Well nearly 11 months ago, I started a 67 restoration which at the time, I optimistically thought would take three months.. Finally I'm about to start the re-build phase..
Rather than add to the old thread, I thought I'd start a fresh one.. Here is the old thread..
The floor pan... has been ready for months.. (the delay has been in the body restoration).. The pan has been blasted and powder coated in black.. Looks great.. Cost $1200
The body.... The more you chop into a 40 year old car, the more you find needs doing.. I have not cut any corners and the body will be substantially better than factory condition.. Chris, (the fabricator) is an absolute genius.. He has smoothed seams, replaced sections, fitted and re-fitted countless times the doors and other parts to get all the gaps correct..
Chris has spent 100's of hours on the body.. He wants to show the car when its finished.. I have to believe him as I've seen some of the hotrod work he does and there are not enough superlatives for his metal creativity.. I have a dvd video of the work.. I can't work out how to post the stills but I'll find a way later on..Anycase enough of the body.. Cost to date $8,000..
The front K&L beam is being fitted with wide 5 disc's by Boris at VVD.. All new or refurbished bits on the beam.. Cost $2200
The rear is a created around a re-built gearbox using a 3.88 Ring and Pinion and a .82 4th drive gear..
The gear box will be married to Type 1 axle shafts and type 3 brakes.. I finished stripping these parts today and they are off for media blasting and powder coating.. The gearbox builder is reknown on this forum.. Cost $2,000
I'm hoping for 17" ESCRA's for wheels. If that doesn't happen, 15" Raders.. Cost (with tyres) $1900
The engine is a 1916 re-built about 18 months ago by another reknown AVD guru.. Built around a sweet counterweighted crank with an engle110 cam.. It will run either EFI or twin carbs.. Not sure yet.. Finished with a ceramic coated semi merged extractor and exhaust.. Should be good for 80 - 90 hp which is plenty.. I'm curious to dyno it when ready.. Total setup $6,500
The body will be set off with a blue that I've been told will be like "looking at the blue sky but just blue-er and a bit metallic.. Cost $2,000
The interior will be all new with leather connolly hide in light tan.. Say $5,000
Total Cost Say $30,000 once all the bits are on the car.. About 16 months should do it.. Not for the faint hearted but you get back a car that is rebuilt and re-fitted, down to the smallest nut and bolt.. Better then when it came off the factory floor
Anycase.. For the moment.. Here are the axle shafts and brakes ready to go to the coater.. I'll post the assembly here as we get into it
[ Edited on 10-9-07 by StenGuns ]
StenGuns ·
.
.
[ Edited on 7-8-07 by StenGuns ]
Sioux ·
:o
oh
my
god
the pan alone makes me drool, cant wait to see the body !!!
vw54 ·
looking good Rob
squizy ·
Shit Rob that's a good start.
StenGuns ·
Thanks.. It's been a bloody pain, stripping, collecting and organising the tear down and refurbishment of all the components etc.. A bit like a project manager as I have minimal time, skills or accessibilty to take on too much myself.. I have therefore tried to find people who are recognised specialists in their fields to do the hard stuff.. The body re-fabrication being (I believe) the most important part.. The re-assembly of the running gear and floor pan will be fun.. Then marry the body and face a nightmare getting the wiring, upholstery and shiny bits all located, refurbished or renewed and installed..
The end result I want is an old skool "rod" look with as many safety refinements (eg Brakes) and modern touches to make it that much safer, go faster, stop quicker.. Also beautiful from every aspect..
squizy wrote:Shit Rob that's a good start.
ovalkeith ·
You can't beat a good looking pan. Nice work. Is the cost just for the powder coating or for any repairs aswell? Either way it seems a good price.
ovalkeith ·
StenGuns wrote:Minimal rust spots welded in.. The cost is for blasting, etch priming, spot repairs and final coating.. I have another if you want this done..
A bit far for me to come unfortunately. I was just curious as to the cost differences between what you guys pay and here in the uk.
It works out about about £400 - If I can get my oval pan done for that price I'll be very happy though it needs a fair bit of welding....damn British weather!
bond ·
love the idea of a budget - i did one - then multiplied everything by 2.
pan looks great!
nick
vw54 ·
Rob
Let me know when your ready to refit the body
StenGuns ·
Collected the Rear Drums and Tubes from the powder coater today.. Unfortunately the backing plates had been missed and won't be ready till next week..
I need to get the drum internal circumference polished to get rid of some pitting and shit that has collected over the years.. Not sure where to get this done but will look into next week
dangerous ·
Rob has asked me to re-do his tranny.
Since transaxles are all that i think about, day and night, (and sometimes girls),
I jumped at the chance to do this one since it is my hobby.
He had two early swingaxle cores, and considering that ther were at least 40 years old,
we were able to use quite a few of the original parts from inside.
Because of Rob's proposed lower than stock profile tyres,
and his need to cruise on the highway at a respectable speed and RPM,
we have chosen to use the 3.875 diff ratio, and a 0.82 fourth ratio.
(3rd is 1.26, second is 2.06, and first is 3.80).
The crownwheel and pinion came from a late AT tranny core(L Bug),
and the 0.82 fourth ratio is originally from a 1968 bus tranny.
Here is the difference between the original 4.375 diff and the replacement 3.875.
This is believed to be the strongest pinion that VW made for the beetle tranny.
With some swapping and adjusting of the various diff shims
I was able to fit it into a late swingaxle case(from a 1300 twin port car),
and get the pattern to where I wanted it.
This late case has the larger pinion bearing, a 12 volt bellhousing, and a nice long clutch arm.
Here is a shot of the .82 fourth gear whilst the gearbox was in the jig
for one of the trial assembly and checking routines.
Because of the additional strength that VW added to the later cases near reverse gear,
this case requires a different reverse idler gear than the ones from early sixties bugs,
so here is a shot of the new gear.
It is very common for the genuine gear to 'lean' the teeth over
and consequently pop out of reverse.
This gear is a special extra strong one I got from the USA
and it is from my secret stash of spiffy stuff I have been hoarding.
I used a new German seal and some Curil T, before fitting the clutch slide tube.
I also welded the clutch fork for additional strength.
Here is the finished tranny with my helper for the day.
Rob can get it looking all spiffy with paint and polish detail if he so wishes.
Your car should be a pretty sweet ride Rob!
StenGuns ·
Awesome Dave!.. I'm totally in your debt for this.. Thanks for the quick turn around!~
Well with the box finished I thought I'd go and collect the front beam from Boris at VVD/Campsie and stop for a talk with Con at VW Village/Kensington about the next stages.. Con will be looking after the rebuild of the floor pan/ running gear etc.. His son (George) will do the EFI modification to the 1916..
Next stop is Coventry Fasteners in Alexandria to replace every nut, bolt and screw required for the assembly..
Here is the refurbished adjustable front beam..
Con.. A top bloke!
bond ·
nice beam rob! very fortunate to have a box built for you by dave!
will have to keep us up to date with the efi mods!
nick
StenGuns ·
Thanks Nick.. Yes, I'm happy the tranny will stand up to the rest of the car..
Rear Type 3 brakes re-build started today.. I stripped the brakes and have had all the components soaking in undiluted de-greaser for 2 weeks.. The shit comes off no problem with a wire wheel on a drill clamped to my work bench.. Revealing a nicely polished finish for the re-assembly.. I was going to paint these bits grey but can't see the need really..
Before cleaning
After cleaning
Comparison
FOOTNOTE:
[After all of this cleaning and screwing around, we discovered that the type 3 brakes had been retro fitted with 1500 brake shoes and slave cylinders.. Also the drums had next to no tolerance left and needed replacing..
Luckily Con had a set of early type 3 shoes and cylinders. We also located a new set up drums from Micks.. Oh the joy of it all]
[ Edited on 10-9-07 by StenGuns ]
StenGuns ·
I've located a late bug (74 I think) steering column.. The original reason was to do with safety as the later rods had a collapsible section.. Another advantage is that the late bugs have a much more comprehensive array of switches on the steering column stalks.. So I can wire all my accessories, Horns, Lights, Blinkers, Dip, Washer through the column..
The steering rods are both the same length however the diameters are different (late one is wider).. The late one fits the foot that attaches to the steering box so all good there..
The bracket on the column of the late bug is different however this is only a matter of setting new holes and making sure everything lines up correctly..
I'm well pleased to move on.. The next step is locating all the brightware bits.. Side strips, good quarter windows.. I want all OG stainless in near perfect condition so this may take a while..
Here's the column pix
Dasdubber ·
Nice detail Rob - I saw your tranny in the midst of rebuild at Dave's....he is very meticulous as you are with the rest of the car so it will fit in well!
Pep the wonder-dog can only lift spanners up to a 13mm though, any bigger and she gets too front heavy and topples over!
🙂
barls ·
good work rob good to see con is still around hes a top bloke helped me out many a time when i was living over there
barls ·
do you still need that switch ive got in the shed mate
StenGuns ·
Woops.. No mate.. Wouldn't mind a 12V wiper assembly though..
barls ·
ill have a look later in the week to see if he has one. ill return the switch back to him then
StenGuns ·
The gearbox arrived yesterday from Dangerous.. Well packed mate!
I hit it with wire wheels etc and then cleaned it thoroughly with acetone.. Polished up nice..
Then three coats of "Aluminium Color" engine enamel. It looks fantastic!
Tomorrow, down to the shop with the new drums for assembly..
555bug ·
nice work! should be quite the car when it's finished
StenGuns ·
Column cleaned, stripped and re-painted..
vw54 ·
You will have to check the PARK position of the wiper motor before you fit the wipper arms otherwsie you may have to rotate the drive arm 180 degrees to get the arms to park in the correct position etc etc etc
StenGuns ·
Coming together nicely..
All the time cataloging, cleaning, replacing or refurbishing the parts as they were stripped down, is certainly paying off now. All clean and shiny!
bond ·
do the dust caps on the vvds kit not fit???
nick
StenGuns ·
Lines all plumbed in this afternoon.. Brakes bled.. Sachs shocks bolted on.. Sway bar on.. Rear Bump stops arrive tomorrow.. Forgot camera.. Pix tomorrow..
[ Edited on 20-9-07 by StenGuns ]
vw54 ·
do the dust caps on the vvds kit not fit???
they take the standard origional cap and fit perfectly
the pic is not right
StenGuns ·
Still waiting on the body to be completed.. A bit frustrating but we had issues with the alignment on the front passenger guard. Also we are recessing the seatbelt inertia reels into the B pillars (don't want to give too much away).. Whats else?.. Oh, custom running boards, repositioned battery etc.. All this takes time and patience..
While waiting, I'm slowly collecting all the bits I'll need for the assembly.. I purchased hyperbright LED indicator lights and have finished making up indicator pods to fit inside the 356 headlight housing.. Here is the unit.
Rear view Installed
Front view Installed.
Another
StenGuns ·
I am also replacing all instrumentation with VDO cockpit series gauges..
The Oil Pressure, Temp, Clock and Fuel are Tacho all fit nicely into the dash panels.. They will be black faced with Chrome Bezel.. They look great!
The speedo was a different story.. The largest VDO speedo is 100mm and its just too small to fit into the speedo housing on the dash.. I wanted to update the speedo but keep the "old skool" style so only one option..
Adapted the housing of the old speedo to take the 100mm VDO unit.. A fair bit of modification and playing but the end result is excellent..
Front
Side
Top
Rear
StenGuns ·
Finally.. Boris at VVD is carefully grading and polishing a complete original set of chrome strips.. Also a set of quarter windows.. I'm thinking of Popouts for the rear but want to take a good look at a set before I commit.. If anyone in Sydney central area has them, can I come and look?
I bought a set of german "long neck" external mirrors as used on 356's, Karmens and early 911's.. Originally I was going to install beetle mirrors on the door hinges but decided to keep with the period 356 theme a little..
View
StenGuns ·
The interior is all imported Procar Upholstery from Scat Enterprises (why not with the exchange rate?).. The seats are the ELITE model in Beige-54 vinyl.. Same with rear seat covers and the door panels.. I decided against Leather due to wearability and cost.
Dasdubber ·
Nice one mate - progress is looking really good. Keep up the good work!
StenGuns ·
Nothing much worth updating except for these nifty Golf 4/Passat side repeaters the we have frenched into a panel and then grafted to the body.. They are cool and add another small difference to the final look..
The big day is closer!!
Bizarre ·
THAT looks good
StenGuns ·
Oh.. Also had the tinware painted and sent off door handles, light rims and other bits for chroming with the blades.. The interior housing of the headlights is also sent off for painting with the body.. Not sure whether I want the alternator stand in chrome or paint yet.. I'm leaning toward chrome..
StenGuns ·
And meets the safety issue Barry.. The new front LEDs are totally directional. Apparently you need a 45degree visibility of your turn indicators so these side lights work fine!
Bizarre wrote:THAT looks good
bond ·
alan (das) did the same with his lights on the 63 rag. is a nice look.
nick
StenGuns ·
The decision to run LED's led to another issue.. The existing taillight setup is a dual filament bulb that acts as the taillight and brakelight. I wasn't sure how the LED bulb (although it has two contacts) would act in the circumstances.. eg; with taillight on, would the brake light illuminate "brighter". The theory is that it should, however a couple of tests were inconclusive..
So.. With a safety first approach, I deciided to mount a 2nd red LED in the taillight housing. This can either be wired up with the 1st LED are run on a separate circuit for the brakes only..
The positioning of the 2nd LED is tricky, however I managed a fair result on the first one I tried..
Here are the results:
Dasdubber ·
Nice detail work mate - really enjoying the progress and neat ideas. As Nick mentioned, I did the side indicator mod as well and it was well worth it especially with drivers who don't pay much attention to the indicators down low on the bumper (or in the head lights!)
Alan
StenGuns ·
Thanks Alan..
StenGuns ·
This is a quick peek at the tiinware.. The Engine block is to be cleaned up and painted today.. Then the EFI system can start to be sorted out.. The guy who's doing (experimenting) with my EFI is fabricting some type of plenum setup.. Doing away with the distributer and relocating all the leads behind the shroud.. Don't ask me too much as I know sweet FA on the subject..
The plenum housing is CAD drawn, cut and fabricated, then polished up to ensure it is consistent with the aesthetics of the engine bay and the whole car (thats my dept). I'll get more photos up during the progress..
StenGuns ·
PS: that colour is "Liquid Blue" which is a current Audi A4 colour.. It looks sweet with beige interior and lightly tinted glass... Add a bit of chrome and low profile rubber on 17" Escra's... You get the picture
StenGuns ·
You've got to love those rattle cans..
White Knight Engine enamel "Aluminium" Same as on my tranny..
Mind you. its all in the prep.. Acetone Wash, Wirewheel and Rub Down then a 2nd Acetone wash.. Should be sweet
StenGuns ·
Happy with that!
vw54 ·
Rob
The tailight n front blinkers look great
You will have to adjust the axle boots on the gearbox, to about the 10 oclock position as they tend to pull when there fitted in the 12 oclock pos
OZ Towdster ·
vw54 wrote:Rob
You will have to adjust the axle boots on the gearbox, to about the 10 oclock position as they tend to pull when there fitted in the 12 oclock pos
I was just reading through the posts and noticed the same thing and was going to post the same suggestion , but it would seem youve got to get up ealier to beat Mr Birchall to the post
StenGuns ·
Tks boyz... Dumone advised me about this on U2U some time back.. Just haven't got round to it..
StenGuns ·
Body Panels have all been painted..
Body has a bit more prep to do then paint next week
Looks like the body will marry back onto the pan in two weeks!
I haven't seen the painted panels yet but the builder (Chris) is a convert to the colour scheme,, Qucik trip down to the Gong thoday to check out progress, I'll take the camera
GTMac ·
Excellent work. With taste you can definately add to an old VW some new mods and yours are looking good. I like the idea of the side blinkers. I was lucky my side markers on the fastback were faded completely so some orange bulbs and wired into the blinker relay do the trick.
Was thinking of LED's for my front and rears as well, are these from Jaycar?
Keep up the good work.
Andrew
StenGuns ·
Thanks.. Not Jaycar.. I'll find the details and let you know..
StenGuns ·
Here are some pictures from today's visit..
We went through and inventoried all parts, brightware, hardware etc that needs to go back on the vehicle.. One lot for paint, one for chroming.. New stainless hardware for the rebuild..
Here is a pic of the stainless bolts we are using to mount the pan to the body.. Each one had to be hand ground to get the taper.. I couldn't find stock ones. The mounting plates have all been powder coated
.
.
This is a good shot of how we have recessed the seatbelt inertia reels into the bottom of the B Pillars..
.
.
The body is ready for a rub down and then off to get the primer coat
.
StenGuns ·
Hand made running boards (perfect fit)
.
.
Running boards, guards etc have all been gravitexed before sprayed with top coat.. No color change over the whole car (except the pan and running gear which is mostly black powder coat)
.
.
.
The doors and lids have all been painted on the reverse sides.. We are going to bolt the body to the pan, fit and hang the doors, lids etc before the final paint goes on.. Guards will be painted off the body and fitted after.
.
.
...
StenGuns ·
Thats about it.. The next update will be when the body is fitted to the pan.. Piss Up in Helensburgh, NSW that weekend
StenGuns ·
Andrew, the LED's are from http://www.ledshoponline.com/index.html
Excellent (Nthn QLD) supplier.. Ships most days via Experess Post and you can ring for advice.. Forgeotten his name
GTMac wrote:Excellent work. With taste you can definately add to an old VW some new mods and yours are looking good. I like the idea of the side blinkers. I was lucky my side markers on the fastback were faded completely so some orange bulbs and wired into the blinker relay do the trick.
Was thinking of LED's for my front and rears as well, are these from Jaycar?
Keep up the good work.
Andrew
StenGuns ·
Loaded the Pan onto the ute today for the drive down to the panel shop tomorrow... The body is final coat in the inside and primed on the outside.. All the guards and lids are final coated as well.. Once the body is back on the pan, the body will get its exterior coat and the doors, guards, and lids will be fitted..
This was a bitch to get onto the ute.. Me and my wife with the neighbour to give a final lift..
.
.
..
..
StenGuns ·
Speaking of POR15 (in other threads).. I had my front beam sand blasted then coated in POR15.. After about 6 months of weather, the POR 15 coat is crap.. Discoloured and looks ordinary against the powder coated pan which has maintained a high gloss finish.. I'm not at all worried about any flexing or chipping issues with the powder coat and will always use and recommend this as an underbody finish against POR or 2-pac.. Haven't iused silver bullet yet but in my mind the Blast, etch prime and electrostatic coat is the way to go..
.
.
You can see in these shots what I mean.. (and by the way, the por 15 was applied by an expert)..
.
.
.
.
.
.
StenGuns ·
I delivered the pan today.. Nice run in the SC down to Helensburgh..
This was an opportunity to take a look at the paintwork to date on the body shell.. The body interior has basically had its finish coat, as has all the under guards, engine bay and front compartment.. i must admit I was blown away, however Chris isn't happy and is getting some bits re-done.. I couldn't tell but I guess to the trained eye!!.. He also has spent 100's of hours on the body and wants everything just right..
Here's a series of shots from today..
StenGuns ·
Here's some body shots.. You need to see this baby in the flesh.. AWESOME!!
StenGuns ·
Another little mod is the frenched radio/cd head slot.. Nicely cut in to give a smoothed off appearance and a "tray" in side the bulkhead to stop the unit bounce..
StenGuns ·
Body gets bolted onto the pan through the week (I wont be there unfortunately) and then its off to get the finally paint and assembly!
bond ·
sensational. very jealous of your progress! well done.
nick
StenGuns ·
Thanks Nick..
Sometimes progress feels bloody slow! Just do it in small bits as time and budget allows..
Haven't forgotten giving you the nod on all the remaining goodies.. Absolutely positive they will be no good to me as this is my last beetle..
Rob
StenGuns ·
Quick trip down today to help with the body onto the pan.. Lots more to do but at least we are now seeing the progress..
Once the body has been all tightened up, its off to get the final paint coat and then we can start hanging the doors and bolting the guards and stuff on..
All new stainless hardware.. It's like working on a new car!
Anycase, i hope you enjoy these photo's.. No time to add comments at this stage as I'm cooking a risotto before I sit down to watch the crusaders belt the waratahs..
Here's some pix from today..
Rob
bugboymatt ·
Mate looking great.
Camo ·
Hi Rob,
Looks great and gives me inspiration to get mine to that point, as still waiting fro the body to come back from the sand blasters. I guess at this point would be an exciting time, as you finally start to bolt everything together again.
I notice you sprayed the final coat on the inside only. Is this the best way of doing this as I was just going to get mine sprayed completely inside and out and then hang all the painted items (guards etc).
I must point out this is my first vw and my first resto, so am new to this and would appreciate if you could tell my the benefits of spraying inside only and spraying the outside when body is mounted.
Keep up the good work and look forward to seeing your progress.
Cheers, Kevin
StenGuns ·
Kevin.. Thanks for your comments and good luck with your resto.. I'm not the expert but I'm sure if you were to ask one, they would say to prep the whole car for paint, (eg; final primer coat on everything inside, outside, doors, guards lids etc) then put your final paint and clear coats on all "under" and "inner" surfaces. This means when you bolt the car up, all those parts you can't see are as good as the rest of the car when finished.. Remember also that the body MUST be re-located back on the pan before you swing the doors etc.. My builder will now fit everything to the car BEFORE the final paint, check everything and make sure that all the bits fit and work as they should.. THEN, leaving the doors on the body, he'll take evrything else off to paint separately and paint the body of the car with the doors in place.. Then everything is re-fitted to the body and beaded.. Also all the "under" sides, guards, running boards etc.. were given a gravetex treatment before final coat.. Hope this long winded explanation helps..
StenGuns ·
Cheers
bugboymatt wrote:Mate looking great.
StenGuns ·
Here's a couple of more shots..
StenGuns ·
We were stumped what goes on these two points.. Can't recall whether it is some fitting to go with the tank or rubber spacers and a "cup" style fastener.. has anyone shots of what happens here or advise what we need?.. Thanks
BrisDubba ·
Rob,
There should be a leather/rubber spacer under those bolts originally which was around 5mm and square- they bolt the body to the beam.
Sorry dont have a picture handy.
Peter
StenGuns ·
Thanks Peter..
So there must also be some type of metal spacer that bolts down with the bolt as well?.. Where's my westcoast metric book?
StenGuns ·
Found them on wetscoast metric
111-123A - Shockpad - Body to Beam
StenGuns ·
Not sure whether I'm posting this for inspiration to others or for my own nostalgia trip.. However I've put together a few progress shots of the body re-build since September 2006.. Its a huge trip, this type of resto. I can understand the original motivation and gung-ho effort through the mid-resto depression of more and more money and less and less time. Is it worth it? I'll tell you when I'm finished.. Still a ways to go.. Anycase, enjoyed putting this together for what its worth..
StenGuns ·
PS: The inner floor pan shots show the pedals on the left hand and right hand sides.. I just flipped the image in photoshop.. thats all.. Not exporting it.. hahaha
Dasdubber ·
Nice one mate, I know firsthand the challenges, highs and lows of a big resto like yours!
I think it has been asked before but what colour paint is that? I understand if you'd prefer not to divulge it though.
Cheers
Al
StenGuns ·
Alan.. You need not say much mate as we all take inspiration from your work.. Actually you made me start this one so its your fault!!
The colour is "liquid blue" its a current Audi colour used on the A4.. Looks bright in these shots but your seeing it off the gun.. It matches well with a light tan interior, some understated chrome and a light bronze wondow tint.. 17" Escra's.. There, I've just given the whole game away.. Hoping for the Nats in May.. Might just make it..
Rob
bond ·
escras. good choice.
nick
Dasdubber ·
Rob, at least when your wife (assuming you're hitched) gets the $hits with you for spending so much time and money on your project, you have someone to blame other than yourself! Just don't give her my phone number 🙂
Looking great, colour is nice (I was thinking of something similar for my oval, thats why I just wanted to make sure I didnt' choose the same colour). Thanks for sharing the plans.
Al
StenGuns ·
Sanded and ready for final coat.. I hope to have it in my warehouse (for wiring up) by the end of May.. So thats Sep06 to May 08.. Not bad for a 3 month quick resto!
squizy ·
Ready for the Nats Rob?
StenGuns ·
Probably only if I trailer it.. Wiring and mechanics might be complete..
StenGuns ·
Finally the body has had it block sand and final rub down.. The booth is booked all day tomorrow.. i'll go down again on Sunday to take a look..
Not much to see in these shots but the body and guards etc.. The close up of a front guard is to illustrate how straight all the metal is.. Absolute craftsmanship! You need to run your hand over it to feel the sex of it.. I'm confident the paint will do justice to the work
StenGuns ·
Here is the dash showing the alloy instrument panels.. I was going to polish these and clear them but decided to paint and use stainless screws to set it off..
bond ·
nice mate. coming along! very jealous!
nick
StenGuns ·
You will be when you see the pix on Sunday!!!
decked dubby ·
Really nice work.👍
vw54 ·
great pics Rob
StenGuns ·
I can't think of too much to say about the paintwork.. I guess it's all about 18 months work in preparation..
Any case, enjoy while I think up some superlatives...
StenGuns ·
StenGuns ·
These shots are off the gun.. Some de-nibbing to do which will need buffing.. however the paint is so good there is no need to buff the entire car!
Thats 6 coats of colour and 4 coats of clear!!
Craig S ·
Looks great, can't wait to see it all together.
LUFTMEISTER ·
ya missed a bit! 😵💫
nah joking..... nice work.👍
StenGuns ·
Assembly starts on Tuesday.. Need to find a couple of bits including a polished or chromed decklid spring..
I'm now turning my thoughts to the trim.. I want a custom rear seat setup so will need to find the right trimmer..
Also need to re-think the exterior mirrors.. The door hinges have the thread to take the standard mirror stem but not sure that will suit the car now.. I've also got 356 mirrors but same deal.. Thoughts and ideas are welcomed
dangerous ·
Love your dog Rob!
Camo ·
StenGuns wrote:I GET AN ERECTION JUST LOOKING AT THE DOOR GAPS!!
Just don't tell your Miss's about this and I think there is some kind of nasal delivery spray for that type of thing 😂
Well done on the car, looking great and I look forward to seeing more photos.
Kevin
Dasdubber ·
Fantastic mate - looks great off the gun. As you infer above, the top coat is only as good as the prep! Well done.
Al
StenGuns ·
Thanks for the comments everyone .. Can't wait till re-assembly starts..
StenGuns ·
Anyone know where I can pickup a polished or chromed decklid spring (this week)?
Also can anyone recommend a trimmer thats prepared to do some custom coachwork.. Eg: I have an idea for a rear seat configuration thats not standard.. It will involve more than upholstery..
Thanks
Rob
barls ·
try george mate for the chromed spring. also try black needle for the upholstery just dont be scared by their prices. other than that try cruising carpets or iron cross.
StenGuns ·
Hey Mate.. I'll call George in the morning.. I've heard of Black Needle's work.. I'll try and get out to see them this week..
Thanks..Rob
hewey ·
I was going to suggest Black Needle too. 2 of my mates have had work done by him, both custom work, and both very happy. I got a quote for some work years ago, I was very impressed with his approach to both the work and customer service in general (but I just bought a seat cover instead 😂 )
Cant remember if you have said - but what wheels are going with this??
StenGuns ·
17" Escra's
StenGuns ·
The car was pretty much ready to move yesterday. So we loaded it onto the trailer for the move to VW Village Kensington.. The bumper bars are still to be finished, as is the chroming on the handles etc.. However its now off to get it's wiring and engine. It will be in the shop for about two weeks and then the trim will be done before it goes back to the panel shop for final buffing, installing the chrome bits and finish off..
Here are some pictures from yesterday
..
StenGuns ·
And more
..
bond ·
rob. have you trial fit a set of escras yet? i cant remember if you've already got a 2" narrowed beam?
nick
StenGuns ·
No, my beam isn't narrowed! I believe they fit with the right tyre combo..
StenGuns ·
MMMMMM.. Seems like I may have problems with this.. I guess we get the wheels and go from there
bond ·
i remember when i had a 2" beam and the same vvds disk kit, the measurement i took ended up being pretty flush with the gaurd on 235/45s.. understandably you wont be able to slam it... and cant remember exactly but the vvds kit possibly narrows the track? but its not enough on a stock beam...
StenGuns ·
And if I leave the ride height? with low profiles?
I had my heart set on the Escra's but.. shit.. Radars are cool.
koolkarmakombi ·
mate you could stick steelies on that and it would look awesome.
Escras would certainly look especially so.
bond ·
i know a 17x7 with an ET52 ie: porsche twists because of the larger offset you dont need to narrow the beam - take alan dasdubbers 63 build for example. narrowed the beam then had to use a 20mm? spacer to actually move the wheel out.
in that case though the escras are ET42 so if the vvds disk kit narrows the track by 10mm (alan from memory used a cb kit (cant remember if they increase track or not) or so then maybe you'll get away with it?!
nick
bond ·
i dunno if they do like a 215/35 or 225/35 maybe that might help....
StenGuns ·
Guages in
trickysimon ·
That looks sweet! Can't wait to see this finished🙂
Simon
ps. Woo 100th post 😂
Euro_67 ·
I love the colour, simply stunning attention to detail !
StenGuns ·
Thanks for the comments.. A few more surprises in store so stay tuned!
StenGuns ·
Progress is a little painstaking at the moment.. The wiring is a bloody mission!!
Here are some recent shots
.
.
.
.
.
.
StenGuns ·
Hit the rear taillight reflectors with the dremel.. Polished up nice
Mick058 ·
Looking good, love the guages. Where are they from? Just a standard VDO product? Is the speedo custom mounted in the chrome ring?
vw54 ·
Rob
progressing well u didnt send me pics of the toolbox??
vw54 ·
U may need a bigger fuse box
StenGuns ·
Birch.. I don't have it at the mo.. Its down with Chris
vw54 wrote:Rob
progressing well u didnt send me pics of the toolbox??
StenGuns ·
I hope not
vw54 wrote:U may need a bigger fuse box
StenGuns ·
Thanks.. The guages are VDO cockpit series with a chrome bezel replacement.. I took my old speedo and removed the guts then retro-fitted a new cockpit guage into the housing.. A bit fiddly but keeps the look I wanted..
The supplier is in Marrickville.. He is more than helpful.. I have his card somewhere if you need ctc details..
Mick058 wrote:Looking good, love the guages. Where are they from? Just a standard VDO product? Is the speedo custom mounted in the chrome ring?
Mick058 ·
Good to know his a local. I don't like my current gauge set-up, but i'm not quite ready just yet to replace it all. Thanks for the info, will need that number in the future.
Where in sydney are you?
cant wait for this to be finished keep up the great work Rob!
newghia ·
Hi Sten,
i was in with Mark from BLACK NEEDLE today and he showed me these pics of your ride, looks superb, your interior will do justice to the amazing body work, Mark has some great ideas & very clued up on fabrication, did some fantastic things for my Ghia, i am stoked with it.
StenGuns ·
Thanks Costa
Thanks Noddy.. Looks like your Ghia was a pretty awesome job too!
Bizarre ·
Looking good
BTW - did you get rid of the channel that holds the stock rubbers on the hood and engine lid and go for Mexican style or are you keeping the stock rubber strip holder??
StenGuns ·
All the channels have been removed.. The rubber used is not Mexican.. We found a seal that fixes over the lip.. I'll get some pix later
Bizarre wrote:Looking good
BTW - did you get rid of the channel that holds the stock rubbers on the hood and engine lid and go for Mexican style or are you keeping the stock rubber strip holder??
StenGuns ·
Lights are working (Look Great!)
StenGuns ·
Here is a close up of the plenum chamber and throttle body..
The tinware is only mockup.. my painted stuff is held until we do the final build up
dangerous ·
Looks fantastic Rob.
I bet you cant wait to go for a drive.
LIFE IN THE LOW LANE ·
What is the throttle body off??
StenGuns ·
You bet!!.. This Sep it is the two year anniversary.. so much for a quick 3 month resto!
dangerous wrote:Looks fantastic Rob.
I bet you cant wait to go for a drive.
LIFE IN THE LOW LANE ·
Sorry for the questions but engine is what capacity and what size/type of injectors are you using?
Always curious as to what others are using and fits most importantly.
StenGuns ·
A small detail overlooked when setting the new dash was the need for dash lights.. eg: AMps, oil, hi beam and indicator
I don't want to drill into the dash so I've had a few goes at setting up a light array that will (a) look good and (b) do the job..
Most of my attempts (4 so far) have been laughed off by the Con at VW Village (where the re-assembly is taking place).. Even though my pride has been hurt (he can be brutal) I thought I'd give it a final go and try and put something together that will pass muster..
The following unit will sit above/on the steering column head unit and butt up to the bottom of the dash..
The LEDs a R,G,B,G,R (left to right = amp, indicator, hibeam, indicator, oil pressure).. the two G's will flash together as indicator lights..
They are 2V led's so I needed to solder a resistor onto each one to match up to 12V..
Oh Fuk.. As I'm typing this I've just thought about Oil Temp.. Maybe I should throw the amp out and add Oil Temp??
Anycase.. Here is my handiwork..
.
.
.
.
.
barls ·
nice work mate i especially like the skin of the hand in the last pic
StenGuns ·
Yes mate.. A case of a spinning metal item that was being hand held while drilling.. Oh well.. These are the sacrifices you make
barls wrote:nice work mate i especially like the skin of the hand in the last pic
barls ·
as we say at work its not a good day till you loose some skin doing work
StenGuns ·
in the 1st pic, you can see (just) the position of the LED array on the steering head unit..
the next two are some early shots of the engine/tinware/efi mockup..
enjoy
.
.
57 oval ·
Doing a great job, looks a million dollars.
vw54 ·
you need a blank off plate for the fuel pump
StenGuns ·
yes Birch.. we have that.. the motor isn't completed yet
vw54 wrote:you need a blank off plate for the fuel pump
Mick058 ·
looking the goods. tinware looks nice. Love how the LEDs are subtle.
Birch Green ·
Brilliant job...!!!
StenGuns ·
Thanks Mick.. Thanks Birch..
Planning forward now to the trimming.. Hopefully some nice surprises in store
farbs ·
Absolutely stunning!!! Love the fact that you're going Fuel injection.
Can't wait to see how it turns out.
StenGuns ·
Thanks..
I've had a bit of a set back with the door windows.. The scrappers available on the market are really crappy.. we fitted some on Friday but I am not at all happy with the job.. Chasing two options.. 1/ A set of better quality and 2/don't use the window scrappers at all and fit up some aftermarket rubber..
vw54 ·
Rob
I carnt remember if your doing origional windows or one piece???
If origional get some later model 64 to 67 scrapper tirms these are stainless and much tougher than the stock alloy ones that you can buy
You will have to rivet the new rubber to them and can pint to match your car or whatever ring me
StenGuns ·
here is a few shots of the engine fully built..
.
.
StenGuns ·
Just the spark leads andf sensors to tidy up.. All very subtle and uncluttered in the front on view
trickysimon ·
Looks awesome!
How come it doesn't have manfiold heat?
Or am I missing somthing?
Simon
StenGuns ·
Here is a shot of the fuel pump fitted on rubber mounts.. You can see the return line just to the left..
StenGuns ·
Here's some shots of the engine in the car today
.
This is one of George's semi merged extractor exhausts.. Can't wait to fire it up
.
.
.
Where are all the wires?
Camo ·
You're getting closer to that big day, well done and keep the photos coming.
Kev
StenGuns ·
Just come back from the garage after trying to fire the engine.. Unfortunately no luck tonight.. The ECU, Trigger Wheel combo and all the settings are a frikkin nightmare.. I'm just glad that I'm purley a bystander gopher and more qualified people are doing the work! Hopefully we'll fire it up tomorrow..
StenGuns ·
In the absence of an expert reply.
I imagine there is no need to have the manifold heat pipes as the fuel is combined with the air at the manifold head/ combustion chamber.. In an NA fueled engine the fuel/air mix travels before it arrives at the combustion chamber and if the manifolds aren't at a certain temperature, then the fuel can 'condensate' on the manifold walls along the way..
trickysimon wrote:Looks awesome!
How come it doesn't have manfiold heat?
Or am I missing somthing?
Simon
dangerous ·
Don't forget oil in the tranny before starting the engine Rob.
85W90 is what I have been using.
StenGuns ·
Good point.. thanks Dave..
dangerous wrote:Don't forget oil in the tranny before starting the engine Rob.
85W90 is what I have been using.
StenGuns ·
Well after trying most of last week and to get the engine to start, a multimeter over the crank sensor found that it was faulty.. Another one ordered with a day or two's wait.. Then I get a phone calll on saturday afternoon to say that the supplier had made a Sat morning delivery and the engine had been started!!.. Idles but needs a tune.. I will try and video the engine running tomorrow..
vw54 ·
This is one of George's semi merged extractor exhausts..
dont like the look of those exhausts they look very restrictive
sander288 ·
I did have one of these exhausts for a couple of years on ym 1300, I was good to start with but the exhaust outlets are too short and not exactly straight and I had large black carbon stains on my bumpers all the time
StenGuns ·
Yeah Birch, You might be right.. We'll see how it goes.. I do like the stock look though.. We may have to ream the pipes out
vw54 wrote:
This is one of George's semi merged extractor exhausts..
dont like the look of those exhausts they look very restrictive
StenGuns ·
Birch is 100% right.. We are swapping it out for a hideaway setup this week..
So if anyone wants a brand new GT2 stainless exhaust, then this one will be for sale..
vw54 ·
Rob so its fired up OK good to hear
StenGuns ·
Yes mate.. starts fine.. We'll tune it later in the week when the new exhaust is on..
sander288 ·
what sought of EFI system is that one? have been looking at something similar called megasquirt from thesamba.com
StenGuns ·
Car was shipped to Black Needle in Penrith today for trimming. The final leg starts..
Camo ·
I wish my car was this far along. Bet you cant wait, make sure you post photos when you can.
Kevin
StenGuns ·
Thanks Kevin.. You'll get there..
I've got some shots of the West Side Exhaust setup on my old phone which I need to get back.. This makes the engine sound like a souped up RX7.. Not a VW sound at all but definitely tough.. With a starting setup of a 1916 that should do 95HP at the wheel, I reckon the EFI and the Extractors have added at least 20% so I figure its close to 120HP.. We had a test run down Anzac parade and it was brilliant.. 1st gear - too short. Wheel spin no problem: 2nd - Enormous take off: 3rd - nice long gear seemed to pull forever. No tacho so no idea on revs: 4th - still pulling hard. Plenty left. We had to throttle back unfortunately. 4th is definately an overdrive gear. We will have to get some Dyno testing done when its tuned properly..
Rob
Nikos ·
Mate this car looks absolutely unreal. Love the colour and what you've done in the engine bay. Inspirational.
Wouldn't mind a summary on who done what work on the car. I've gone through your posts and can't find who did the work on the body and paint. I know they're in the gong though. Also I know VW Village assembled the engine, efi, exhaust etc, but what size engine did you go with and who built it. I'm based in Sydney also and am still researching who who can do what.
PM me if you like.
Nikos
StenGuns ·
Thanks Nikos
I am compiling a complete restoration summary and will have this all ready next year (possible DVD)
A bunch of guys have had a hand in this process.. As I am TTT Deficient (Time/Tools/Talent) I have looked for the best people I can find to provide workmanship and advice.. This has been an unbelievable learning curve.. The following is just a summary of who's done what..
Early advice - Dave Birchall (vw54)
Front Beam (discs) - Vintage VW - Boris
Engine Build,1916 - Dave Becker (menangler)
Engine Parts - Rod Penrose (RodPenrose) and Powertune, OG Builder
Gearbox - Dave Butler (dangerous)
Body - Chris Rolfe (genius)
Paint - Chris Rolfe (genius)
EFI - George Moraitis, VW Village
Exhaust - Westside (westi)
Re-build - Con Moraitis, VW Village
Trim - Black Needle
Camo ·
Come on, its been at the trimmers for a week. Hows it going, any progress photos yet.
Kev
StenGuns ·
Haha
I'm resisting the urge to ring Mark at BN.. He has a couple of interesting concepts to figure out.. Doesn't need me bothering him too soon.. later this week maybe
Camo wrote:Come on, its been at the trimmers for a week. Hows it going, any progress photos yet.
Kev
Mick058 ·
A dvd of a resto could be a mad idea!
Im with Kev, keen to see the trim.
StenGuns ·
Finally making headway out at Blackneedle and the interior trim is starting to come together..
Here are a few sneak peaks
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Camo ·
Holly shit Rob. I now see why the figure you told me for the cost for this car is where it is up to.
Looking great and I also cant wait to see the finished product. Well done.
Kevin
StenGuns ·
Thanks Kevin..
Just had to get more Dynamat into the rear (behind sub box).. As we have no cladding on the rear firwall, it is important to line that section to kill as much noise as possible..
Trim should be completed by the end of Feb.. Then the chromed blades get fitted.. Also de-nib and buff the paint.. Then Escra's.. Then rego and tune.. Then Westi is fabricating a custom air filter..The list seems to go on forever.. I have put the 71 panel on hold while I put everything into finishing this project..
StenGuns ·
More Shots of the Interior
Not sure of the skirts for the shifter and the handbrake.. I guess they can be swapped for stock rubber ones at a later stage..
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
hellbugged ·
great build and cool thread...........yeah, gear/brake skirts would look better shorter
Special Air Service ·
StenGuns wrote:More Shots of the Interior
Not sure of the skirts for the shifter and the handbrake.. I guess they can be swapped for stock rubber ones at a later stage..
Might look better with the stitching internal if you know what I mean? Would probably hold a better (rounder) shape that way too. But then I'm no upholsterer.
Cheers
Brendan
beetleboyjeff ·
I am a bit ambivilant either way, but stock rubber would make handbrake cable adjustments easier.
From your ole' mate Jeff
izac ·
looking freaking sweet man. love it
newghia ·
Rob,
tell Mark to change it to internal stitching like he did on mine,
with velcro on the underside of the handbrake to make adjustments etc.
Also, you could try cutting down the shifter height & fitting a short shifter kit.
Both items will not be so obvious when the seats etc are in.
Nathan
StenGuns ·
Thanks boyz.. I'm happy to leave the bits as they are until the seats are fitted and, I've driven it for a while..
Mick058 ·
looks tops! Funny how the design and cutting etc is almost the same as mine - musten be too many options when it comes to carpet.
Camo ·
Rob,
Carpet looks great and personally I think the gear boot and handbrake boot need something different. Just my thoughts and it may look totally different once the seats are in.
Re the front kick panels with speakers in them, did they cut out the steel behind to fit the speakers in or just massage it a little.
Love ya work, or in this case - someone else's 😀
Keep the photos coming. Kevin
StenGuns ·
Nah mate.. No cutting.. Just formed the scuttles to stand off the metal work. Leaves sufficient clearance for the speakers.. What ya mean not my work?.. It's my creative genius and my wallet thats getting tapped hard!
Camo wrote:Rob,
Carpet looks great and personally I think the gear boot and handbrake boot need something different. Just my thoughts and it may look totally different once the seats are in.
Re the front kick panels with speakers in them, did they cut out the steel behind to fit the speakers in or just massage it a little.
Love ya work, or in this case - someone else's 😀
Keep the photos coming. Kevin
StenGuns ·
Nah mate.. No cutting.. Just formed the scuttles to stand off the metal work. Leaves sufficient clearance for the speakers.. What ya mean not my work?.. It's my creative genius and my wallet thats getting tapped hard!
Camo wrote:Rob,
Carpet looks great and personally I think the gear boot and handbrake boot need something different. Just my thoughts and it may look totally different once the seats are in.
Re the front kick panels with speakers in them, did they cut out the steel behind to fit the speakers in or just massage it a little.
Love ya work, or in this case - someone else's 😀
Keep the photos coming. Kevin
Camo ·
Sorry Rob, no offence intended.
StenGuns ·
None taken Kev..
Camo wrote:Sorry Rob, no offence intended.
ian.mezz ·
I think i wont be getting a trophy🥲🥲
not that i get any, anyway🤪
StenGuns ·
A couple more of the rear seat..
.
.
.
.
Mick058 ·
looking good mate! Are you aiming for nats?
Mick058 ·
what are the slots in the upholstery for??? Are you locating your seatbelts under there?
Bizarre ·
wow...........stunning 😵💫
Camo ·
Rob,
This is top notch stuff, looks bloody beautiful and very luxurious.
Mick058 - re the slots, I also think its for the retractable seat belt to pass through. If you look at the earlier shot of just the foam setup, you will see the slot goes straight through the foam.
Rob, I must say you are making my car interior ideas feel very cheap and not worthy. I want your interior 👍
Well done, Kevin
Craig S ·
I think we need a new smilie, one that is green with envy 🙂
The entire thing looks fantastic. My kids would probably want to get in the back of yours, unlike mine when they whinge and complain. Well done.
beetleboyjeff ·
You will probably end up like me. My kids always complained about the back seat too. When they left home, I fanally found that I could afford to get it all re-done - now the grand kids like it.
ochevi ·
Geee Rob looks good, imagine what the big is going to look like after a detail with those bumpers . Who did your bodywork ??? The person who did it must be awsome.👍😵🤪 hahah guess who!!!
StenGuns ·
Good to see you are better on the tools than on the keyboard.. Now get back to work and clear some of those American Muscle shitboxes so I can get my next project indoors..
ochevi wrote:Geee Rob looks good, imagine what the big is going to look like after a detail with those bumpers . Who did your bodywork ??? The person who did it must be awsome.👍😵🤪 hahah guess who!!!
StenGuns ·
Here is a the back seat in position.. Some minor trim adjustment but the look is correct..
.
.
Camo ·
Beaaauuutttiiifffuulll - (dont know how you are meant to exaggerate a word, but I hope you say it how its meant to sound)
beetleboyjeff wrote:You will probably end up like me. My kids always complained about the back seat too. When they left home, I fanally found that I could afford to get it all re-done - now the grand kids like it.
I dont know if any kids will be allowed in the back of this car, or even the front for that matter. I'm already worried about my 5 year old daughter not looking after my car and its still bare metal 🤪
Kev
Camo ·
StenGuns wrote:The interior will be all new with leather connolly hide in light tan.. Say $5,000
Total Cost Say $30,000 once all the bits are on the car..
[ Edited on 10-9-07 by StenGuns ]
Gee Rob, how things change. Do you remember quoting these figures back in August 2007 and I bet you wish you were even close to this mark. Any updated photos for all us drooling over your ride.
Kev
StenGuns ·
Door Trim
.
.
trickysimon ·
👍
StenGuns ·
Here is a shot of the re-covered ProCar seats we are using..
.
.
.
Mick058 ·
looking good mate, its coming together - Can't beat the feel and smell of leather - except the price tag!
Camo ·
Mick058 wrote:looking good mate, its coming together - Can't beat the feel and smell of leather - except the price tag!
I agree, looking great. But I have to ask sorry, whats that on the door trim under the window winder (excuse this old bugger).
Kev
Craig S ·
That thing under the window winder had me guessing too. I was thinking it was a door puller so when you're sitting in the seat you don't pull on the window winder or door handle.
Either way it all looks great. Well done
Craig
JEN056 ·
Nice. This is a very neat resto. Bet you can't wait to cruise around in it.
StenGuns ·
Correct.. It is a recessed Grab Handle.. Always used to piss me off having to swing on the door or window handle.. Tendency to break off after time.. So I went with a tuck away handle.. I have mounted a normal (passenger side) arm rest/ handle on the drivers side before but they are seriously in the way and in the wrong position.. So this seemed a good result.. I may re-design or paint it when I finally get to see it,,
Gwendolyns Master wrote:That thing under the window winder had me guessing too. I was thinking it was a door puller so when you're sitting in the seat you don't pull on the window winder or door handle.
Either way it all looks great. Well done
Craig
Bizarre ·
Rob - did you say what the slots in the rear seats were for??
Wouldnt be seat belts as they are near your knees??
Got me intrigued?? 😵💫
Mick058 ·
i assumed they were seat belt slots for the front seats - that they would feed through.
Bizarre ·
Ahhh...........hidden reels under the seats 😍
Very nice touch
Well..............thats if that is what it is 😉
StenGuns ·
The inertia reels are actually recessed into the base of the B pillars.. There is a shot earlier in the thread..
Rob
Bizarre wrote:Ahhh...........hidden reels under the seats 😍
Very nice touch
Well..............thats if that is what it is 😉
StenGuns ·
Sorry.. So Yes, that is what the slots are for.. They are on the seat bolsters which is a seperate section to the seat cushion.. Meaning limited compression of the bolster and therefore the belt will continue to move freely
StenGuns wrote:The inertia reels are actually recessed into the base of the B pillars.. There is a shot earlier in the thread..
Rob
Bizarre wrote:Ahhh...........hidden reels under the seats 😍
Very nice touch
Well..............thats if that is what it is 😉
StenGuns ·
Just the front seats to go now.. This resto has nearly wiped me out (emotionally).. I am so over the whole deal.. Funny how you feel that way when you have rounded the final corner and the finish line is in site.. Totally lost interest
Here's a few shots for the faithful..
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
StenGuns ·
The PROCAR seat brackets which come with the seats were not used in the end.. They raise the seats far too high and the driver stance is all wrong.. So Mark from Blackneedle made up some new brackets... They look like my own attempt from 3 years ago!! (Faark.. three years.. has it really been that long?)
Mick058 ·
MATE, KEEP STRONG!!
Its a good resto - you'll get over it only for a little while, then remember why you did it - don't do anything silly while in the 'low' stage.
Looking the goods - bring it to NATS, show it off - then leave it for a bit!!! Then you'll love it all over again.
dangerous ·
Looking great now Rob.
I cant wait to see the whole car,
as I am betting everyone else is too.
Being able to drive it will be your reward for all those hours.
I miss not having a beetle I can drive on the road.
Volksies are pretty cool, especially one like yours that has a lot of TLC.
Flintstones ·
I feel your pain.
3 years is that all...you don't want to know how long I've been working on my oval then.
You've built a truely nice machine that you should be proud of and I'm sure others will agree.
It doesn't look like you've got that much left now, hang in there!!!
Cheers
Dino
StenGuns ·
Thank you for the motivation..
StenGuns ·
Car leaves Blackneedle next week and its off to Boris to fit the glass, window scrapers and a few other bits and bobs.. Then its down to Westi for a special fitting.. Then its down to Helensburgh for the Blades to be fitted.. The its off for tuning and rego.. FAAAARRRRKKKKK!!!
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Mick058 ·
very nice mate - blades fitted??
StenGuns ·
Not yet.. I had a set with towel rails.. The front straightened ok but the rear was out of shape, so I got an imported rear and had both sent to All Metal Bumpers for shaping and re-chroming.. The finish is superb.. Even had the braket holes filled and a step bracket made at the back so the finish is super smooth.. Just don't know where to fit the rego plate now..
Mick058 wrote:very nice mate - blades fitted??
Mick058 ·
yeh, i didn't want to pull holes in either - im not one for adding holes or chopping out metal work 😂😂
StenGuns ·
yeh right!!
Mick058 wrote:yeh, i didn't want to pull holes in either - im not one for adding holes or chopping out metal work 😂😂
colonel mustard ·
Looks amazing.....!!
Camo ·
Hi Rob,
You must be very happy with the result. The seating resembles a Ferrari interior to me, just my thoughts. Look forward to seeing the car in person. Would still like to have a look at the fuel line routing one day.
Kev
StenGuns ·
The beetle was delivered back to VW Village yesterday for final tuning, registration and fitting of wheels..
Here are some shots as it comes off the carrier.. It's looking exceptional..
Changed my mind about wheel selection.. I think the Escras are too "in your face" and the car would suit a moore "old school competition look.. maybe mangels (if I could find suitable hubcaps) or Fuch's.. 6.5" on the back and 5.5" on the front.. Any ideas or pictures of suitable wheels would be welcome..
here's some pix..
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Bizarre ·
W O W
👍
as for wheels i reckon you want something 16"
not TOO big
The car is fairly modern so not too old school
I am biased but i reckon some Boxsters
6's and 7's will fit nicley
yep - same as mine but 66deluxe has them on his as well
StenGuns ·
Show me what you mean Baz.. Are they wide 5?
Bizarre wrote:W O W
👍
as for wheels i reckon you want something 16"
not TOO big
The car is fairly modern so not too old school
I am biased but i reckon some Boxsters
6's and 7's will fit nicley
yep - same as mine but 66deluxe has them on his as well
Bizarre ·
mmmmm.... bugger
Forgot you are wide 5
When you said Fuchs i just thought Porsche
anyway here is what i meant
ian.mezz ·
I bet your a happy man to see it back on the road.
It looks great , .I hope to be able to have a better look at your work at the nationals
trickysimon ·
Looks great! Where did you get the 1916 script on the engine lid?
Flintstones ·
Definately go the 17" Escra's !!!
Also loose the black wiper arms, it looks out of place. get them chromed or something....
You must be so glad to see it almost finished.
Cheers
StenGuns ·
Esca's - Yes it will still be Escra's
1916 badge - Michael at VVDS got this done for me.. Thanks Mike
Wipers.. Easy to say, harder to do.. 6v windscreen and 12v assembly.. had to modify the arms.. Maybe chrome down the track.. maybe not.. the black look fine
Mick058 ·
looks like Nats will be the first outing!
StenGuns ·
I guess so.. Although I'll try and get a decent cruise in before then..
REGO TOMORROW
StenGuns ·
Finally Registered today..
Tune tomorrow
Wheels early next week..
Camo ·
Woohoo! Well done.
Kev
izac ·
looks awesome! 👍
i reckon if u could get your hands on some 16'' Randar wheels they would look sweet... (nearly exactly the same as the Escras except 16 inch) a guy called Randy in the states makes them. if not Escras would be my choice
StenGuns ·
trickysimon ·
😵
Mick058 ·
Nice!
Peak ay? Revealing the lot at Nats?
Camo ·
Rob,
Great choice. If I kept the wide five stud pattern, that's the wheel I wanted. But I would black out the sections where the wheel nuts are between each spoke, just my preference.
Kev
StenGuns ·
hehehehe 😎
Mick058 wrote:Nice!
Peak ay? Revealing the lot at Nats?
izac ·
looks awesome!!😍
Flintstones ·
Camo wrote:I would black out the sections where the wheel nuts are between each spoke, just my preference.
Kev
2nd that.
Cheers
D
silver ·
Flintstones wrote:
Camo wrote:I would black out the sections where the wheel nuts are between each spoke, just my preference.
Kev
2nd that.
Cheers
D
carry the motion??????
like this
StenGuns ·
Motion not carried
Mick058 ·
im with you Rob, i like the ring there.
Turbo54 ·
I'd second that!
T54
Camo ·
Rob,
your paying for it, so its what ever you want. I still like the wheels either way.
Kev
StenGuns ·
That's all good Kev.. Personal choice I guess.. I like them both ways as well however I've had the completed image in my head long enough now..
Just re the Nats.. May not get there now but you're always welcome to come take a look at my warehouse..
Rob
Mick058 ·
StenGuns wrote:Just re the Nats.. May not get there now but you're always welcome to come take a look at my warehouse..
Rob
Did i miss read that?
StenGuns ·
No mate.. The car will be ready.. just don't know about going.. You're local too, we can have a get together at my Mascot warehouse anytime
Camo ·
Rob,
What Mick said. And, I'm happy to come around when we can organise some time.
Again, love ya work.
Kev
Mick058 ·
Get together sounds good. One saturday morning soon if you dont come next week. Would love to see the car.
StenGuns ·
Well after two threads and 2.5 years doing a 90day re-build, the car is now finished and back in my warehouse.
I'm sure it will show up in other threads from time to time but (for now) that is the end of this project..
Next is a 71 dual door panel that has been waiting for a while..
Thanks to everyone for positive comments and keeping me motivated.. Rob
Bizarre ·
Well done
izac ·
that looks awesome!! well done
vwsteve ·
very nice😎
Camo ·
Next is a 71 dual door panel that has been waiting for a while..
No rest for the wicked, hey Rob. How about some more photos from every angle. We want more photos 😁
Your time for now should be to just enjoy it.
Kev
Mick058 ·
well done mate - looks BETTER then the goods
squizy ·
Nice work Rob. It's been a good thread to read through, although, I'd still like to see it on Sunday! 👍
StenGuns ·
I'll be there..
Flintstones ·
Turned out great Rob, look forward to seeing it at the Nats
Cheers
D
Craig S ·
Saw this today at the Nats, and it looks even better in the flesh/metal. A superb car. My son (who likes to annoy me by being rude about VWs) even approved and told me I was allowed to make mine just like it (that he got to sit in it also helped😁).
Top job 👍
Craig
StenGuns ·
Absolutely the best thing about doing this car was the great complements, smiles and good wishes that I got today.. It was by far the most popular with the ladies and I was chuffed to let kids sit in it and get their photos taken.. All in all an enormous complement for some hard yards done on a quality build.. Thanks to everyone..
Ohh.. And by the way.. I was called forward to accept 2nd prize in the 57-67 modified category which I was happy with.. But get this, I went to look at the 1st prize winner to discover it was Blue 1969 late beetle!!.. Graciously Bill Dawes from Club VW has recognised the error and will fix the prize record (not that it really matters)... So anycase.. My car gets 1st prize in that category!! I'll now get some photos done with the car and all the different shops that have done work on it over the re-build..
Rob
NullaDub ·
Yep.....looked great in the flesh. Display the trophy with pride !
Troy
Flintstones ·
Saw it today Rob, and it looked superb!!
Congrats.
D
Bizarre ·
Congrats Rob 👍
Well deserved
Mick058 ·
yeh mate well done, congrats on win - look the goods!
1303Steve ·
Hi
Well done.
Who did your running boards?
Steve
Camo ·
Looked good, smelt good and even felt good. Yes I am talking about the car and not the girls in red (thanks Boris). You would know what I'm talking about if you were lucky enough to sit your arse in the drivers seat.
Thanks Rob and congratulations.
Kev
XXX-1.8T ·
post some pics mate couldnt make it today damn flu!
beetleboyjeff ·
Congratulations, it looked great. Now to enjoy it.
vw54 ·
Rob
Congratulations didnt get a chance to talk with you, didnt get a chance to look at the cars either
westi ·
me niether.
so some pic's would be great.
StenGuns ·
I didn't take any photos myself.. If anyone has a few of my car I would love to see them also.. I have a good mate doing a photoshoot in the next few days hopefully
Craig S ·
Here's some photos. Looking back I wish I'd spent more time taking them, especially of the engine.
Craig S ·
one more
Turbo54 ·
Looks great, I would still paint/polish the escaras but that is me. Love the way the colour enhances the curves of the car. Exactly what I am wanting of my colour. Especially love the way the front guard look. Drool.
T54
StenGuns ·
Hows the grin on the girl in the passenger seat.. Love it!!
I must be getting old and sentimental..🙄
Special Air Service ·
Congrats Rob,
Spoke to you briefly about your exhaust, great result for effort put in.
I was absolutely stoked to see you letting the kids have a sit in the car, thats the sort of thing that makes their day. Hats off to you, not sure if I'd be so free & easy with a car as fresh as yours.
Cheers
Brendan
XXX-1.8T ·
Looks stunning i want to do the same thing to Shazza when i give it to my son.
I better start saving over the next 18 years 😏
psimitar ·
Sweet ride dude 🙂 All the hard work and money earned to complete the project payed off.
sgetty ·
absolutly beautifull!!!!
Camo ·
No, No, No
Rob,
How could you bring yourself to let it go after all the hard work and costs.
Anyway, good luck with the sale. I will be watching it 😎