Been a while since my last Syd update. Actually, a lot has happened. Almost all functionality has returned, with the noticeable exception of the gas gauge, which has been vexing in its intransigence. Moreover, the convertible top has been installed and … Continued
2018 has shown up with a vengeance. The thermometer straddles 0 degrees F. However the KdF lab is comfortable and toasty due to the nifty HVAC system that I had installed when I purchased the building (more on that in … Continued
Getting a forty-year old VW engine to turn over (for the first time in the car) on a snowy afternoon. This is the engine that had the engine fire meltdown. My first engine rebuild. Had been tested on chassis. However … Continued
Syd is moving along. Most body parts have been rattle-can primed and test fitted. A new wiring harness was ordered and installed. This was a bit tricky due to the fact that the 1979 model year had a fuel injected … Continued
Joined the upper (body shell) and lower (chassis) halves of Syd together. Now at least I can roll her around. Back luggage shelf/ engine firewall. All of this had to be rebuilt. The silver stuff is ‘Peel … Continued
I ‘bench tested’ Syd’s 1600 dual port engine today. This was the engine that had almost been entirely consumed in an engine fire. This was kind of a do or die moment, as this engine was the first one that … Continued
Now that the CV joints are done (yuck) it’s time to tackle the brakes. Each wheel on a stock beetle has a traditional drum break, with shoes and a cylinder that connects to the hydraulic lines. When the brake … Continued
Replaced Syd’s CV joints (these take the power from the engine and drive the rear wheels; interestingly they allow the axle to move in any direction while wheels spin). The rubber boots almost always roach after 30-40 … Continued