Buying a beetle

Hey, hey, hey, 🙂

Off to the big smoke tomorrow to check out the 62 beetle. Its fair enough to want to buy new parts but i guess getting the car is the important part first. I am very confident with what i have been told, that it is actually a good buy. What do you guys think? Its a 1962 Custom/Standard - so i'm told. has a 1600 single port, 12volt conversion, new brakes, re-trimmed interor, new carpet, rego till april and a roadworthy cert. Cosmetically its original as they come and has the original paint still in quite good condition. The lady that has it has owned it for the past 16years and said it goes wonderful, always serviced and garaged. Shes is asking $3,000 for it?

When i test drive it in the morning what should i look for? All advice greatfully appreciated!

Thanks Guys 🙂

RUST

every thing else can be replaced pretty easily.
Look for rust in the floor (especially under the battery) and in the heater channels. rear quarter panels near the running board and inside the front wheel well.

Rust in the doors is not good but doors can be replaced.


That sounds a pretty good price.

the 12 volt is a good thing
As is the 1600. In NSW a 1600 "should" have disc brakes but that is a side issue.

Look for play in the front wheels. They are king and link pin. TOO much play can be a bother.

Other wise usual things
oil leaks
clutch shudder
wandering steering

Good luck

as blue said...rust major issue...

also check for gearbox problems..one sign to watch for is popping out of fourth gear difficulty engage reverse etc.

apart from that it sounds like a good price.

This website has lots of good tips on buying a beetle http://www.thebugshop.org/bsfqbyng.htm

Sound a goer, just check out the usal spots. Good luck.

To check the heater channels have a look in the heater vents, these are to the side of the floor in the footwell of the front seats. If you see any rust there walk away.