quote from: 280Z Turbo on March 02, 2007, 09:47:16 PM
You don't know how to get more power out of anything.
You're kind of being a dick for no reason.
Quote from: Raza on March 03, 2007, 05:00:56 PM
You're kind of being a dick for no reason.
It happens. :huh:
Quote from: 280Z Turbo on March 03, 2007, 07:57:05 PM
It happens. :huh:
Okay. I can be a dick too, you know.
OMFG!
Now what am I going to do!
I looked at the VW convertible Saturday and made a very low offer, knowing the guy wouldn't take it.
Yesterday, I find out that a friend of mine who has a 1971 Beetle has decided to sell his and I'm the lucky recipient.
Only, the guy with the 'vert, just accepted my offer and he's throwing in a Schwinn ten-speed bike.
My wife is going to have a cow.
Now I own two VW's.
(And six bicycles)
Quote from: JWC on March 06, 2007, 05:23:56 PM
OMFG!
Now what am I going to do!
I looked at the VW convertible Saturday and made a very low offer, knowing the guy wouldn't take it.
Yesterday, I find out that a friend of mine who has a 1971 Beetle has decided to sell his and I'm the lucky recipient.
Only, the guy with the 'vert, just accepted my offer and he's throwing in a Schwinn ten-speed bike.
My wife is going to have a cow.
Now I own two VW's.
(And six bicycles)
Your wife is going to have a cow huh. Well, I'd ask her who she's been sleeping around with. Congrats on the two beetles. Keep an eye on that wife.
Quote from: sparkplug on March 06, 2007, 05:41:45 PM
Your wife is going to have a cow huh. Well, I'd ask her who she's been sleeping around with. Congrats on the two beetles. Keep an eye on that wife.
:lol:
Congrats JWC.... Hopefully your wife won't have a big cow.
I emailed her at work.....hopefully, she'll calm down before she sees me tomorrow.
I hadn't really planned on taking on two projects at the same time, especially a rusty convertible. If nothing else, I can part it out. I just have to keep it hidden in the backyard or the town will tag it and tow it away.
That's classic...two veedubs and 6 bikes...I dig that! :rockon:
The trick is to convince your wife that you can drive both Beetles and ride all six bikes at the same time. No way she can argue with that.
I secured the rollback and driver for tomorrow morning. As long as no one sells a car that needs to be transferred from another dealer, I'm set to pick up the convertible about eight tomorrow morning.
One good thing about working at a dealership is being able to use the wrecker and driver at "no charge". Well, except for buying the driver lunch.
Congrats :rockon:
I love the old Bugs. Post pics!!!
awesome!
Cool! Be sure to post up some pics when you get the cars.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on March 09, 2007, 07:06:56 AM
Congrats :rockon:
I love the old Bugs. Post pics!!!
I second that!
Quote from: ChrisV on March 09, 2007, 09:16:06 AM
I second that!
Never second something that Intrepoo says. :nono:
Well, we're on for tomorrow. I will be taking photos because if this car turns out to be rebuildable, I'm going to want to document it this time. I failed to do that on any of my other cars. Usually, I would take photos of them after they were finished..or in the case of two of them, wrecked.
I'll warn you though, this car is in pretty bad shape. The humid conditions in North Carolina have taken its toll on this poor car in spite of it being locked up in a barn. My concern tomorrow is not just getting it home, but covering it up before the town sees it and wants it removed.
Besides the rear brakes being locked up, it also has one dry-rotted tire that will not hold air. My first investment on it will be finding a tire so I can push it into the backyard. Actually, I might go a get the spare tire from the other VW Beetle I'm buying next week and use it. That's a pretty good idea.
Thanks for the help. :lol:
Quote from: JWC on March 09, 2007, 06:29:28 PM
Well, we're on for tomorrow.? I will be taking photos because if this car turns out to be rebuildable, I'm going to want to document it this time.? I failed to do that on any of my other cars.? Usually, I would take photos of them after they were finished..or in the case of two of them, wrecked.
I'll warn you though, this car is in pretty bad shape.? The humid conditions in North Carolina have taken its toll on this poor car in spite of it being locked up in a barn.? My concern tomorrow is not just getting it home, but covering it up before the town sees it and wants it removed.?
Besides the rear brakes being locked up, it also has one dry-rotted tire that will not hold air.? ?My first investment on it will be finding a tire so I can push it into the backyard.? Actually, I might go a get the spare tire from the other VW Beetle I'm buying next week and use it.? That's a pretty good idea.
Thanks for the help. :lol:
If you need an 87mm slip-in piston set, let me know. :tounge:
Well, it got home safely...almost. I threw the bicycle in the car and broke off the inside rear view mirror. I was going to replace it anyway. Fresh out of the barn. The tractor was the muscle for getting it out. The man to the left is the wrecker driver.
(http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/9531/img7901abb4.jpg)
And, being loaded onto the rollback.
(http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/8023/img7906akh4.jpg)
After getting it home, we literally had to shake it off the wrecker. The left rear tire was flat and I've spent the whole day hammering on the brake drum trying to free up the brake.
I have given it a pretty good once over...and it isn't as bad as I first thought. The worse parts are the floors and the wiring. I hate wiring. I will also have to learn to install a convertible top.
Overall, $500.00 well spent. Not to mention the bicycle was thrown in on the deal.
Can't argue with a free bike! Looks like it will be fun too, I look forward to hearing some progress updates.
Tomorrow is round 2 for the rear brake.
I filled the brake drum with WD-40 and if it doesn't let go tomorrow...it's air chisel time.
I took a picture of the VW's stablemate for the past decade or so. I wouldn't mind having it also, if I could get an original set of Firestone 500 tires. :lol:
(http://img66.imageshack.us/img66/807/img7902amm8.jpg)
Round two...and the VW won.
I did manage to peel back the backing plate enough to peek inside. Seems someone drove the car with the brakes metal-to-metal and the shoes are welded onto the drum.
It will have to sit under a car cover until I get the other Bug and tow/drag it to the workshop, then remove the axle assembly.
This project car is officially on hold.
The 1971 will have to come first.
I saw a '71 Super Bug for $1200 on Craiglist that actually runs and has a little bit of rust. :lol:
Depending on the condition of the EJ18 after I see my car again, I'd probably be able to ship it out for the cost of shipping if you ever wanted to make a hotrod 110 hp Beetle. They do fit, and they are really fast when put into Bugs.
Best case scenario: blown head gasket
Worst case scenario: cracked engine block
Most likely what happened: thrown rod
If you're interested for a rebuild, I'll check on the engine when I get my car back in the near future and I'll check it out in May when I'm home for the summer.
cool idea with the subie engine, and I've seen some fast conversions, but it'd cost less to build a 150 hp Bug engine from the 1600 DP. No adaptors and mounts, and no running lines and cutting holes for a radiator. Especially if you also have to rebuild the subie engine.
Quote from: ChrisV on March 13, 2007, 07:56:59 AM
cool idea with the subie engine, and I've seen some fast conversions, but it'd cost less to build a 150 hp Bug engine from the 1600 DP. No adaptors and mounts, and no running lines and cutting holes for a radiator. Especially if you also have to rebuild the subie engine.
That's why that conversion makes more sense when you use one of the turbocharged Subie engines for well over 300 HP.
There are enough performance parts for air-cooled VW that going through the trouble of converting it to a water cooled Suburu wouldn't be worth the effort.
Of course, now that I have found and made agreements on two VW's, I have since found two more. One in a salvage yard that doesn't have a speck of rust on it.
At least the one I haven't picked up yet, while needing some minor body work...runs, has never been wrecked, and though faded, has never been resprayed.
Wow... that is awesome. Keep us posted!
Quote from: 280Z Turbo on March 02, 2007, 10:13:44 PM
Nah, he wouldn't even know what to buy. He'd waste all of his money on electric superchargers, throttle body spacers, and cold air intakes. :lol:
I had never heard (or imagined) an electric supercharger...I thought this was purely a joke.
Then, I found one on Ebay. :confused: :rolleyes:
Quote from: JWC on March 16, 2007, 06:55:33 PM
I had never heard (or imagined) an electric supercharger...I thought this was purely a joke.
Then, I found one on Ebay. :confused: :rolleyes:
So does it run off the battery or something?
http://www.electricsupercharger.com/
Wow, 15HP... :rolleyes:
I'd just get a new intake or something cheaper.
Quote from: Raghavan on March 16, 2007, 08:34:27 PM
Wow, 15HP... :rolleyes:
I'd just get a new intake or something cheaper.
A new intake isn't going to give you 15hp :rolleyes:, i still wouldn't buy one.
Just a quick update.
Got home from work this evening and finally got the rear brake free on the convertible. It now resides next to the studio awaiting photos (before shots) and then dismantling. Floors will go in first to keep snakes and squirrels out of it. Once a primary need list is made, I'll pick up the '71 sedan to the minor work it needs and then move the 'vert to the "work" area.
BTW, after struggling off and on with that brake for 2 1/2 to 3 weeks, it took less than an hour to finally get it loose. I attacked it from the rear. Heavy duty drill through side of the backing plate to cut the hold-down hardwar loose and a few solid smacks with the hammer to break the rust free.
Turned out to be a piece of cake....after I relaxed and devised an attack plan.
dynamite would have took it off.
Man, I gotta get time and money to buy a Bug...
Maybe next decade.
Well, this really pisses me off.
One of the local LEO's came by today to pick up his patrol car after we serviced it. He overhead myself and a couple of other people talking about old cars. He mentioned that he noticed the VW was out of my yard. I told him I was rushing to get it rolling before they came along and tagged it, but now it was in the back yard under a cover until I could get around to restoring it.
Turns out, it doesn't matter. The town ordinance states that no "inoperable" car can be stored, unless at a garage, within the city limits. Back, front, or side yard...doesn't matter. It has to be stored inside and, unfortunately, I converted my garage into a photo studio.
I told him it was under a car cover, in my back yard, and behind a gate. He said that didn't matter. The penalty is towing the car away....more on that later.
I asked him, what if the gate is padlocked. That, he says is different. They can't go through a locked gate...that would constitute breaking and entering.
Anyway, I got home, went on the town's website and looked up ordinances (something I should have done before, I know.) Seems that the ordinance only allows a car to be "inoperable" for a period of twenty four hours. After reading almost every section of the town's ordinances....there isn't any mention of what the penaly is. No mention of fines or of towing the car away...it just says you can't do it.
You talk about some vaguely written crap.
So, I'm putting a padlock on the side gate. :lol: If they don't like that...I'm going to "enclose" my carport with some lattice, put a half gate on it and put the VW "inside".
Man, I'm having a hellava week with authority figures.
This is the only thing the ordinance says:
"Residential Districts. Only vehicles intended for personal use shall be parked or
stored on any property in a residentially zoned district, excluding commercial
vehicles driven to and from a place of employment by an employee. No junked/
inoperative motor vehicle or nuisance vehicle shall be permitted to be parked or
stored out of doors longer than twenty-four (24) hours."
So the city tells you what you can and can't do within your own back yard??
Quote from: Raghavan on March 28, 2007, 05:18:07 PM
So the city tells you what you can and can't do within your own back yard??
Yep...that'a about the size of it.
I know you can't fight city hall...........but, I'm a firm believer that you can be creative and get around certain laws. This is one I'm going to start working on. Even if I decide not to keep the car, it is a matter of principle now.
Quote from: JWC on March 28, 2007, 05:36:36 PM
Yep...that'a about the size of it.
I know you can't fight city hall...........but, I'm? a firm believer that you can be creative and get around certain laws.? This is one I'm going to start working on.? Even if I decide not to keep the car, it is a matter of principle now.
As long as its out of sight from the front yard, and your neighbors aren't unbearable pricks, you really shouldn't have much of a concern.
Quote from: JWC on March 16, 2007, 06:55:33 PM
I had never heard (or imagined) an electric supercharger...I thought this was purely a joke.
Then, I found one on Ebay. :confused: :rolleyes:
There has been at least one company (Thomas Knight http://www.boosthead.com/ that made genuine universal electric supercharger kits. Of course, they aren't $30 on E-bay, more like $1600+.
They actually took 3 starter motors and hooked them up to a gear box to drive a roots-supercharger. A couple of extra car batteries mounted in the trunk let it run for 20 seconds or something until they needed to recharge via the alternator. The kits even came with proper intake piping to divert air around the supercharger when it was not being used.
Here's one of the originals:
(http://www.turbomagazine.com/tech/0406tur_knight02_z.jpg)
Now that I visit the website again, I can't seem to find the roots supercharger, rather a centrifugal one with just one starter motor on it.? :huh:
Quote from: Soup DeVille on March 28, 2007, 06:09:35 PM
As long as its out of sight from the front yard, and your neighbors aren't unbearable pricks, you really shouldn't have much of a concern.
That's what I'm thinking. I do have one neighbor that can be a prick, the one behind me, but I have a privacy fence between his property and mine...he can't see much of anything.
The ordinance does say "operable".
Doesn't say it has to be street legal, licensed, or insured. Technically, it doesn't specify what has to be "operable", though I'm sure they will try to pin it down to the engine if a problem developed.
I have to photograph bicycle races this weekend, but I'm thinking that I might spend an hour or so seeing what is keeping the electric fuel pump from coming on. Shouldn't matter how it runs...as long as it cranks and runs if that is all the town needs to see.
That is vaguely written. If you buy a new vehicle and the next day it won't crank. Then two days later they can tow it away and crush it. hmm....
Haha, you're fine. Just lock the gate. We've got a situation like that in my town...you're only allowed one unlisenced vehicle or boat in your yard. We have SEVEN boats in ours. But, theres no provision for what they can do about it, they just tell you you cant do it! Idiots...
I bet most places have ordinances like that. And I bet they're only invoked when there's a specific issue. Don't want rednecks and their fifteen junker cars in the front yard next door, eh? ;)
Check with SEMA legal department, they tend to have ways of fighting ordinances like that for hobbyists. Many states now specifically have provisions for collectors and hobbyists to protect them from ordinances like that. Others are trying to kill hobbyist loopholes. Damn busybodies.
http://www.semasan.com/main/main.aspx?ID=/content/SEMASANcom/HomePage
Thanks Chris. I didn't realize there was any help in this area. For cycling, where municipalities pass stupid bicycle restricting laws, there are organization like, League of American Bicyclists, that will start a campaign to fight the law. Had no idea that there was something similar for autos.
Thanks to Chris, I went from checking SEMA's site to state ordinances. Seems the state says no vehicle can be removed from private property, if the owner objects to its removal. HAH! Also, since I haven't trimmed my hedges (and now I'm not) all I have to do according to the state ordinance is shield the vehicle from view "of someone standing outside my property line".
So, thanks to the town, my overgrown azaleas will remain...overgrown and that cuts down on my yard work for the year. I do have to get some wood strips to thread through the wire fence gate. Piece of cake.
Just came back from a friend's house. Bought his 1971 VW Beetle sedan (standard not Super Beetle).
Now I have two VW's in the yard.
At least this one runs.
Lol! That's how it is with Bugs. You get one, they multiply. That's why I've had so many. It took real work to end up with none, as they kept showing up. I actually had to move to the east coast to stop acquiring them (when I moved I got rid of 2 bugs, a Ghia, and a bus...)
...and I get to work this morning, co-worker goes online to the local classifieds and listed there is a pristine 1963, converted to 12v already for 4500 or best offer.
Couldn't find one three weeks ago, now, indeed, they are multiplying.
Dude, you sound like me with small boats...
Well, I've been driving the 1971 Beetle sedan around making notes of things to fix. Long list so far.
They include:
Transmission mount
Clutch cable
Left rear tail lamp socket.
Distributor
Carburetor rebuild.
Valve adjustment
Brake adjustment
Shift lever bushing and quick shift kit.
Turn signal switch.
Lube from beam.
Adjust front wheel bearings.
Replace muffler.
You wouldn't believe that 'redo' list.
To give you an idea:
new dash pad
new seats
repair dents and repaint
new wheels and tires
drop front end by two inches/maybe rear by one.
new outside mirror
new inside mirror
new dome lamp and modify one for use on the passenger side.
new glove box
new stereo and speakers (including from mounting kits and rear package shelf kit.)
do away with the air pressure windshield washer system and cut in an electric washer system
new running boards
Euro style tail lamps
shave the turn signals off the top of the fenders.
three way headlamp assemblies (these lamps incorporate turn signals, headlamp, and driving/fog lamps into one assembly).
Sounds like a good time!
I would love to do this sometime.
Quote from: R-inge on April 16, 2007, 07:34:38 PM
Sounds like a good time!
I would love to do this sometime.
I enjoy it and VW's tend to be economical to customize. That's just a partial list. You should see the real list. I'm even considering finding a good power seat track to mount the seats to for a little more "adjustability".
It is amazing to me what I came up with to upgrade. The seat belts are non-retractable, tyou just hang them.on a hook when you unlatch them, quaint, but I'll get retractables from a VW supply shop. Plus, I'll install rear belts with retractors. Easy to do, since federal law mandated in 1968 that all cars available in the US have rear seat belt shoulder harnesses as an option. All the bolt holes are already there.
I love it when a plan comes together.
Sounds like you got some work ahead of you.
Well, the plan is complicated by time and weather. It is about to be summer and summers in NC are miserable. For driveability reasons, I have to rebuild the carb, replace the distributor, and the transmission mount before I do any body or interior work. More than likely, instead of having this car exactly the way I want it by September, it will be more like December. Especially since I will probably have to paint it myself.
How much do you expect to spend by the end? I've been considering a Bug as a cheap car to fix up and have fun with...
Psilos, I want to upgrade this car to make it reliable and comfortable. I'll be spending a lot on it. The last list I made came to a little over $4,000 including a turn-key engine (engine price didn't include shipping). I could spend as little as 1500.00 since this car runs. This is for no outside labor, I would be doing everything myself. I'll have a lot more into this car than it would be worth, but that is the price you have to pay...if you want to play.
For basic upgrading, I'd suggest front disc brake kit, better seats (pick up a set from a salvage yard). If you find a turn-key Beetle, they are pretty reliable from the get-go. If you want to go that route, keep an eye out on craigslist or keep an eye on the classifed section of thesamba.com
My initial idea is to find something that runs pretty well and doesn't need anything. I'd hope to make it something of a driving project, while I replaced bits that suck, upgraded, and modified. I'd hope, in the end, to have a rust-free, lowered/otherwise suspension modified, faster than stock (and better stopping-- drums are less good!) car with a pretty nice(ish... must be practical) interior and paint job (that I'd be willing to do myself). I'd expect to do all my own work, unless I got in way over my head. Adverts around here seem to suggest that the Beetle that runs pretty well and doesn't need anything would cost about $1000, maybe a touch less.
I'm not sure where you live, but unless you're in the southwest, rust is the biggest culprit for expensive repairs on a Beetle. Check the floorpans and wheelhouses for rot. A rusted out rear floor underneath the battery is a given and expected. Fortunately, rear floor/battery tray sections are easy to replace and cheap.
Disc brake kits are readily available and not too expensive. There are cheap ways to lower a Beetle, but I'll spend the money and get a narrowed drop front beam.
Where Psilos is at, Bugs are a dime a dozen, Seriously. If he doesn't bite on the first thing that shows up, he could have a nice, rust free runner for like $500.
be willing to drive a bit, though, as they are all over the place.
None of these cost me more than $2000 to build including purchase price:
(http://www.supercars.net/pitlane/pics/570966b.jpg)
(http://www.supercars.net/pitlane/pics/570966c.jpg)
(http://www.supercars.net/pitlane/pics/626076d.jpg)
(http://www.supercars.net/pitlane/pics/704077a.jpg)
None were perfect, but all were cool drivers.
many of my 30 or so Bugs were picked up like this:
(http://www.supercars.net/pitlane/pics/626076a.jpg)
for about $100-200. Dropped in good used, stock engines, cleaned up with paint and chrome tin. Put on new bumpers, new rubber all around (windows, welting, seals at lights, etc) new seat covers if necessary, lowering, used wheels and tires, and custom paint. usually $700-1000 for all the replacement parts, then another $200-500 for paint materials.
Yes, if you want perfection, you can spend silly amounts of money on them, just like any car. I've seen ones that have upwards of $20-30k into them. But for fun driver/projects, they are dirt cheap.
The 4k figure included sewfine seats, which I've changed my mind about. I'll go to a salvage yard for good pair of used seats. So, that figure should be adjust down about 500-600.
I like that blue and white on the bottom, there, Chris.
I suppose there are a ton of on- and off-line resources for Bug knowledge and parts, and I suppose that someday when I really get serious (end of summer, here's to hoping!) I'll find them.
What are you hoping for the end product to be, any specific goal? There aren't many beetles around here.. btw, I ride a Demo8 haha, you? ;)
A mild custom, sort of like those Chirs posted. I don't want anything too radical engine wise, I want it to remain easy to maintain and reliable. The last photo in Chris' post, is close to what I want the paint to be, except yellow and white.
Mainly a daily driver, though I usually ride a bicycle to work, that is comfortable, reliable and unique.
I have been inspired! I'm going to chase up a '63 Thunderbird and make a project of it.
What do you think - $100? $200?
Quote from: omicron on April 19, 2007, 09:29:45 AM
I have been inspired! I'm going to chase up a '63 Thunderbird and make a project of it.
What do you think - $100? $200?
The dealership's owner bought a 62 Tbird convertible last summer. Needed minor work. Price was reportedly 22,000 dollars.
I'm looking at a light blue with white top 1962 T/bird in for a brake problem. Don't ask, the car's owner won't sell it. He also owns a white one and a black one. All convertibles.
(PS, when I said I was looking at it, I meant literally. It is in bay 4 across from my desk)
Well, F*$K.
There is an old trick of finding TDC for #1 cylinder on a VW by sticking a pencil down the spark plug hole.
Works great if you take the car out of gear first. Leaving the car in gear and rocking the engine back and forth, evidently, leads to disaster. The pencil was too short, the car moved and knocked the pencil from fingers and now is lost down the cylinder.
Gotta pull the engine and head.
Dammit!
:banghead:
After I calmed down, I decided that this is a prime opportunity to do some engine work, minor stuff, that is easier when the engine is out. Just have to make the best of a really, really bonehead, rookie, stupid mistake.
Haha! That sounds like the kind of mistake I would make. At least you didn't send another pencil down there to try and bring it back up.
That's definitely something I would do.
Adjusting valves on a VW is done as often as changing the oil. It isn't like I haven't done this before. I just can't believe I pulled such a stupid mistake.
The only thing I can say in my defense is I was rushing to get it done by this afternoon, because it is my daughter's sixteenth Bday party and I'm cooking.
This is what happens when you try to rush and cuts corners. Now, I have to pay with even more time.
Well engine runs perfect...except the choke doesn't work. Not a big deal this time of year. I'll order one before fall sets in.
Daughter took this shot last weekend.
(http://img77.imageshack.us/img77/1102/jwcurry103asj3.jpg)
Next phase is rust abatement. Then interior.
This weekend, unfortunately, is wrapping up some photos for several clients and working on the sunroom.
THat Beetle looks clean...
Thanks it's fairly clean. Only a couple of minor dents and that rust spot on the front fender. Original paint, never been wrecked. I think it was a pretty good find.
The ideal is for it to look similar to this in about a year.
(http://img236.imageshack.us/img236/5107/bugzamplerh7.jpg)
That's gonna look great!
Quote from: JWC on May 03, 2007, 06:45:09 PM
Thanks it's fairly clean. Only a couple of minor dents and that rust spot on the front fender. Original paint, never been wrecked. I think it was a pretty good find.
The ideal is for it to look similar to this in about a year.
(http://img236.imageshack.us/img236/5107/bugzamplerh7.jpg)
No Porsche wheels?
No, I've always preferred the BRMs.
Very cool. You gonna put the smaller taillights on it? Made my '72 Super Beetle look like a '60s version doing that.
(http://www.supercars.net/pitlane/pics/570966d.jpg)
Yeah, I'm going with the early style tail lamps. I was going "cal" with the front, but decided to use the smaller turn signals for fenders also.
Quote from: JWC on April 21, 2007, 09:40:00 AM
Well, F*$K.
There is an old trick of finding TDC for #1 cylinder on a VW by sticking a pencil down the spark plug hole.
Works great if you take the car out of gear first. Leaving the car in gear and rocking the engine back and forth, evidently, leads to disaster. The pencil was too short, the car moved and knocked the pencil from fingers and now is lost down the cylinder.
Gotta pull the engine and head.
Dammit!
:banghead:
After I calmed down, I decided that this is a prime opportunity to do some engine work, minor stuff, that is easier when the engine is out. Just have to make the best of a really, really bonehead, rookie, stupid mistake.
I'd try hooking a vacuum cleaner up to the spark plug hole.
I've done something similar on my Z except I was smart enough to use a dipstick! :ohyeah:
Thanks, but it now runs fine. To do either of those two things would require removing the engine anyway...the clearance is that tight.
I spent a couple of hours on the VW this morning. Removed bumper and runnings boards...with the running boards out of the way, more problems presented themselves. So, long story short, the sedan will get a quickie comestic dress-up. The convertible will move to the front of the line.
I also changed the title of this thread since there is no longer a maybe.
just read through all of this.(yes, i have no life)
what are these three-way headlights you speak of? any pics?
i have a friend who has a beetle that might be interested.
Well, I thought I book marked the page. I was considering shaving the turn signals off the top of the fenders, but I want to use early blade style bumpers on my 1971, no integrated T/Signals in the bumper. Hella makes a head lamp, round, that incorporates the turn signal into the headlamp unit.
Check local laws, many require some kind of side marker lamp and those are part of the original turn signal assembly. What I thought would be cool is to use European style side marker lamps just between the front fenders and the doors, on the side panel. Like those on a Saab and Volvo.
Quote from: JWC on May 12, 2007, 03:09:18 PM
Well, I thought I book marked the page. I was considering shaving the turn signals off the top of the fenders, but I want to use early blade style bumpers on my 1971, no integrated T/Signals in the bumper. Hella makes a head lamp, round, that incorporates the turn signal into the headlamp unit.
Check local laws, many require some kind of side marker lamp and those are part of the original turn signal assembly. What I thought would be cool is to use European style side marker lamps just between the front fenders and the doors, on the side panel. Like those on a Saab and Volvo.
the car is euro spec, so it has the markers in front of the doors.
another of my friends is trying to make a 10 second beetle(started off with a super sedan, i can't wait)
Quote from: JWC on May 12, 2007, 03:09:18 PM
Well, I thought I book marked the page. I was considering shaving the turn signals off the top of the fenders, but I want to use early blade style bumpers on my 1971, no integrated T/Signals in the bumper. Hella makes a head lamp, round, that incorporates the turn signal into the headlamp unit.
Check local laws, many require some kind of side marker lamp and those are part of the original turn signal assembly. What I thought would be cool is to use European style side marker lamps just between the front fenders and the doors, on the side panel. Like those on a Saab and Volvo.
LOL THERE ARE NO LAUZ IN INDIA F00.
Quote from: Raghavan on May 12, 2007, 03:16:24 PM
LOL THERE ARE NO LAUZ IN INDIA F00.
actually, the laws are not very kind to classic cars here. :(
Didn't know where he was from.
Funny, he doesn't write with an accent. :huh:
Quote from: JWC on May 12, 2007, 04:33:07 PM
Funny, he doesn't write with an accent. :huh:
:lol: :lol:
Photos of the project car, less bumpers and running boards.
(http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/4923/img9704sy0.jpg)
(http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/5036/img9705fx6.jpg)
(http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/7392/img9707mw3.jpg)
(http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/87/img9708xg3.jpg)
(http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/9881/img9711mf3.jpg)
Wow, that's actually in not bad shape!
yeah, the paint looks nice too.
The inside looks really good, save for the floor. Thinking of doing any kind of a 70s-vintage Porsche engine swap?
Overall, the car has the amount of wear you would expect from a 36 year old car that has never seen anything other than maintenance. That was the appeal of this car. It was bought originally at the local VW dealer, except for a stint at NC State, it remained in the same town. Never wrecked, never repainted. Technically, I'm the fourth owner. The original owner bought it for his daughter to go to NC State, then he took it over when she bought a new car, then it was sold to a friend of mine, then sold to me.
If I was not so particular about my vehicles, I would replace the carpet (about 60.00), clean the engine and replace the muffler (about 75.00), repaint it myself, (about 100.00), and replace the tires (250.00). Then, just drive it. But, if I'm going through all the work of taking out all the dents and repairing the rust areas, I may as well go ahead and do the rest of the car correctly as well.
That's in vastly better shape than most of my project Beetles. Can't wait to see how both of them turn out...
You can buy early fenders that don't have the turn signal holes in them already. That would allow you to use the early headlight assemblies that have a parking light in them (that is easy to swap out for a parking light/turn signal assembly). the blade bumpers that you are looking to use are the pre '68 versions, right? IIRC you'll have to make custom bumper brackets for them, as they normally mount from inside the apron, rather than through the fenders like the later bumpers do. A good compromise are the ribbed Briz bumpers that I used on a couple customer cars.
I'm trying to figure out how I missed this thread before... I haven't read it all yet though....
A friend of mine from College has been restoring one as well. He has documented his progress here:
http://www2.bugs78.ca:8830/?page_id=196
All his links seem to be down at the moment. He had a lot of pictures, so I assume he will be fixing those in time. Just thought a few of you might be interested in this one as well.
So wait, is there still a pencil in your cylinder?
Quote from: Tave on May 14, 2007, 12:00:32 PM
So wait, is there still a pencil in your cylinder?
Naw, that crisis passed without any major incident (read: damage). I just got PO'd with the whole problem and cranked the engine over by hand several times. There was a wood crunching noise, but the engine spit and sputtered, misfired for about two or threee minutes and leveled out.
I did this, against my better judgement, but on the advice of some members on a VW aircooled forum. Not something I would do with any other engine design or manufacturer.
That's a strange engine deposit to be left with.
Lemmie know when you need parts JWC...Car(s) looks to have potential!
Heres my project as of last week:
(http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/351640.jpg)
(http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/351641.jpg)
(http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/351637.jpg)
2 1/2" custom body lift
1600 DP engine
70' IRS pan.
Potential to make thousands smile!
Launch date...End of May (hopefully)
She looks better already now that I applied the roll on bedliner to the floor/sides and installed all the lights (except headlights).
Just fabricated/installed the rear seat support too.Dont want someone to jump in back and the body breaks/cracks!
Great looking project. How long have you been working on it? BTW, are you still working at a dealership? I noticed you appear to be involved with the VW shop in Elizabeth City. (Saw the ads on Samba).
At least I know where to pick up used parts if needed.
How long have I been working on it? Hard to say.I spent a day or half day a week since January doing the bodywork.
Ive been more intently putting it together since it was painted last week.I bought it with the pan already cut,new floors,brakes all new and lines run,etc.But the body needed ALOT of help.With the bodywork done,its basically assembly with a little fab work here and there (custom brackets,etc)The motors long built and in the shop waiting to go in.And ive got abut 99% of the parts I need together now that my flip top? fuel cap arrived.
Heres some advise for any buggy builder.If you cant find a body in nice shape already,just shell out the $1300 or so for a new one already painted!
I'll probably have 60 hours in this thing total.Maybe 70.
I HATE BODYWORK NOW
As for me? Yeah im still at the dealership.Joes a friend of mine and I help out at his shop and handle his internet sales.
In return I get any used part I need and a little green depending on the deal. That reminds me..Theres some 3 point belts in a VW Fox with my name all over them!
Again gimmie a call if you need somthing.I'll hook you up.
BTW..Heres what she looked like in January.Andthis wasafter I started some repairs!
(http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/326262.jpg)
Geez, hard to believe that's the same car.
I had my eye on a dune buggy. It is underneath a tobacco barn shelter and has been sitting for at least three years. The farmer who used around the farm passed away and his son owns it now, but doesn't know what to do with it. He just doesn't want to sell it. I hate seeing a car go to waste, any car. Well, almost any car...even a Chevette has parts that can be used on a hot rod.
Well the nice thing about fiberglass is it doesnt rust out.
The biggest problems with mine was cleaning up 30 years of other peoples quick fixes.
I found bondo on the passenger side that never cured!
Theres a green one in Elizabeth City for sale on Ebay.I talked to the guy who owns it for a friend.Its been sitting 15 years,but is complete and was kept indoors..(Or at least a shed or somthing).Body looks real good and the guy said it had no cracks.Its not a Manx or a Manx clone but its a good looking design.Looks kind of like a Ocelot or maybe a Clamdigger.
The bidding started at $1500 and no one has bid yet.
It would be nice if that guy would just sell that one to you.According to the Samba community,buggies are making a comeback.
Pick up a Carolina Bargain Trader and look in there cover to cover (even the motorcycle section).Ive seen a few in there in various conditions before.Alot of them are closer to you than me.
Such a beautiful car! :rockon:
Yeah..His Veedubs do look good.
Ive never owned a regular Bug myself.
Well, tomorrow I'm off to the salvage yard to check out seat options. I'm looking for Civic-style seats, non-power of course. Civic seats tend to be the right width for a Beetle, but others fit also.
I'm not buying any interior parts until I settle on the seats, but I'm leaning toward gray or charcoal. Those two colors would be easy to match or compliment another color. Say a dark gray with light gray door panels and headliner.
Any suggestions on what would be a good choice for durability, comfort, and style?
Quote from: JWC on June 01, 2007, 07:42:27 PM
Well, tomorrow I'm off to the salvage yard to check out seat options.? I'm looking for Civic-style seats, non-power of course.? Civic seats tend to be the right width for a Beetle, but others fit also.
I'm not buying any interior parts until I settle on the seats, but I'm leaning toward gray or charcoal.? Those two colors would be easy to match or compliment another color.? Say a dark gray with light gray door panels and headliner.
Any suggestions on what would be a good choice for durability, comfort, and style??
The '02-'05 Civic Si seats would work very well: all of them were gray in the center and black on the sides and back with red accents, and were very supportive. Also a lot of people replaced the stock seats with racing (ricing?) type Sparcos or similar, so stock seats on eBay are pretty easy to find.
edit: oh, hey, here's a pair: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Honda-Civic-Si-Front-Seats-Driver-and-Passenger_W0QQitemZ150127961392QQihZ005QQcategoryZ33701QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Quote from: Soup DeVille on June 01, 2007, 08:27:05 PM
The '02-'05 Civic Si seats would work very well: all of them were gray in the center and black on the sides and back with red accents, and were very supportive. Also a lot of people replaced the stock seats with racing (ricing?) type Sparcos or similar, so stock seats on eBay are pretty easy to find.
edit: oh, hey, here's a pair: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Honda-Civic-Si-Front-Seats-Driver-and-Passenger_W0QQitemZ150127961392QQihZ005QQcategoryZ33701QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Nice seats, but $300? I talked to the salvage yard owner yesterday and he said any pair of seats out there, if they are in good shape are $40.
Which reminds me. The boyfriend of my daughter's best friend has a Civic Si, 2006. The seats look very close to those. He said that they ran $6000...special edition for the Civic Si.
When he said that I just walked away.
Quote from: JWC on June 01, 2007, 08:43:42 PM
Nice seats, but $300?? I talked to the salvage yard owner yesterday and he said any pair of seats out there, if they are in good shape are $40.
Which reminds me.? The boyfriend of my daughter's best friend has a Civic Si, 2006.? The seats look very close to those. He said that they ran $6000...special edition for the Civic Si.?
When he said that I just walked away.
Hmmm, $6000 seats in a $19000 car, huh? Sounds pretty spiffy to me.
And yeah: 'm sure you can find cheaper ones: that was just an example for what I was thinking of.
I think I found the best, if not perfect seats. Two-tone gray, lumbar, reclines, and tilts forward for access to the back seat. They are currently in a Eclipse, 1994 model. Though the car odometer shows 174,000 miles, the seats are in really good shape. The do need a good cleaning. The windshield and roof are damaged on the passenger side and appear to be leaking.
I couldn't pull them today, I have to go give blood. I talked to the owner of the yard, I know him through work, and he said he'd keep an eye on them and call me if someone
Nice find!
Are you going to reupholster the seats?
Not if they clean up. The seats are in really good shape. I was really surpised when I checked the VIN for the model year. I saw the car and checked the seats before I checked the model year. I thought the car was a lot newer based on the interior's condition.
Before I spend a couple of hundred bucks on reupholstery, I'll just toss these (or sell them on Craigslist) and try again. At $40/pr, I'm not afraid to experiment.
I"m trying to determine if there is anyway to make the rear seat and back fit into the VW, that would be nice.
Quote from: JWC on June 02, 2007, 04:19:04 PM
Not if they clean up. The seats are in really good shape. I was really surpised when I checked the VIN for the model year. I saw the car and checked the seats before I checked the model year. I thought the car was a lot newer based on the interior's condition.
Before I spend a couple of hundred bucks on reupholstery, I'll just toss these (or sell them on Craigslist) and try again. At $40/pr, I'm not afraid to experiment.
I"m trying to determine if there is anyway to make the rear seat and back fit into the VW, that would be nice.
I'd love to get Integra seats or Miata seats for the Z someday. My vinyl looks bad and is cracked. Aren't DSM seats a little low for a Beetle. I'd look at Saab 9000 or Ford Focus seats if those don't work.
I'd like to find a replacement backseat for the Z as well, but it's so narrow and deep dished that I doubt that will ever happen.
A Beetle should be just a flat bench in the back, right? That shouldn't be hard.
My concern for the rear seat and back are width. Depth is going to be close because there is a heck of a bolster at the front part of the rear seat.
I'm thinking of dismantling the original seats and using the base assembly as the starting point for attaching the DSM seats.
I bought a pair of "universal" seats from a ad in Samba.The tracks are only about 13 inches wide and fit in my buggy perfectly..So we know they work in a Bug too.They have sliders built in but DO NOT recline.
Height is comparable to stock seats and they are $150 delivered for the pair.
Color is black cloth.
Well, I picked up the front and rear seats from the Eclipse this morning. Still hard to believe how clean they are. I picked up the rear sections because he only wanted $10 more for the whole shebang. I'm only out ten bucks if they don't work and....maybe I can make them into a unique love seat for the office. :lol:
I was out there at 8:30 when the yard opened and was totally drenched in sweat in ten minutes. It got really hot, really fast. Fortunate also that the salvage yard owner knows me (his rollback is a '03 F450) and let me drive my Volvo to the back of the yard instead of having to walk the seats out.
Now I can wrap up the interior work and order the door panels and carpet.
Trial fitted the front and rear seats. The rear seats are actually going to work.
Sweet. Post pics J.
Ladies and gentleman..We have hood and electrical!
(http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/359597.jpg%3Cbr%20/%3E)
Well, here are the seats, not bolted in at the moment. I've got to make some measurements and design brackets for them. This is just set up to get an idea of fit. The rear is probably going to be the hardest to come up with a system that allows the seat backs to fold flat. I propped them up though and gave them a trial "sit". I wouldn't mind riding in back, they're comfy.
(http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/4494/img8180etp5.jpg)
(http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/5521/img8177wet0.jpg)
Are you going to reupholster the seats or anything? They look pretty clean but I'm personally not a huge fan of the color. I don't know how much upholstery costs though (or if you do it yourself).
Quote from: BimmerM3 on June 17, 2007, 11:18:29 PM
Are you going to reupholster the seats or anything? They look pretty clean but I'm personally not a huge fan of the color. I don't know how much upholstery costs though (or if you do it yourself).
Upholstery or re-upholstery, usually runs about 300400 per seat.
Actually, I was looking for black or gray, and will keep the seats this two tone, since the interior is going to be a tu-tone gray. Choices today, usually run tan, black, or gray for interiors. Yellow with tan interior is just too predictable and hard to match.
The seats are also about two shades darker than they appear in the photo.
the seats don't seem to match the exterior colour of the car very well, are you repainting it or are you going to repair the current paint?
Quote from: heelntoe on June 18, 2007, 04:27:44 AM
the seats don't seem to match the exterior colour of the car very well, are you repainting it or are you going to repair the current paint?
Quote from: JWC on May 03, 2007, 06:45:09 PM
Thanks it's fairly clean. Only a couple of minor dents and that rust spot on the front fender. Original paint, never been wrecked. I think it was a pretty good find.
The ideal is for it to look similar to this in about a year.
(http://img236.imageshack.us/img236/5107/bugzamplerh7.jpg)
Well...this project just got delayed a couple of months. Which in a way is good, but personally disappointing. I had cleared my schedule for July to work on this car and have it presentable by August, with the only thing remaining to be done would be the engine. I've spent three days fielding phone calls about wedding photography and since these are people that have seen my wedding albums and were referred by past clients...I couldn't say no.
When I get back into it, I'll post the updates.
(The good part is the money I'll be making; pays for another camera, case, flash, and lens.) :lol:
Good score on the seats!!! Those are gonna look great in there. Can't wait to see them mounted. You gonna go with grey door panels and carpet, too?
Yep, I'm going to do a two tone gray for the headliner, door panels, and carpeting. The dash pad is cracked along the top, not too bad, but enough that I'm going to replace it. As an option, I am considering leaving the vinyl pad off and clean/spray the dash to match the yellow of the exterior and doors, with gray for the instrument panels and glove box door. If I don't like it, I can always go back to the vinyl pad.
Quote from: JWC on June 21, 2007, 04:05:20 PM
Yep, I'm going to do a two tone gray for the headliner, door panels, and carpeting. The dash pad is cracked along the top, not too bad, but enough that I'm going to replace it. As an option, I am considering leaving the vinyl pad off and clean/spray the dash to match the yellow of the exterior and doors, with gray for the instrument panels and glove box door. If I don't like it, I can always go back to the vinyl pad.
Removed the pad on a number of my Bugs. Makes it look vintage.
Well, I did manage to spend a little time on the VW this weekend. Wasn't productive though. I'm going to have to figure out a way to reinforce the right side door sill due to rot. Turns out rusted melted doesn't hold up to welding very well. This car has got to get on the road within three months, even if it isn't exactly what I want, are I'm going to go crazy.
Only progress made so far is tearing more of the interior out...namely the cracked dash pad. I have to admit that I like the look of the dash minus that awful vinyl. I just need to fabricate some kind of vent cover for the holes left behind.
I welded those holes up and bodyworked them before painting the dash body color. You might be able to fiberglass them from the backside and do the same job.
Quote from: ChrisV on July 12, 2007, 02:32:56 PM
I welded those holes up and bodyworked them before painting the dash body color. You might be able to fiberglass them from the backside and do the same job.
I want to devise something that will still allow me to use the defrosters, even though they have always been weak on VW's.
Just a quick update:
Over the past several weekends, I've managed to:
Do a lot of sanding.
Replace the shifter bushing and shift rod coupling. I got to hand it to the wife...she crawled under the car and helped get the shift rod through the bushing while I guided it through from inside the car.
Repaired two rusted out panels and replaced the rear of the right side floorpan.
Dismantled all the original seats. I decided the best way to install the replacement front seats while maintaining the correct height and rake, (or close to it, the replacement seats will be about one inch higher than the originals, which I like).
In the coming weeks, will be sanding the interior and painting it. Installing the new headliner and designing the bracket/hold downs for the new rear seats. I want to install the headliner while the seats are out of the car. All interior trim will be ordered, but not installed until the exterior is completed.
Quote from: JWC on July 23, 2007, 06:23:35 PM
? I got to hand it to the wife...she crawled under the car and helped get the shift rod through the bushing while I guided it through from inside the car.?
That sounds dirty.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on July 23, 2007, 06:44:41 PM
That sounds dirty.
You should have read the first version. I had to go back and add in automotive terms to help clean it up.
Unless of course, your mind wasn't in the gutter and you were talking about all the grease we had to put on the rod to get it through that tight hole, through the tunnel until we finished together at the rear end.
Did I mention I really had to hammer the end of that thing while she held it tight to get it started. :lol:
Quote from: JWC on July 23, 2007, 07:11:01 PM
Did I mention I really had to hammer the end of that thing while she held it tight to get it started. :lol:
Enough! I don't need to have impure thoughts when I look at the VW in my driveway!
(http://www.my-smileys.de/smileys3/naughty.gif)
...and I didn't even mention the latex gloves she used.
Ugghh..I hated putting the shift rod bushing and shift rod in mine.Took some time to get it all right.
Got mine going BTW.Put new pics in my "Project Dune Buggy" thread.
It was definitely a PITA. Tomorrow I have a wedding to shoot. Sunday, I'm going to reinstall the shifter and battery. Then, build one seat base so I can install the driver seat and move the car without having to push it. The next two weeks is going to be spent shooting on location. That's how I'm spending my vacation...working. Well, some of my vacation days anyway. I'm saving a couple of days to paint the car in the fall, hopefully.
One problem I'm having is spending the car fund on other necessary items that keep popping up. The money for the carpeting, headliner, and trim panel went to new glasses and contacts. Good news is I can see again. The money set aside for the tires and wheels, went to a new digital camera (used digital camera), new flash, and a new camera case for the location shoot. Hopefully, that money will be returned to me if everything is successful..if it is really successful, it should be returned two-fold.
I said I would visit and keep the updates going on this project.
I've finally gotten through 90% of the outstanding photography business...enough so that I felt I could spend a few hours on the VW project.
- The shift lever works great, even if my test consisted of just moving the car up and down the driveway.
- Today's engine start up was the first in a couple of months. Took it a while to get going, but eventually she ran fairly smooth considering it really needs spark plugs replaced.
- The driver's seat base has been built and test fitted. The passenger's seat is a project for a few nights this week. I'm going to shoot the build of that seat for posting here and on "myspace". After the seat bases are built, next Saturday will be cleaning up the bases, cleaning up the welds and start cleaning up and painting the interior.
- All the glass has been removed from the car with the excpetion of the front and rear. Those will be removed just before the new headliner goes in.
I'm going to have to accelerate the project. More than likely, I'll repair my two bicycles and start riding to work again. Healthier alternative anyway, and better for the environment.
My daughter's 2007 Focus came in and she wants to start driving it. The wife will take the Volvo....I'm getting some flak from that because she wants an Edge. The Volvo only has 38,000 miles on it even though it is a 2000 model. It has all the options she wants-- heated seats, sunroof, alloy wheels, leather, heated mirrors, memory seats, etc, and the best thing is I only owe $1200.00 on it.
Anyway, that's the update on the Beetle project for anyone interested.
PS, I won't get too much done next weekend, because I turn fifty years old and the wife has planned a weekend on the coast...just us two, a hotel room with jacuzzi, two bottles of champagne, and a bottle of Viagra. ;) :lol:
TMI?
PS, the convertible VW is still rotting away in the backyard. If you remember the model from the "nude" shot in the 'Photography Take Two" thread, she has rented a house in the country that includes a barn wired with power. She wants to learn body work and painting. She and I are considering, once the sedan is finished, moving the convertible to her farm house and working on it together. I just have to convince the wife that all the time spent there would be working on the car...and not the model.
Latest update...there is no update.
I've been so busy lately, still haven't been able to get back to the VW. Which has led to...looking for another VW. Since I have a sedan and a convertible, both project cars, the wife and I are looking at 70's era VW campers that DON'T need any work.
Once you pop, you just can't stop, eh? :lol:
Nope, can't stop.
Bought a 1974 Beetle today...well, unless the guy backs out on the deal. This is one clean car.
Oh, and found a 1965 for 700.00. I haven't made that deal yet, just talked to the guy. He was in getting wrecker serviced. Evidently, it is pretty rough.
Future project.
JWC, can you give me some old car advice? I'm new to this whole thing.
So JWC, how many cars do you have now? :confused:
Well, if the deals work through...
2000 Volvo
2007 Focus
1971 Beetle
1979 Beetle convertible
1974 Beetle
1965 Beetle
Did I mention that I found a mid-sixties Ghia Friday at lunch? I might call on it just to see if it is for sell.
The deal was made for the '74. I'm still holding my breathe because while it is more than I usually pay for a Beetle (or used to pay) it is the cleanest one I've see in a few years.
Once things settle down some,I'm going to call on the 1965. (or 1966, I can't remember which year he said it was for sure).
Quote from: the Teuton on November 03, 2007, 09:31:41 PM
JWC, can you give me some old car advice? I'm new to this whole thing.
Like what?
Quote from: JWC on November 03, 2007, 10:04:44 PM
Like what?
In case you haven't read up on my stuff, I don't want to hijack your thread, but I'm going to look at a BMW 2002 project car tomorrow. I'm nervous because I really don't want to buy a non-running car, but I think I can get the price where I want it to be. I am bringing a friend with significant mechanical experience, but I don't want to get in over my head. I just want something I can work on and in 5 years be satisfied with a beautiful daily driver.
I don't know, I think I'm just really nervous.
Karmann Ghia!? I love them.
Hehehe, rock on...
Quote from: the Teuton on November 03, 2007, 10:16:45 PM
In case you haven't read up on my stuff, I don't want to hijack your thread, but I'm going to look at a BMW 2002 project car tomorrow. I'm nervous because I really don't want to buy a non-running car, but I think I can get the price where I want it to be. I am bringing a friend with significant mechanical experience, but I don't want to get in over my head. I just want something I can work on and in 5 years be satisfied with a beautiful daily driver.
I don't know, I think I'm just really nervous.
Sorry, I haven't been on CarSpin too much lately, so I might have missed details of your search.
Non-running cars don't bother me too much...if it is an older system without computer gadgets. The internet has made parts more readily available for people, such as myself, who live in the boondocks.
If the body is relatively rust free, I'm usually happy.
When buying an old car, I look underneath first. Floor pans, corners of wheelhouses etc. for rust holes. I pull the carpet back, front and rear, and look for evidence of rust. Rust holes along rocker panels are difficult, but not impossible to repair. Rust holes around fenders I've come to expect and it is pretty simple to cut and weld in new metal.
On older cars, non-VW, damaged or rusted chrome trim is costly and hard to get. If body side trim is intact and clean, that is a plus. One of the guys at work is redoing a 1965 Falcon with his son. His is a prime example of trim woes. $300.00 for a piece of chrome for the rear quarter panel...left side only. Broken tail lamps and glass can be another expensive item.
Don't worry about hijacking the thread. It has roamed freely since its inception, but since the yellow VW is an ongoing project, it will always go back to its origin.
Holy Crap John, thats a lot of cars
Your daughter will be driving soon though right?
She turned sixteen in April. She hasn't had the desire to drive yet, except on occasion with her mom. She refuses to drive with me...which utterly confuses me since I'm less threatening to than her mother.
I paid for, but haven't picked up the 1974. I didn't want to drive without plates the twenty-five miles home, even with a lead car. A ticket is too risky, been there before. The last time I got stopped without a plate, the highway patrol threatened to have the vehicle towed from the spot they stopped me. I convinced him to let me drive back, eleven miles, to the dealership. He escorted me all the way.
The list of things I know need to be done to the 1974:
Replace the dome lamp.
Replace the fuel filter, plus move it to a safer location than the engine compartment and replace one fuel line. (I replaced a leaking fuel line today and test drove the car...ran and drove great.
Replace the shifter bushing. You can go back a couple of pages and see how that worked out on the 1971 Beetle.
Replace the fresh air box in the luggage compartment.
Replace the trunk liner.
Reglue the corner of the driver's door trim panel..the vinyl has worked loose.
Reinstall the windshield washer bottle and line. All the parts are there, they just need to be reattached correctly. If you are unfamiliar with VW windshield washers...it runs off of air pressure from the spare tire.
Install modern 3-point retractable seat belts for the front seats.
Things I'm thinking of doing (especially since they will eventually go on the 1971 car:
Wood slat roof rack.
Flat-four BRM-style wheels. (Currently the '74 has optional sport wheels. It also has the sport seats).
Replace the paper air filter style box with the oil bath unit from the 1971 VW.
So what are the plans for all these cars?
The "new" one will stay the same except for the add-ons listed.
The yellow '71 will continue to be modified.
If, big if, I decide to also get the 1965-6 (can't remember now what year it was)I'll do a brake job, tune-up, clean up and flip it.
Hey John,
Why did you decide to use the oil bath air cleaner instead of the paper air cleaner.
Currently my Caddy has an oil bath system (the "air cleaner" is filled with oil) and I was thinking about going with a traditional (read: "normal") air cleaner.
Any advantages to the oil over the paper?
Southdiver1, it really is just a simple matter of convenience and filtration efficiency.
Convenience because it eliminates the need to purchase a paper filter.
Filtration, because oil bath filters more efficiently. There have been some tests on the VW sites that indicate either no loss of power or a better power curve with stock oil bath filter housings. Some of it may be due to the fact that after-market air filters sit closer to the carburetor. For a VW, 3" is considered the minimum. The air filter acts as a sort of velocity stack.
The oil bath filter also allows for oil blow-by from the crankcase.
...and
since a VW engine holds 2.6 qts of oil, it gives me a place to put the other .4. ;)
Quote from: JWC on November 04, 2007, 03:23:21 PM
If you are unfamiliar with VW windshield washers...it runs off of air pressure from the spare tire.
This is an awesomely goofy fact.
"My windshield is dirty because my tire is flat!!"
When I get the windshield washers reconnected properly, I'll post a pic.
Quote from: Secret Chimp on November 06, 2007, 10:19:43 PM
This is an awesomely goofy fact.
"My windshield is dirty because my tire is flat!!"
VW likes to do weird stuff like that.
Quote from: 280Z Turbo on November 07, 2007, 07:16:33 PM
VW likes to do weird stuff like that.
Safety item.
By tying the washer system to air in the spare tire, it was assured you would check the spare tire PSI on a regular basis. ;)
Unless you never use the washer...
What if you had a flat tire?
Quote from: Danish on November 07, 2007, 10:48:34 PM
What if you had a flat tire?
Then you get to drive home without windshield washers?
Operation Red Bug:
Installed fresh air box from the 1971 model car. I'll have to take a trip to Zcarnut's buddy's place to procure another.
Installed new sun visors and clips.
Installed driver's side 3pt retractable seat belt.
Tomorrow I'll install the passenger side belt assembly, replace the spark plugs, adjust the valves and adjust the carb.
I'll post pics tomorrow of the "new" ride.
Update Red Bug:
Saturday afternoon, rebuilt the carb from the Yellow Bug for install on the Red Bug.
Installed a new shift bushing in the "tunnel" this afternoon. Went a lot faster than the first time. First since I had the car that I've been able to make a successful shift into second without grinding reverse first. When I pulled the carpet to remove the lever, I found that the PO had forgotten to tighten the retaining bolts and that was 50% of the problem.
The carb off the Yellow '71 had been sealed to the manifold with RTV. NOT a good choice. Air passages were filled with putty. After sitting in a can of carb/parts cleaner for a week, I found that carb cleaner doesn't have an affect on RTV. So, I had to scrape it and rod as much out as I could.
Installed the rebuilt carb and the car idles and accelerates much, much better. The problem is....it makes the loudest whistling noise you've ever heard. Either I didn't install a part correctly or, a piece of that RTV is stuck in an air passage. Either way, it is not going to work out with that banshee scream, so it is new carburetor time.
:ohyeah:
Would it be cheaper to have some random shop rebuild the carb and let them find the problem?
Wouldn't be half as satisfying.
Naaahhh, unless it is an old Quadrajet, there are no mysteries on carb rebuilds. Plus, finding someone to rebuild any carburetor nowadays is getting nigh impossible. The guys coming out of auto tech college just stare at them as if they are off some alien space craft.
Seriously, it isn't that difficult.
Quote from: JWC on December 02, 2007, 01:23:42 PM
Update Red Bug:
Saturday afternoon, rebuilt the carb from the Yellow Bug for install on the Red Bug.
Installed a new shift bushing in the "tunnel" this afternoon. Went a lot faster than the first time. First since I had the car that I've been able to make a successful shift into second without grinding reverse first. When I pulled the carpet to remove the lever, I found that the PO had forgotten to tighten the retaining bolts and that was 50% of the problem.
The carb off the Yellow '71 had been sealed to the manifold with RTV. NOT a good choice. Air passages were filled with putty. After sitting in a can of carb/parts cleaner for a week, I found that carb cleaner doesn't have an affect on RTV. So, I had to scrape it and rod as much out as I could.
Installed the rebuilt carb and the car idles and accelerates much, much better. The problem is....it makes the loudest whistling noise you've ever heard. Either I didn't install a part correctly or, a piece of that RTV is stuck in an air passage. Either way, it is not going to work out with that banshee scream, so it is new carburetor time.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=ccgXjA2BLEY
Come on, you know you want it.
Jesus, what will they think of next?
Quote from: JWC on December 02, 2007, 04:51:39 PM
Jesus, what will they think of next?
You've never seen Bubb Rubb and Li'l Sis? :lol:
No and not sure I want to again.
Older than the internet.
But apparently still not as old as JWC ;) :P
Quote from: JWC on December 02, 2007, 04:11:42 PM
Naaahhh, unless it is an old Quadrajet, there are no mysteries on carb rebuilds. Plus, finding someone to rebuild any carburetor nowadays is getting nigh impossible. The guys coming out of auto tech college just stare at them as if they are off some alien space craft.
Seriously, it isn't that difficult.
That's funny because it's true...I'm lost with carbs.
Man, I really need to do a Beetle restore or something...I'm itching for something to do in my garage!
I pulled the carb yesterday and rechecked everything outside of the carb, NPF.
So, I pulled the top plate and indeed, I had left an air valve loose at the top of the carb next to the air horn. Tightened it down and we're back in business.
Been driving it all afternoon. Loads of fun, plenty of waving people. Everyone loves a Bug. :lol:
Quote from: JWC on December 09, 2007, 03:15:56 PM
I pulled the carb yesterday and rechecked everything outside of the carb, NPF.
So, I pulled the top plate and indeed, I had left an air valve loose at the top of the carb next to the air horn. Tightened it down and we're back in business.
Been driving it all afternoon. Loads of fun, plenty of waving people. Everyone loves a Bug. :lol:
A guy in my auto class bought one for $800. It looks like a fun little car. :lol:
Quote from: Raghavan on December 09, 2007, 03:20:06 PM
A guy in my auto class bought one for $800. It looks like a fun little car. :lol:
Great car for running errands. I'll have to borrow a newer car for longer distances...until I completely redo the engine. If it wasn't for the valve on #2, I'd drive it to my sister's place in Swansboro without worry.
Because of the problems I had with it choking off and stalling, plus it appears I'm going to have to replace the starter, I'm not quite ready to take it into the city yet.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=woqiFrnZqvE
I think it definitely needs a Wankel in it.
Why replace an engine designed by Ferdinand?
Quote from: JWC on December 10, 2007, 10:48:42 AM
Why replace an engine designed by Ferdinand?
http://youtube.com/watch?v=UF5DmQV2rVk
:lol:
With that kind of history, what's to hate?
Besides:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=o3MpngZkBuo
I was out on a road test today, made some adjustments on the carb, and had my camera with me...so after a long delay..here are the photos of the red Bug.
(http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/9625/img1585webih6.jpg)
(http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/4156/img1586webbn5.jpg)
(http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/2955/img1587webvo8.jpg)
(http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/9987/img1589webvk6.jpg)
As you can see, it's nothing special and I won't change a thing on this one with the exception of some kind of stereo, muffler, new door panels, and an intake manifold with the cold weather equipment intact.
BTW, the "Collard Festival" front plate was in my father's collection of old plates, and since this is a 1974 Beetle, I thought it fitting to install it on this car. Might give it some "vintage" character.
It's quite clean!
neat!
The steering wheel is from my 1979 Convertible, that I haven't decided what to do with yet, it is a leather wrap wheel..or maybe vinyl, can't tell it is so old and "broken" in. Other than that, haven't changed a thing.
those really are neat cars...i want one!
Thanks, I can't explain why I've got this thing for VW's...all kinds, except water cooled.
Well, except for wanting to get another 1976 Rabbit, mint green and a sunroof. I dated my wife while I owned one of those...sentimental about it.
Once this is the way I want it, it's back to the yellow Bug.
My mom's first car was a yellow bug
A bit off topic, but speaking of air cooled VW's:
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=248880
:lol:
Quote from: 280Z Turbo on December 27, 2007, 04:39:35 PM
A bit off topic, but speaking of air cooled VW's:
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=248880
:lol:
:lol:
I would've turned that stuff in to the police to get it off my hands.
I LOVE the flat red paint job. Was the car repainted, cause the door jams seem to be a brighter shade of red...
The interior was redone a couple of years ago. The outside paint is about four years old and hasn't seen any wax. I can't decide whether to buff or leave it as is..at least until I have to paint it.
I finally got the shifter adjusted properly and fine tuned the carb some more, but the weather won't cooperate. The car runs like crap in cold weather and purrs like a kitten in warm weather. Of course, today I had time to try to balance it out, but the temp stayed around 70+ degrees. By Wednesday, it will be in the high 30's to low 40's.
Today I was cruising in the car and was sitting at a stop light, when two guys, twenty-somethings, pulled up next to me. The passenger leaned over and yelled that he loved my car. Old VW's always draw looks and comments.
Quote from: 280Z Turbo on December 27, 2007, 04:39:35 PM
A bit off topic, but speaking of air cooled VW's:
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=248880
:lol:
I visit samba quite often..like everyday...and read this thread. I wouldn't have turned it in. ;)
Quote from: JWC on December 29, 2007, 08:25:00 PM
I visit samba quite often..like everyday...and read this thread. I wouldn't have turned it in. ;)
You would need a joint rolled up in poster paper to smoke all that shit!
(http://www.boognish.com/ween_archive/weirdie/tn/Cheech__Chong_4.jpg)
I dunno about y'all, but I'd rather not smoke 20 year old weed.
Though, I suppose there are dealers who might sell it...
I'll be pulling the engine out of the red Bug this weekend. Installing a new intake manifold and exhaust system with the correct heat risers. The car is a bitch to drive when the ambient temp is below 45-50 degrees. I'm also going to try to hook the interior heating system back up, hopefully without stealing the heat exchangers (aka, exhaust manifolds) from the yellow car. If that happens, I'll be pulling two engines out.
I'll try to take some photos.
Of course, it is supposed to be in the mid-forties Saturday.
And in the teens tomorrow morning. :frown:
Of course, the latest weather updates says it's supposed to snow tomorrow.
Just my luck.
Wind chill 22F.
Hands frozen.
Miss global warming.
All I could do today was readjust the choke and carburetor for cold weather driving. I am going to have to rob the heat exchangers off the yellow car, though. The exhaust system on this car is from a fuel injected Bug and there are no heat riser connections.
No photos, too tired and consumed by "bad" luck. I removed the yellow car's engine and today removed the red car's engine. What should have taken about an hour, took three hours. Instead of engine mounting nuts coming out easily, whole studs pulled through the engine case. There was a dead mouse in one heat exchanger. In retrospect, I'm now glad the heat didn't work, that would have been one heck of an odor.
The engine out of the red car was probably a Mexican block since it has no engine serial numbers.
Some progress has been made.
The engine out of the yellow car has been resealed (though I didn't split the case, I just resealed the top end).
All the engine cooling tins have been refinished.
The fuel pump spacer broke off in the the block. Not a big deal, you just kinda shake things around and remove the pieces from the sump later. It just meant having to order and wait for more parts to arrive. That has been the biggest delay, waiting on parts.
Are all your cars Superbeetles?
No, two are standard Beetles. The convertible, which is dying a slow rusty death waiting for me to get around to it, is the only Super Beetle.
I thought the normal ones had headlight covers.
Quote from: 280Z Turbo on February 23, 2008, 05:20:00 PM
I thought the normal ones had headlight covers.
The last year for "covered" headlamps was 1966. After 1966, Beetles started using standard off the shelf 6014 headlamps.
BTW, same as the Datsun Z.
Quote from: 280Z Turbo on February 23, 2008, 05:25:35 PM
:huh:
At one time all headlamps were standard. The sizes were 6014, the large round high/low headlamps, one headlamp per side. Then you had 4000 and 4001...two headlamps on each side.
Quote from: JWC on February 23, 2008, 05:31:44 PM
At one time all headlamps were standard. The sizes were 6014, the large round high/low headlamps, one headlamp per side. Then you had 4000 and 4001...two headlamps on each side.
Oh, right.
I thought you were talking about headlight covers.
Quote from: 280Z Turbo on February 23, 2008, 05:20:00 PM
I thought the normal ones had headlight covers.
The easiest way to tell is the rounded snout that sticks out further than on a normal Beetle and past the headlights.
(http://www.dragtimes.com/images/7267-1971-Volkswagen-Beetle.jpg)
Of course later, they had rounded windshields, but all super beetles have the big nose.
My old 1973 Super Beetle Autostick. Bought it just as it is shown here and sold it exactly the same. Note the rounded front end and curved windshield that Soup mentioned.
(http://img86.imageshack.us/img86/7753/vw104lb5.jpg)
My 1971 Super Beetle and the wife's 1988 Honda Civic. The '71 was orange when purchased and was stripped totally down and repainted. It was also dechromed and the engine was rebuilt. Interior was painted black.
(http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/2784/vw105nt1.jpg)
(http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/2883/vw106fc0.jpg)
These were taken about 15-17 years ago when we lived in the boonies. The house behind the yellow car was our first house together. We rented it for $200/month. The other shots are the back yard.
That was a great house. Small on the outside and huge inside. The house dated to the 1870's and the rooms were huge, but overall the house was only around 900 square feet. When we started house hunting, we had a difficult time deciding on a house until we found the one we're in now. Though all were larger square footage, all the houses we looked at except this one had rooms smaller that the "little" house.
Wish me luck. I'm going to try and wrap up this engine job this weekend.
HERBIE!!! :rockon:
Quote from: TheIntrepid on February 29, 2008, 08:42:05 PM
HERBIE!!! :rockon:
You're a herb.
It looks like it's going to come out nicely, JWC.
Quote from: CALL_911 on February 29, 2008, 08:43:10 PM
You're a herb.
It looks like it's going to come out nicely, JWC.
Do not disrespect.
(http://members.aol.com/foxcraft/Herbie10Mar07LF5.JPG)
Not this weekend either.
Fan/alternator issues reared their ugly heads. Did get the new heater cable run though.
The red Bug lives!!!
I installed the new Bosch starter this evening after work. Installed the original crank pulley and the SOB cranked over and purred like a kitten. After it started to warm up, it sputtered and died. Carb problem still there. I'm happy.
Turned out besides the carb problem, the "custom" chromed and indexed crank pulley that was on the engine was marked 20 degrees off from TDC. I contacted the PO and he had the original pulley. I picked it up from him and compared it to the chrome pulley and...found out the timing has been way, way off.
Now I need to readjust the valves and reset the timing.
I was behind an old bug today with a stinky exhaust. Is that normal. I figure maybe the timing's bad or rings were wore out. Good luck with the bug.
The only stinky on my car now is the new paint baking on the exhaust. Probably a worn out engine...or running too rich.
I just ran her down the road and back a couple of miles. The only adjustment I had to make was to add some shims to the alternator pulley because the belt tightened up on the road test. Now all I have to do is hook up the air tubes for the heat and this car is road ready.
On to the next!!
Well, I've driven it for the past week. No failures, minor adjustment to the carburetor...
...and I now have heat again.
I did have to buy a new floor jack. My 17-18 year old one quit during the adjustments on the heater cables. It managed to get the car up in the air, but it couldn't get it back down.
Same floor jack (but different name)...$100 less than I paid for the old one back in the early nineties.
Quote from: JWC on April 13, 2008, 08:32:53 PM
Well, I've driven it for the past week. No failures, minor adjustment to the carburetor...
...and I now have heat again.
I did have to buy a new floor jack. My 17-18 year old one quit during the adjustments on the heater cables. It managed to get the car up in the air, but it couldn't get it back down.
Same floor jack (but different name)...$100 less than I paid for the old one back in the early nineties.
Of course you have heat again! It's no longer winter.
Bugs are like that.
39 degress here this AM. Winter hasn't let go yet.
Bumping this back to the top...
I spent this past weekend working on the red Beetle. It seems to take up more time than I anticipated, so the yellow car has kinda dropped off the restoration map.
The brakes failed last Thursday morning as I pulled into a drive up ATM. Nursed it back home and spent July 4th installing new brake hoses on the front. I had seen a bad spot on the right front and ordered replacement hoses. I just didn't get around to installing them soon enough.
After that I installed new gauges in the dash. I can now monitor oil pressure, oil temperature, and volts.
Unfortunately, during the road test, a nagging little hiccup the car had for a few days before the brakes failed, decided to become a case of the flu. Without warning, it will buck and misfire on acceleration. Even backfiring at times. I haven't put my finger on the problem yet, but I'm thinking condenser. That is until this afternoon. I was talking to one of the old timers at work about the problem and he thinks the coil is bad.
I ordered new points and condenser this morning. I'll order a coil tomorrow. If nothing else, I need spares anyway.
Condenser is simple and cheap, but gave you narrowed it down to ignition? Could also be a fueling problem.
I removed the coil today at lunch and took it to work. Tested the ohms and it is definitely out of range. That was cold, so it is probably even worse when hot. If that is the only thing wrong I'll be happy.
I based the diagnosis on past experience. Dwell readings were way off which would pretty much narrowed it down to ignition.
Parts (new coil, condenser, points) came in this morning, rode home and installed the coil, still same result. Replaced condenser, straightened right up. Weak coil probably led to the condenser burning out. Drove the VW back to work, no problemo.
Spent about an hour this afternoon trying to clean up the "luggage" compartment. Problems was what to do with spare belts, wires, and all the tools.
Bought a early sixties (or late fifties) Samsonite suitcase. I wanted something vintage to go along with the car. Guy at work has a sister who deals in antiques and she had this leather one that she sold me for $25. Went to the dollar store and spent ten bucks on storage trays and containers. Narrowed down all the tools to VW only.
The result: (Sorry about the big photo, didn't post process)
(http://img229.imageshack.us/img229/7149/img9126amp1.jpg)
(http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/7757/img9127cw0.jpg)
Neato.
Damn, you really know what you are doing
I like how a giant thing of zip-ties is in your repair kit. :praise:
That is cool. :lol:
Just to add more to the pot....
I bought a 1978 Westfalia this week. Needs restoration and (hopefully) minor engine work. $500.00 Towing it home Wednesday.
In case you've lost count....that's four, yes four, VW's at my house now.
so i assume you sell these after you finish restoring them?
Quote from: M_power on September 15, 2008, 05:43:22 PM
so i assume you sell these after you finish restoring them?
Only if I have to.
I once had four or five and sold them all to make a down payment on the house. I'm fixing these up for me, then hand them down to my daughter.
Got the Westy running today. It didn't sound too bad for not having run in three years.
I have also decided to sell the 'vert for whatever I can get for it. That money will finance the camper.
Are you going to get one of those wacky campers where you can make a complete U-turn underneath the camper? :lol:
Quote from: thecarnut on September 27, 2008, 09:44:49 PM
Are you going to get one of those wacky campers where you can make a complete U-turn underneath the camper? :lol:
When he says "Westy" he means "Westfalia," which means "VW camper bus."
Quote from: Soup DeVille on September 27, 2008, 09:48:39 PM
When he says "Westy" he means "Westfalia," which means "VW camper bus."
Oh, didn't catch that.
Quote from: thecarnut on September 27, 2008, 09:56:44 PM
Oh, didn't catch that.
Its a Veedub thing, you wouldnm't understand ;)
Quote from: Soup DeVille on September 27, 2008, 11:16:24 PM
Its a Veedub thing, you wouldnm't understand ;)
So true. This is my second VW camper. The first was a 1964 "split" I bought in 1978 for $1500.
I must say, I'm thoroughly confused about this 1978 Westy. After adding two gallons of fresh fuel (to the old fuel) and some injector cleaner it ran and idled great. The owner sold it to me because it was skipping so badly. The only thing I hear out of the ordinary is a very loud exhaust leak, but I just about pinned that down, I think. I'm trying to remain skeptical about this engine and the supposed problem. I let it idle for about 45 minutes and drove it around my friend Shannon's yard, no problem. Well, except the brake pedal almost drops to the floor and you have to pump the pedal to bring it up. I added a pint of brake fluid, so I'm sure there is air in the lines.
The PO really hated giving up this camper, enough that we agreed that if I ever sold it, I'd give him first chance at it.
I'm not seeing why he let it go so cheap.
The VW Bus/camper left this evening for greener pastures. I sold it to a guy in Atlanta and we loaded it up on his trailer most of the afternoon and until 9:30 tonight. He really didn't come prepared and I'm worried that the bus won't stay on the trailer for the trip back to GA.
I made sure the bill of sale stated that I relinquished all responsibilities and liabilities to him.
He didn't have a few tie down ropes?
Quote from: hotrodalex on July 15, 2013, 11:10:07 PM
He didn't have a few tie down ropes?
He brought one huge ratcheting strap and two small ones. They were new and he had never loaded one before...and I haven't done it in years. So, I assembled those. He kept twisting them and getting the straps jammed in the gear. I finally donated some new chain and a padlock to secure the front. Used one small strap underneath the rear. We ran the huge one through the side windows and to the trailers side pockets.
I had to use the V70 to pull the bus on the trailer. How it arrived from Ga in one piece must have been pure luck because when the when the front of the bus hit the trailer, the trailer came off the hitch and put a nice dent in the truck's tailgate. Too bad it was a borrowed truck from a friend of his.
He kept wanting to push the bus up on the trailer, but he didn't bring help and god-dammit I'm 55. I'm fat and tired. I finally convinced him that pulling it onto the trailer with the Volvo was the only way to go. We put jack stands under the rear of the trailer and pulled it right up.
Well, he made it. He called me last night. Great guy. He said it was a little squirrelly due to some rough roadways in S.C. (I-20)
He had to get bolt cutters to remove the chain, so that tells me how rough it was and that I made the right decision to give him chains to tie it down.
It's not real without pics. ;)
As of Wednesday...I will be divested of all VW gear and cars. I will keep my VW-particular tools though, learned that lesson.
:(
Evidently, I didn't ask enough money. Once this guy saw the photos I emailed, he sent me a cashiers check for the asking price...no haggling. It seemed like one of the classic scams, so I ran his name on Google and found where he worked. I called.
He is a manager for First Citizens Bank.
How did we survive without Google?