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VW Convertibles
gingernutta - September 3rd, 2005 at 09:05 PM

Hi

I heard that a sedan configured to a convertible can alter the stability of the body and more importantly, change the airflow/air-cooling. is this right? I am looking at a 69 convertible (non-manufactured) and the owner says he has not had any trouble. Should I steer clear or what?

Appreciate any advice, thoughts etc

blutopless2 - September 4th, 2005 at 08:30 PM

many years ago i was looking at converting a 69 sedan to convertible and was told by the mechanic that to pass the engineers certificate it would need structural improvement up both pillars (behind the doors) and accross the floorpan as it would be severely weakened by making it into a convertible. I guess as long as it has passed the necessary regulations on modifications etc it should be ok.
it would be interesting to see what changes vw made between the sedans and convertibles.
as for the cooling etc... not sure if it would be effected...
good luck and hth

vw54 - September 5th, 2005 at 07:32 AM

Yep u have read correct STAY clear of it... spend your money on a good sedan or save up n buy a real Cabrio

mscabrio - September 8th, 2005 at 01:55 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by blutopless2
many years ago i was looking at converting a 69 sedan to convertible and was told by the mechanic that to pass the engineers certificate it would need structural improvement up both pillars (behind the doors) and accross the floorpan as it would be severely weakened by making it into a convertible. I guess as long as it has passed the necessary regulations on modifications etc it should be ok.
it would be interesting to see what changes vw made between the sedans and convertibles.
as for the cooling etc... not sure if it would be effected...
good luck and hth



WHAT ?????? WHEN ???????? i hope that it wasn't one of mine that you were planning on chopping the roof off!


I agree with VW54, buy a genuine cabrio ..... believe me, it is so worth it

Fossil - September 14th, 2005 at 05:17 PM

Go the cab - some out there for the sale all you got to do is find themnn[ Edited on 9/14/2005 by Fossil ]

sugarlips - September 24th, 2005 at 06:39 PM

...it was 'converted' in 91. They had to put lots of extra metal underneath for stability (which can be a pain over speedhumps etc), there are still a number of them on the roads so long as it has all the right paperwork you shouldnt be too worried, yes its noisier in the wet & wind but it depends on how good a job it was & how well the hood fits, id be more concerned that its roadworthy & has a strong rollbar. I bet the one you're looking at is inexpensive & you'll love it to bits in summertime!

Wouldnt want to be in a smash with one tho - the rear of mine is mostly fibreglass post-chop...
Regards

S

MISS VDUB - October 2nd, 2005 at 08:12 PM

I have never had any problems with mine, nor has anyone else i know that has one. Mine was chopped professionally years ago by the Bug Factory, so it was strengthened as well, some back yard jobs may not have this extra strenthening? Those who have complained about roofs leaking is only due to the fact they are too cheap to find a decent upholsterer who knows what they are doind (and there are alot of upholsterers who have no idea how to make a convertible roof for a beetle that fits or looks right)

Plus not everyone can afford a new cabrio guys, so we have fun with what we've got, and i love mine! :thumb

Bug26 - October 5th, 2005 at 10:00 PM

I brought mine 18 months ago, when it rains I get wet, when its cold I freeze, with the roof on the wind comes in everywhere, but its the best fun to drive. The kids love it and the wife is starting to come around very very slowly:P