The Cal-look Lounge

Hello Cal-Look Lounge!

I been restoring my 58 bug for about a year now on and off, and though I'd post a few photos of how its going. The plan is to build a early cal look beetle, the car I always wanted.  :)

The car is fairly solid, if not a bit rough around the edges, but in fairly good shape for a 58!

Heres a few photos to give you a idea of what i started off with.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Dudes58Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Dudes582Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Dudes583Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Dudes586Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Dudes581Small.jpg)


However, after stripping the car down it became evident she needed a bit more work than originally thought! (Isn’t it always the case!  ::))

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Workneeded3Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/WorkneededSmall.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Workneeded4Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Workneeded2Small.jpg)


Therefore in typical ‘Dude’ style the first thing I decided to do was to fit a Goldie ragtop! The car was actually a solid roof model. However, I had a genuine Goldie roof section from a 63, and the roof was badly dented, so I decide to fit it. Cheers to Phil from Autobodyworx for his help with the install. (I got loads more photos of this process if anyone’s interested! Or still awake after getting this far!  ;D)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/roofchop003Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/roofchop029Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/roofchop034Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/roofchop041Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/roofchop051Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/roofchop054Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/roofchop084Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/roofchop100Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/roofchop105Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/roofchop113Small.jpg)


Next up came the repairs to the front clip and spare wheel well. I decide that these panels were to far gone and thus I fitted new items, which also ended up in me doing both side of the nose sections. The front valance is an Autocraft pressing which is brilliant (I can't recomend Autocraft enough! Their panels are spot on! :)), and the others are aftermarket panels re-shaped to match the original 58 steelwork.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Nosesectionrepair1Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Nosesectionrepair2Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Nosesectionrepair45Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Nosesectionrepair8Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/WheelWell2Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/WheelWell4Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/WheelWell5Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Frontvalance01Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Frontvalance02Small.jpg)


As usual nothing went easy, and I had to split the nose sections to fit the valance and wings, as well as splitting the wheel well!  Oh well, it all fitted in the end!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Frontvalance03Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Frontvalance05Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Frontvalance08Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Frontvalance10Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Frontvalance11Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Frontvalance14Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Frontvalance15Small.jpg)

Ayway, I done plenty more, but taken me ages to post all that, and i better get some sleep!

I'll put some more up soon if anyones interested! :)

Dude  8)

Nice work so far! What are the future plans (color, drivetrain, wheels, etc.)?

wow  :o   nice...  yes, please give us some details how she will look like.

Hey Dude, i recognize you from beetle crisis!!! :D

Nice looking work. Keep us updated on your progress.

--louis

LOL! I didn’t realize this forum didn’t send you an email when somebody posted, so I didn’t know anyone had commented! Thanks for all the positive and supportive comments!  :)  :)  :)

I've actually done loads more than this, so I’ll update you with some more photo's after this! (Prepare to be very bored!  :D)

Here’s a sort of ruff idea that I’ve got in my head (a scary place!) of what I want the car to look like. It's gonna be a cal looker, but not a strict call looker as I want to keep the trim and quarter lights etc. I put some slicks on it in the photo as it will be used occasionally on the track, but it's gonna be mainly a street car. I’ve got a full out race car, but now I wanna build something I can enjoy on the street! :)

Anyway enough waffle, here’s a rough idea of what she’s gonna look like!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Dudes58.jpg)

Dude  8)

LOL! The tv put pounds on you! I'm not really that fat!  :D  :D

Dude  8)

So here’s some more!  :)

Next up was the channel. Although initially it looked as if there were only a few holes in it, once it was cleaned up I realized it was worse than I thought! ::)

I decide to replace just the outer channel rather than the whole thing as the inner side was rock solid as well as most of the bottom plate, and I’m trying to keep the car as original as possible.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Heaterchannel1Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Heaterchannel2Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Heaterchannel3Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Heaterchannel4Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Heaterchannel5Small.jpg)


A repair panel was used from GSF. However this did not have the original ‘indents’ so I mad a tool up and pressed these in! (Geek alert!  :D)
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Heaterchannel6Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Heaterchannel7Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Heaterchannel8Small.jpg)


Next up was the A post. I used one of the excellent Hookey’s repair panels (God I’m sounding like a commercial for panel suppliers!  ;D ). For once this panel went in pretty easy! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/ApostSmall.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Apost1Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Apost2Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Apost3Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Apost4Small.jpg)


Next up was putting the rear quarter back in. This actually took me two attempt to get right, as I wasn’t happy with the fit the first time, but it went in well in the end! (I don’t seem to have many photos oh this. :( Thank god I hear you say!  ;D)

I wanted to get the panel exactly the same as the original, however the GSF repair panel that I used did not have the original drain holes (the 3 half moons at the bottom). Therefore I made a pressing tool to put these back in (Yes I really am a geek!  ;D).

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Quarter1Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Quarter2Small.jpg)


Next  was repair the inner wheel arch! Now this was hard, as you can get repair panels which are anywhere near the correct pressings! Thus I (with the help of Phil from autobodyworx again!) hand made most of these!

As can be seen in the first photo this area is pretty bad, so using measurement taken from the other side I tried to recreate the panels as per standard spec. It would have been better to do it from one sheet, but this was a bit to complex so I did it from a few panels, which I think turned out alright. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/WheelarchSmall.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Wheelarch1Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Wheelarch2Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Wheelarch3Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Wheelarch4Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Wheelarch5Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Wheelarch6Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Wheelarch7Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Wheelarch8Small.jpg)

Next i did the rear quarter stud line. This was generally not to bad, and as the rest of the inner quarter panel was solid I decide to repair the rust holes rather than do the whole panel. Where the welded on nut were removed I re-used the original ones, by cleaning them up and welded them back on!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/StudlineSmall.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Studline1Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Studline2Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Studline3Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Studline4Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Studline5Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Studline6Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Studline7Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Studline8Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Studline9Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Studline10Small.jpg)


The rear bumper mount from the outside looked reasonably ok. However, looking at it from the underneath showed a few small holes. Once the bumper hanger was removed these small holes became a lot of rot!  I decide to replace the whole area here using a wolf bumper repair panel. Although these panels cost the same as the third world debt, they are excellent being perfect reproductions, and also a very good fit. Although it took a fair bit of measuring, the panel was actually fairly simple to fit.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Rearbumperhanger1Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Rearbumperhanger2Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Rearbumperhanger3Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Rearbumperhanger5Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Rearbumperhanger6Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Rearbumperhanger7Small.jpg)


The next photos are for the panel geeks.  ;D

Underneath the rear seats, although solid for an early car, a bit of rot had crept in. Although I could have got away with a simple flat plate here I again decided to copy the original pressing. (NOTE: I know the weld haven’t been fully ground back! I gotta finish this!)

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/InnerrearseatSmall.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Innerrearseat1Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Innerrearseat2Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Innerrearseat3Small.jpg)


These photos need no real explanation. The fuel tank lip was rotten so it got replaced!  :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/FueltanklipSmall.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Fueltanklip1Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Fueltanklip3Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Fueltanklip4Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Fueltanklip5Small.jpg)

The gutter had also started to lift in a few places, so these were removed, and sand blasted underneath, with new steel being folded over and welded on.

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/GuttersSmall.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Gutters1Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Gutters2Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Gutters3Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Gutters4Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Gutters5Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Gutters6Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Gutters7Small.jpg)

So that where I’ve got to!  :) I hope it hasn’t bored you to much!  ;D

The next step is to finish the small (but one of the most difficult so far!) repair to the corner of the front window pillar. Then its the day I been waiting for for ages when I can finally turn the car round and see what needs doing on the other side! Or maybe I’ll try and straighten the genuine vert deck lid I got that looks like its been run over by a steam roller!  ;D

Dude  8)

hey -- the car you have in mind -- looks a bit like mine ;-)

http://turtle.skynetblogs.be

Nice work dude!

Lot's of surgery to get this bug a new life  :)

Keep up the good work.  :D

Wow! Your car is stunning! If mine looks anywhere near as good as that I will be very very happy! :)

Whats colour the paint? Is it Fyord Blue?

Dude  8)

Dude,

Your enthusiasm and energy are making me tired!

Got my lazy ass oustide yesterday and started clearing the '62 so we can tow it over to Bobs and get on with it.  Found a programme in it from Big Bang 2001, the last time I drove it  :( 

Good work mate, just hope I don't find as much rot as you  ;)

See you at Tatton?

George

Hi Dude!

What do you mean rot! She's had a few minor repairs!  ;D

I cant wait for yo get the 62 sorted! I heard about it, but never seen it! Bet its finished before my 58 is!!  ;D

Not sure about Tatton dude? If i can convince Nat to have a round trip to my folks as well we might come up _{(in the mini!)}

Hope you and Rach are cool. Everything cool here as ever, busy working on my 58, Nat's splitty, were doing major building work in the house (I sledge hammered a wall down last night! It was great!  ;D), oh and some actual work sometimes!!

I'll give you a call at the weekend for a gossip!

Dude  8)

Dude,

I would'nt put money on me finishing before you as we are planning on working on the notch too and putting in some lovely fresh heater channels.  Add Bob's cars to the list and we might be done by 2012!

Be good top see you at Tatton but it is a hell of a round trip for you!
Smashing walls down with sledge hammers is great, especially if you do it late at night, neighbours love it.

Speak soon mate.

George  :)

Dude!

The '58 is looking cool!!  ;D I'm definately going to employ you to help with the rebuild on ours  :D :D and you George  :D :D

We just had our shell media blasted at Marrawise in Cov and they've done a cracking job!! It only cost me £100 and they put in primer afterwards too!

Cheers 58 brother! :)

You know i'll always help you with your car! :)

Thats a cracking price on the sandbalsting! I could be very tempted by that! I know some people say it bad as you cant block all the holes up and you get media inside, but then i plan to build a jig to rotate the shell 360 degress anyway, so hopefull i can get most of the grit out!

I also plan to give you a call soon dude!

Oh, and if you email me your paypal details i'll sort that money out from EBI by the way!  :)


Dude  8)

Oh I see, Dude gets an invite before me and I let you ride in the notch at EBI :P And what about Ade?  Mind you he's having far too much fun now he's got the new motor running right.  I predict a new gearbox soon.  You supply the Jupiler and we'll be there mate.  Hope you and Adele are good.  Need to talk soon too.

George  :)

 ;D ;D

So Ade's finally got it in and running! Cool!!

Yeah we're all good, just working hard but more so at 'work'  ::) Your NOS heater channel is still safely tucked away at ours too  :)

Thanks mate.  Six NOS ones have come up for sale this week in Manchester  :o but all are O/S and I need a N/S one now.  Got a text from Ade yesterday, part of it said full throttle in second on boost rules   ;D  I knew there'd be trouble when he got in with that bad crowd  :P
PS work sucks.

George  :)

PS work sucks.

George  :)
[/quote]

Yes, yes it does.

Hi guys.  ;)

Yes, yes it does.

Hi guys.  ;)
[/quote]

Ello dude,

Yep works sucks, but it nearlly home time! :)

Bring on the welder!  ;D

Dude  8)

Yes, yes it does.

Hi guys.  ;)
[/quote]

Hello mate, welcome to dude's 58 ragtop beetle restoration thread  :P :)

Hope you guys are good.  Was good to see you at EBI even if was brief and in the pouring rain.

George  :)

It was great to see you guys.

Your car is the nuts mate, I love it.   :)

Thanks mate  :)  it takes a lot of blissful ignorance to create that much patina  ;) that and a lack of garage space. 
When are we going to see your lowlight? 

George

Soon.   ;)

Update!

I done a bit more! Not loads, but it was a quite a tricky repair, as it was really awkward to make the inner and outer panels needed (Cheers Phil for making it on your shrinker stretcher! Brilliant tool! :) ), and also really awkward to get the welder in.

Anyway here’s the repair to the hole in the front window corner.

At last! Time to turn the car round and see how bad the other side is!! :)

Dude  8)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/DSC00147.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/DSC01306.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/DSC01307.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/DSC01309.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/DSC01316.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/DSC01400.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/DSC01403.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/DSC01404.jpg)

Great effort Dude quality work  :)

Thanks dude!  :)

Was good to see you and the Mrs at EBI! :)

Dude  8)

Nice work !!,  and very useful to others .
Keep it up ..
Regards
Erich

Not much more progress to write home about!

However, a bit of a warning. Always make sure you got the correct safety gear on!

I was grinding and cutting on Friday night, and some dust/ grit bounced off my check and up under the safety glasses I was wearing. I thought nothing more of it until a day later when my eye started to really hurt. Anyway to cut a long story short I ended up having to go to casualty, and had 5 shards of steel picked out my eye with a needle!

Thus, I’ll be wearing goggles, rather than safety glasses from now on! ::)

Dude  8)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/gammyeyesmall.jpg)

Cheers Erich!

Comments like this keep me motivated! :)

Dude 8)

amazing work been following this on vzi also. look forward to seeing it finished. Alex

Nice to see repairs done that keep as much German steel as possible, even if it takes twice as long!! Worth all the effort me thinks dude!! Keep it up!!
 ;D
cheers
Lee

Kraftwerk

Custom, Speed & Resto

07889 178 638

Staffordshire, UK

Dude,

ouch.  Hope you are feeling better mate 

You'll be glad to hear that the '62 has rot around the screen in exactly the same spot as you repaired.  Barker did a good job on the repair piece for you.

George  :)

Cheers mate, eyes slowly getting better!

Gutted about the notch window repair!  :(

Hopefully it will only be the outer skin. On mine we had to do the inner an outer! The outer was actually a hookys panel, and the inner Phil swaged into a bit of steel, and then bent it round using a shrinker stretcher (great tool!). The sketchy weldings all me! :) It took ages!

Hope all's well,

Dude  8)

The notch is fine and dandy mate, its the '62 bug that has the rot  :(
I like Steve's method of media blasting the shell, shows up all that lovely free rot that you get from living on a cold damp island  ;)
Posting on here is far easier and quicker than texting you, you reply within a day or so and not 3 weeks  ;) ;D
Hope your eye is nearly better and you are back in the garage.

George :)

Finally got a bit more done!  :)

After cleaning up the A post and front quarter with a cup brush I found a small hole on the inside and a larger one on the outside of the A post, as well as one hole at the front of the quarter. 

It was a close decisions as to whether to replace the whole A post, but in the end I decided to keep as much genuine steel as I could, and to just let some new steel in where the holes were.

Although it’s not a lot, it's taken me the best part of a week after work, but I was happy with the result in the end! :)

Dude  8)

Front quarter repair
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Front1Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Front2Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Front3Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Front4Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Front5Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Front6Small.jpg)


Inner A post repair.
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Innerrepair1Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Innerrepair2Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Innerrepair3Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Innerrepair4Small.jpg)


Outer A Post repair.
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/OuterrepairSmall.jpg)

Here’s what I found when the A post was opened up!!  :o
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Outerrepair1Small.jpg)

However, it was soon cleaned up.  :)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Outerrepair2Small.jpg)

And painted inside to stop the rot!
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Outerrepair3Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Outerrepair4Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Outerrepair5Small.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Outerrepair6Small.jpg)

Anyway not loads, but a bit more progress! :)

Dude  8)

Looks like some quality work! After looking at all of your pictures, I don't feel so scared of replacing the heater channel in my '63 this winter.

Haven’t had a chance to do much on the 58 recently.  However I did manage to find a spare weekend, and repair the passenger side heater channel. This side was actually a lot better than the drivers side as I didn't have to replace the bottom of the rear quarter!  :)

Anyway here’s what I had to start with.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/channel.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/channel1.jpg)

Although these small rust holes probably could have been patched I thought it would be better to just do the whole side so that the rust wouldn’t be back in a few years time.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/channel2.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/channel3.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/channel4.jpg)

A repro panel was again used, and again it was modified to be exactly the same as per original (See the notches! Buffer heaven!  ;D)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/channel5.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/channel6.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/channel7.jpg)

All that was left then was to weld her in!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/channel8.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/channel9.jpg)

I was pleased with how this went as I managed to keep the original bottom of the quarter with the half moon pressing!  Geeky I know, but I like it! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/channel10.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/channel11.jpg)

And finally a lick of paint! (Yes, I know its not dry! I was excited!)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/channel12.jpg)

Anyway I was pleased with how this went so I thought I’d share it with you all. Sorry if it a bit boring!  ;D

Dude  8)

its not boring mate its resurrection ;)

Nice work guys, looks like that mountains about climbed. again nice work. and keep the pictures and progress coming.

Great work and skills! This is so inspiring!
I've got a 59 ragtop outside my garage at moment, it's freezing cold now, but some day I hope I can put up a project thread here too. BTW - the welding is done on this, also prepped for use on the strip by Jee Racing. Need to get my hands on a complete 58-59 car with an ID, cause it's just a bare shell.
Keep the pics and comments coming!
brgds
Andy

Thanks all for the positive comments! It comments like these that keep me motivated to keep work on it! At times is can be difficult to keep motivation as the restoration is taking so long. But I think in the end it will be much better than just patching up and using loads of filler.  :)

67pickup - Get your ragtop project going dude and get a thread up on here! Sounds like you got much less work to do than I have, even despite the lack of chassis! :)

Dude 8)

that is simply awesome work.....keep it up and cant wait to see the finished product.

Happy New Year Everyone!   :)

Haven’t got much done recently on the bug what with Christmas, New Years, Oh and getting engaged! (Cheers Nat, your a brave girl!) ;D

However last week I managed to get a few days working on the bug despite the artic like conditions here in the UK (I had to actually scrape ice of a panel I was working on!) and managed to do a repair I've been dreading! The rear inner arch/ rear boot section. I was luck enough to actually find a panel that had been cut out of a car, so the work was much quicker compared to the other side.  :)

Anyway, Here’s what I started off with.  :(

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR1.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR2.jpg)

Next up I began to cut away the rotten steel work, and prepare the panels to be welded too/ sealed up.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR3.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR4.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR5.jpg)

Here's how the donor panel sat. Not a bad fit. It good to have actuall genuine panels! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR6.jpg)

Time to weld it in and smooth the welds back. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR7.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR8.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR9.jpg)

Next up was the small repair on the boot floor. I don’t know anywhere that actually reproduces this panel so it had to be hand formed. However, I had to do the same repair on the other side and while I made that panel up I also did one for this side! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR10.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR11.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR12.jpg)

Finally I just had to repair the rear quarter where it meets the wing stud line. I used part of a repair panel, however it had to be reshaped a lot to actually get it to fit as well as it does.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR13.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR14.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR15.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR16.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSQR17.jpg)

Anyway that where I am to date! Sorry if I’ve bored everyone again!  :P

Dude  8)

Pics like that are never boring. I'm about to do the same repair on my car...

It's nice to follow a "rust"oration with pictures.
Great work,and keep the pic's  posting  ;)

The only thing boring is waiting for the thread to load due to photobucket images :-)
But good work on the restoration :-D

LOL! It's a good job i didnt post the full series of 40 photos i took on the repair then!  ;D

Cheers all for the posative comments!  :)

I'll do some more and post some pics once the ice age leaves the UK!  ;D

Dude  8)

Looks ace Dude.

Its hard to appreciate all the work that goes into something like this when you see it in the flesh finished.  The before and after photo's really show how much work is involved in repairing something correctly.

Keep up the good work fella.

See you at club tonight.   :)

Cheers mate, really appreciated! :)

LOL! Your probably one of the few people who DOES appreciate all the work that goes into this. I spend ages boring you on the phone telling you about the new panel I formed/ welded/ shaped etc!!  ;D

See ya later at club dude! (in the ghia?!  ;) ;D)

Dude  8)

mate,

that is seriously impressive work.  :)

see you soon,

J.

must-stop-making-babies-and-fixing-house-up-must-stop-making-babies-and-fixing-house-up-must-stop-making-babies-and-fixing-house-up-must-stop-making-babies-and-fixing-house-up

Hi Dude....the 58 is looking awesome...but for some reason the picture of wot u want it to look like when finished, looks rather familiar to me....! ;)

Dude, You are my inspiration!  ;D

No actually your car is genuinely a very big inspiration to me! :)

Dude  8)

What colour is yours painted by the way? Is it the same as Steve and Dellys?

P.S. More updates on the welding marathon soon. I been saving up a big chunk to put up all at once! :)

Dude  8)

dont...u will make me blush....mine originally was the same as steves and dellys...but mine is now indigo blue...like tigers from A1 mufflers

Right i finally got a bit more done worth putting up!

Firstly i repaired the rear wheel arch studline...........

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSRearQuarterWheelArchBoltHoleRe-2.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSRearQuarterWheelArchBoltHoleRe-1.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSRearQuarterWheelArchBoltHoleRepai.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSRearQuarterWheelArchBoltHoleRe-9.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSRearQuarterWheelArchBoltHoleRe-8.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSRearQuarterWheelArchBoltHoleRe-7.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSRearQuarterWheelArchBoltHoleRe-6.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSRearQuarterWheelArchBoltHoleRe-5.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSRearQuarterWheelArchBoltHoleRe-4.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PSRearQuarterWheelArchBoltHoleRe-3.jpg)


.....................and then i replaced the rear bumper hanger with the excelent wolf repair panel!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PassengerSideRearBumperHangerRep-8.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PassengerSideRearBumperHangerRep-2.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PassengerSideRearBumperHangerRep-1.jpg)

To get all the rust off i sandblasted the underside panel! It did a really god job, but made a really big mess!!  ;D

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PassengerSideRearBumperHangerRepair.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PassengerSideRearBumperHangerRep-11.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PassengerSideRearBumperHangerRep-10.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PassengerSideRearBumperHangerRep-9.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PassengerSideRearBumperHangerRep-7.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PassengerSideRearBumperHangerRep-6.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PassengerSideRearBumperHangerRep-5.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PassengerSideRearBumperHangerRep-4.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PassengerSideRearBumperHangerRep-3.jpg)

And thats up to date now! Cant wait to get a new rear valance and weld it in! :)

It's really nice to be able to see the end of the weldathon!  ;D

Dude :cool:  8)

Quality work  ;)

Michael

Excellent job!  Can't wait to see the finished version.  Nice craftsmanship Dude   ;D

Good to meet you today dude,

Here are the links to my stuff:

The cal-look '62:

http://www.volkszone.com/VZi/showthread.php?t=482156&page=1

and the nitrous notch:

http://www.volkszone.com/VZi/showthread.php?t=474643

tom.

Good to meet you as well fella! :)

Dude, the work you have done on the bug is oustanding! It puts me to shame!

I REALLY like the look of the bug as well! :)

And as for the Notch, absolutly stunning!

Gonna have a proper perv through these threads tonight when i get home from work! :D

Dude :cool:

Looking good mate, do you want a job!! :)

Yeah! Get the kettle on, I'm on me way down!  ;D

Cheers about the bug dude.  :)

Hope all's well with you mate.

Dude  8)

Cheers! But I disagree, your work is awesome, It's gonna look great when you get round to paint, I'm looking forward to seeing it on mine too, after a trip to SPL that is!

I've had the hoosiers stuck on the Notch's rear fuchs already, should get 'em back tomorrow. Better start on the engine build if its gonna be done for this year!

tom.  :)

Right, I finally done something thats worth posting up!  ;D

The first part of this was siamising two brake fluid resevoirs together, as the car will be duel circuit, and I didn't want to fit a later plastic reservoiur.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/BrakeFluidResevoir25.jpg)

I was actually really pleased with how this looked.  :)

Next up was to cut the wheel well to accept it, and adjust the pressing. I was really nervous about doing as if I messsed it up their was no going back!  :'(

Anyway here's how it turned out! I think i'm happy with it!  ;D

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/BrakeFluidResevoir01.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/BrakeFluidResevoir04.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/BrakeFluidResevoir05.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/BrakeFluidResevoir07.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/BrakeFluidResevoir11.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/BrakeFluidResevoir13.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/BrakeFluidResevoir18.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/BrakeFluidResevoir21.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/BrakeFluidResevoir23.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/BrakeFluidResevoir24.jpg)

Anyway, just thought I'd give you a bit more of a update! :)

Dude  8)

That looks bitchin

well done dude  ;)

Nice!!

Wow - that looks great!

Sweet work!

TIDY! :D ;)

Nice work dude- I like it!! (Can I copy it???)

Finally done a bit more work on the 58 that's worth putting up!  :)

Firstly a job I wasn’t looking forward to, I sorted out the passenger’s side gutter.

Here's a shot of the gutter.


(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gutters01.jpg)

Although it was generally pretty good, there were two bits that needed sorting out. Here’s how I sorted out one of the said 'bad spots'.

Where the gutter were showing signs of rust, they were opened out, sand blasted (horrible job!  ::)), primed with weld through primer and then shut up.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gutters09.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gutters10.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gutters11.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gutters12.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gutters13.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gutters14.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gutters15.jpg)

And here's the gutter all finished!  :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gutters25.jpg)



Next up was the bit I've been saving till last (well nearly last!). Fitting the rear valance! :)

Due to replacing the bumper hangers on both sides the valance was already out, but the inner seal panel had been left in as a guide, so it was time to remove it!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RearValance02.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RearValance05.jpg)

I used a new panel from Autocraft as I wanted it with a single central exhaust cut out. Big thanks to Karl for getting this exactlly spot on for me! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RearValance10.jpg)

As I’m a detail geek, I had to add in the wire holders that run inside the panel! (Yes I know I need to get out more!  ;D)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RearValance14.jpg)

Next up was trial fitment. Notice the panel doesn’t line up very well with the wings, and the gap on the engine lid is way out.  ???

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RearValance16Checkingthefitbad.jpg)

However, after a lot of fettling (including reshaping all the edges of the hanger panels where they meet the valence) I got the panel to line up much better!  :) At this stage everything was loosely bolted up to make sure it all fitted right! I love this shot with the T bars on! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RearValance25CheckingthefitBetter.jpg)

However, not all fitted right, and this shot shows how bad the seal channels line up. :(

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RearValance28.jpg)

This was soon sorted out though! (Sadly I havn't got a photo of the finished panel.  >:()

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RearValance29.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RearValance30.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RearValance31.jpg)

Finally time to weld the rear valence in! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RearValance41.jpg)

And then grind back and paint!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RearValance43.jpg)

And finally she’s in! :) I'm much happier with the final fit now, as the engine lid sits nice, with good small gaps!  :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RearValance50.jpg)



The last bit I did was only a small job, but was an absolute nightmare, to get it looking right, as well as clear of everything!

I've got a glass SWF washer bottle that I was going to put in the car, but I wanted it to look factory, as if it always came with it. I know most people put it in the wheel well next to the brake fluid pot, but I still wanted to run a spare wheel, as I am going to use the car. Thus I came up with this location, up in the under bonnet area. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/SWFWasherBracket04.jpg)

It took a lot of measuring (a sitting in the bonnet area with the bonnet closed!  ;D), but I finally got it in the right place so the hinge doesn’t hit it when it closes! I'm really pleased with this! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/SWFWasherBracket01.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/SWFWasherBracket02.jpg)

Anyway, other than a few little bit's, that the body fully done now! :)

TIme to move on to building the chasis, and trial fitting everything! :)

Dude  8)

Looks great, as always Dude.

How long before it goes to paint?   ;)

Cheers mate. :)

Maybe sooner than you think!  ;)

Dude  8)

can you pop up to enfield next summer and sort mine out :) TIA ;D

Yes, if you want me living at your house for 6 months!! ;D

It's taken me ages to do all this!!  ;D

Dude  8)

Hey Dude, you're doin' great job !  8) 8) 8)

Dude, wicked job!! any chance you could show me how u make the tooling to make the pressings in your panels!! they look great, and i wanna do the same! ;D

cheers

Cheers Dude!  :)  :)

I'd be happy to let you know how i did the panels! :)  Which pressing in particular?

Dude  8)

Looks good dude!

Looking good dude :)

tom.

Done a bit more work recently, and a job I thought would only take me a few days actually took 2 weeks! ::)

I've fitted a set of early Porsche 911 seats!  :)

Now whilst the actual size of the seats is similar to a stock Beetle they actually mount very differently. In a Porsche they are fixed directly to runners on the floor, where as a beetle has a frame that raises the seat.  This meant that after removing the seats of the stock runner frames I then had to section the seat to take about 50mm out of them to get them to the right height. However, when they were slid back the seat now caught the tunnel at the back of the runners so I then had to add 20mm BACK INTO the seat frame at the back to lift the back of the seat up and clear. Add to this having to custom make stops, and catches for the seat backs so that they didn’t just fall back and locked in position it was a lot of work.

Anyway I’m really pleased with the end result. :)

Here’s them mounted in my daily (also another 59!) :)

Dude  8)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PorscheSeatsFitted1640x480.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PorscheSeatsFitted2640x480.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PorscheSeatsFitted4-Runners640x480.jpg)

Awesome work as ever Dude ;D

Cheers mate!  8)

Really long time no see! Hope all is well fella! :)

Dude  8)

I was thinking the same,

All Well this end, Hope to bump into you and yours some stage soon ;D

top class work dude  ;D good to see we are good at more than just rugby !

fantastic work Dude.....really nice details!

God is in the details!! you've got it down to a tee!!!

i was wondering about the pressings on the panels beneath the rear seat, in the corner. i asked a while ago how you made the pressings. if you could show me that would be great!
many thanks
Lee ;D

At last I done some more work with showing! This time not more bodywork, but the fuel system! :)

Here the components of the front half of my fuel system (minus a few fittings). Note the black (stealth) fuel fittings.  I'm trying to do the whole system in black and blue fittings where possible, as ii don’t really like the usual red and blue fittings. Yeah, I know the fuel filters got some red on it, but it matches with the Holley blue pump, and it’s a really nice high flow aluminium filter.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FuelSystem01.jpg)

Although it was really hard to get it all to fit into the bulkhead without getting in the way of the tie rods (note the 180 degree fitting I had to use) I wanted the whole system to be hidden away in the frame head as I don’t like seeing the fuel pumps/ filter etc in the wheel well, and I want to actual run a spare wheel as it gonna be a usable street car. Note the scratch built fuel pump mount, on rubber anti-vibration mounts, which means the body can easily be taken of the chassis leaving the fuel system in place. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FuelSystem03.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FuelSystem04.jpg)

I was going to run the fuel line coming out of the pump into the original location where the stock fuel hose goes into the tunnel (top of the frame head). However, as I’m going to be running a steering damper I realised this wouldn’t work, as it would hit the fuel line.  :'(

Therefore I decided to have the fuel line entering the tunnel through the front inspection plate.  Here is the inspection plate modified to accept a bulkhead fitting.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FuelSystem08.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FuelSystem09.jpg)

And here is the braided fuel lines running to it from the pump.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FuelSystem07.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FuelSystem13.jpg)

Well that’s it! Progress at last! :)

All the front suspension is ready to be bolted up now, along with the disk brakes so hopefully more photos soon! :)

Dude  8)

Loving the Stealth Fittings, looking forward to seeing the next progress pics :D

Bit more progress!  :)

This time, I finally worked out where the fuel line is going to run through the tunnel, and where it going to exit at the back! This was actually a lot more complicated to do than I thought!  ::)

Firstly I made up the bulk head panel I was going to use. This had to be removable as there was not enough room inside to connect the fuel line fittings.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Chasis003.jpg)

However, inside the tunnel where this came out was a thick second skin. Therefore I had to make a hole for the fuel line to go through.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Chasis005.jpg)

I was a bit worried about the loss of any strength in this panel, so I decide to brace it using some thick tube cut to fit. It also allowed easy routing for the pipe with no sharp bends.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Chasis007.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Chasis008.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Chasis013.jpg)

Note: The fitting does actually run parallel to the tube. It just not secured in and looks a bit of in the above photo!

And the finished article all primed.  :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Chasis016.jpg)


Next up was mounting the line lock. I usually would put this on the opposite side of the frame head to the master cylinder. However, the fuel pump etc is already there so I had to find another place for it.

This is the location I came up with. Fits snugly to the master cylinder, but I did check, you can I actually remove it!  ;D

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/DuelCurcuitCylinderandLineLock1.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/DuelCurcuitCylinderandLineLock3.jpg)

Anyway that it for now! More soon! :)

Dude  8)

What kind of master cylinder is that? What's the spacer for??
Keep up the good work :)

Hi Zach,

It a duel circuit master clylinder from a later beetle (not sure of the precise details, was just oreded from SSP as a performance master cylinder for 4 wheel disk brakes).

The spacer is needed as the piston in the cylinder is physically a lot longer, and without it, the end that connects to the brake pedal rod would protrude to far into the car. This places it in the right location for the brake pedal rod to operate normally.  :)

Dude  8)

Top work Dude :)

How thick is the spacer?

Roughly bout 20 mm, but I can measure accuratly for you tonight if you want?  :)

It not just a spacer though, it does have a recess for the seal in it as well though! I'll put a photo up tonight as well! :)

Dude  8)

I've got something similar for mounting the master cylinder on mine, it all came part of the mounting kit CSP sells:

http://tinyurl.com/yc8ud8b (http://tinyurl.com/yc8ud8b)

Matt

To be honest i think it is a CSP kit.  :)

Dude  8)

Please do! I have mounted a MC from a 1303s onto my 1957 pan and don't want to by the mounting kit from CSP just to get the spacer....

Really long time no update, and theres plenty more to come! However, just a quick update as I really like this mod!  ;D

Yes I know this is really sad, but I wanted to have a fuel pump switch on the dash, and wanted it to look stock. Thus using the stock single speed wiper switch, I converted the ash tray knob to a fuel pump switch!

Geeky, yes I know, but kinda cool I think!  :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FuelpumpswitchMedium.jpg)

Dude  8)

Right time for a proper update!  :)

Since last time I updated (not the fuel pump switch!) I have been trying to fit a later gearbox into an early chassis! What a nightmare! Lot of people have different advice of how to do it, and not all is correct.  ::)

Because the body is not on, I needed to carefully measure everything to make sure the new gearbox was in exactly the right place, and importantly at the right angle at the bell housing. In order to check the bell housing angle I made a tool which I used to measure the angle which the bell housing was sitting at, and initially set this to vertical using axle stand and some metal shims.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall05.jpg)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall08.jpg)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall03.jpg)

I then replaced the standard cradle with a bugpack up-rated one. It was clear that the new cradle actually brought the gearbox up, as it was far from level.  :( (N.B I have checked the thickness of the urethane mounts and they are the same as stock mounts!)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall15.jpg)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall17.jpg)

It was also apparent that the bolt hole were nowhere near lining up with the urethane mounts bolt holes.  :(

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall19.jpg)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall21.jpg)

To correct the height issue, I therefore elongated the frame fork mounting holes till the gearbox sat at the correct height, and the bell housing was level. The bottom part of the elongated hole was then welded up to make the whole a circle again.  :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall26.jpg)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall28.jpg)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall29.jpg)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall30.jpg)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall31.jpg)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall32.jpg)

To get the urethane mount bolt holes to line up I additionally welded a spacer to the hanger, as well as doing some filing to the holes!  :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall36.jpg)

The cradle now sat level with the standard box in it. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/GearboxInstall42.jpg)


Next up was actually getting the nose cone mount and shift rod to fit correctly into the tunnel! This bit took ages to do, and in the process I ended up cutting off the standard chassis nosecone mount, and then having to remake it, and weld it back on in the correct place.  :(
   
Can I just say fitting a late box, by cutting off the early mount and fitting a later one DOES NOT work. Yes the box will fit, and the shift rod will line up with the tunnel hole, but the actually gearbox is angle upwards (by 3 degrees!), which will cause much problems when it comes to fitting the engine.  ???

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/LaterGearboxBracketInstall41.jpg)

Thus I had to cut the new bracket off that I had just installed, and remount it back at the standard height and location.  ::)

The CORRECT solution to fitting a later box into an early car is to swap the stock gearbox nose cone for a later splitty nose cone and hockey stick. This process is shown below.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gearbox-FittingaT2nosecone03.jpg)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gearbox-FittingaT2nosecone06.jpg)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gearbox-FittingaT2nosecone07.jpg)

This picture below shows the relative height where the shift rod are on the box, and it is this that corrects the bell housing angle problems up.  :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gearbox-FittingaT2nosecone09-Before.jpg)

However, I found that although the splitty nose cone put the bell housing at the correct angle, it actually shifted it forward 3mm (Yes I know that’s really picky!  ;D)
Therefore I machined 3mm (well actually 2mm as I didn’t want to take too much off!) Of the nose cone mounting face.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gearbox-FittingaT2nosecone19.jpg)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gearbox-FittingaT2nosecone20.jpg)

The nosecone was actually mounted to the chassis using a rhino mount, and to fit this to a type 2 nosecone this also needed modifying. Note the half moon cut out I had to grind into it.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gearbox-FittingaT2nosecone15.jpg)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Gearbox-FittingaT2nosecone18.jpg)

And thus it finally fitted. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/LaterGearboxBracketInstall45-Backto.jpg)

Although this all looks pretty straight forward it actually took me the best part of 2 months to do! Not only because I have a day job!, but also because obtaining a later nose cone mount (which had to come from the States!) and then welding it on, and then put it back to standard height just took ages! ::)

I hope the pictures and info I have put up here stop somebody making the same mistakes I have, and is also faintly interesting! ;D

Dude  8)

Hi Dude,

Very nice work, follow this thread like a hawk ;)

The holes do not line up. I had the same problem, this is because that EMPI mount needs to be mounted strait to the gearbox (without urethane bushes)

Keep up the good work.
Paul.

Hi Paul,

Cheers mate, it nice to hear other people like what I'm doing.  :) 

It is actually a bugpack mount which is meant to take urethane/ rubber mounts, not like the solid mount EMPI one (I know the one you’re thinking of).

 I just think the hole didn’t line up very well as the cradle aren’t that well made.  ::) I used it though, cause it was a lot thicker, and less likely to flex than a stock mount, but I sort of always knew I’d have to adjust it to get it to fit perfectly.

Dude  8)

Time for a quick thread update! Bit of a random thing to choose to do considering I’m getting married tomorrow, but here goes anyway!  ;D

I'm actually getting near to the point where I'm ready to think about having the shell painted, but before I do that, I wanted to trail fit all the dash components.

I have always really liked of the look of the dash in Bill Schwimmer's 1959 coral red ragtop, and wanted to do something similar. Where possible I have tried to use period-ish parts, such as the VDO tach, the motometer oil and pressure gauges, and the genuine speedwell steering wheel.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Dashlayout10.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Dashlayout15.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Dashlayout16.jpg)

However, in the end I did decide on an electronic Dehne fuel gauge (cheers Rob at Prowagen for the great deal) as the original one I had just needed to much repair. I also really liked the look of the retrosounds radio that fits in the stock radio location (cheers Ben for sorting me a great deal), as it still had that period look, although I have painted the inserts on the bezel black as there was too much chrome!.

Also note the rebuilt and recalibrated original 58 speedo, which has had KM speedo number ring put on it, so it now read up to 120mph (with zero miles!)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Dashlayout17.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Dashlayout18.jpg)

Well that it for now, hope you like it! I think it looks ace! :)

Dude 8)

Dig the dash! Is the speedo calibrated for 120mph as well??

That dash looks awsome dude, mounting that gearbox looked a right arse.
I love your attention to detail will be a cool ride once it's finished, cant wait.

Sorry Zach,

Should have resonded ages ago!  ::)

Yes it is calibrated for 120mph. It was completly rebuilt with new gears fitted taking into account the tyre size i'd be running.  :)

Dude  8)

At last something worth updating! Chassis all done!  :)

The first thing I did was to scrape all the tar of the tunnel and clean off the surface rust.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs01.jpg)

Luckily the pan was in really good shape for a 52 year old floorpan! There were a few small dents that got straightened out, as well as a few small repairs that needed doing, but nothing to serious.  :)

The first repair was to weld up some small holes in the battery tray and the carpet button thing.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs04.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs05.jpg)


The floor by the pedal area need a bit more repair, but nothing too bad.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs08.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs09.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs11.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs13.jpg)


There was also a small rust hole on the rear lip of the pan, but this also got replaced with fresh steel.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs14.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs17.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs20.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs22.jpg)


Before it was all painted my good mate Phil welded in the brackets for a BERG mid mount. :)

Here’s the bar mounted on the gearbox.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/MidMount1.jpg)

And the brackets welded on the pan.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/MidMount3.jpg)

I know it geeky, but I just had to show you how good Phil’s welding is! ;D

Whilst I’m usually more than happy with my welding I wanted this to be super strong and super neat! Phil didn’t let me down! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/MidMount4.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/MidMount5.jpg)


Finally the pan was ready for a coat of paint! Well after I’d removed all the surface rust!

Yes I know there still rust on it! This is only a temporary coat of paint, as it’s eventually gonna be shot blasted and powder coated! I just clean the most off the rust off for now, and give it a coat of red lead primer so I can build it all up and make sure everything fits together!

So here’s the panel after roughly 6 hours of sanding and cup brushing! ::)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs24.jpg)

And finally painted in read lead primer! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs25.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorpanRepairs28.jpg)


Well that where I’m at now. Hopefully I’ll get it out the rafters in the next few days, and start bolting all the bits up!

Finally something that feels like progress! :)

Dude 8)

Nice progress on a awesome project. It looks like you are really good at the metal work.

im really enjoying this thread ,keep up the good work

Nice metalwork!

Thanks all, kind words really appreciated.  :)

Cant wait to start building it back up now. :)

Na, I'm alright at metal work, but theres some people on here with proper skills. If you wanna see good metalwork check out Danny Gabbards 62 resto! His work is awsome!  8) I especially love how he removed the heater vents on the front window. :)

Dude  8)

looking good fella

Cheers mate.  :)

Fitted a lot of the running gear up on it since, but gonna get it rolling before any more updates! :)

You bug jamming dude?

dude  8)

Right, at last it's time for a proper update!  :)

Last time I put any photos up the floor pan was just painted. However, over the last few month I been working on it really hard, and at last it's finally rolling! :)

Please note, this is not final finish, it is simply a trial fit to make sure everything fits/ works. I’m really glad I did this, as I’ve had to modify a number of parts!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis02.jpg)


At the front I fitted later disk brakes drilled to Porsche pattern, and have up rated the callipers to Talbot horizon units. Shock are KYB Gas adjust standard length, as drop spindles have been fitted to get the 4" narrowed beam into the weeds. Also note the welded on nut on the tie rod, to make tracking adjustment easier.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis03.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis04.jpg)


The fuel line has been run through the middle of the chassis, and here you can see it going into the specially modified cover plate. -6AN fittings, and braided hose have been used throughout. All fitting are either stealth black or blue to match with the colour scheme of the car.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis05.jpg)


Here you can see the fuel system and brake system hidden away in front of the bulkhead under the inner arches.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis06.jpg)


A duel circuit master cylinder is fitted as well as a Hurst line lock. Yes, I have polished all the brake lines!!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis07.jpg)


And here’s the fuel system fitted which I’ve talked about before.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis08.jpg)


Here’s the pedal assembly all detailed and fitted up. The assembly has been modified to accept a later style spring. Also the weak S bracket connecting the pedal to the accelerator rod has been replaced by rose joints for a much more precise action.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis09.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis10.jpg)


Another shot of the polished brake lines!  I know they’ll never be seen, but I used anodised clips where the brake line runs along the tunnel anyway!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis11.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis12.jpg)


Here’s the tunnel inspection plate. This has been modified to take 3 stainless button screw, just cause I like how it looked!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis13.jpg)


And here’s the back end!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis14.jpg)


As pictured previously a BERG mid mount has been fitted.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis15.jpg)


Here you can see where the fuel line exits the tunnel. This was a proper pain as I had to remove the beam and gearbox again to get it in! Cheers for the help with this Stretch! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis16.jpg)


One thing I never liked on early cars was the bracket which was bent around the axle tube to secure the brake pipe. It just meant that any paint you put on it would crack and peel on install. Therefore I adapted the original to mount in two halves, as well as secure both the brake line, and handbrake cable out the way of the rear shocks.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis17.jpg)


Here is the rear brakes. CB disks have been fitted. These were originally blank but have again been drilled to Porsche pattern. Oh, and more polished brake lines!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis18.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis19.jpg)


And finally a shot of a happy me! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RollingChassis01.jpg)


Anyway that where I’m up to now! Hope you like it! :)

Dude  8)

very nice work!

Looking ace fella ;D

keep up the good work dude. 8)

hi dude looking good ive sent you a pm cheers ben

Hi Ben,

PM read and replies to!

Thank you very much for the info, i genuinelly hadnt noticed, but I'm very glad you pointed it out.  :)

Cheer,

Dude  8)

Nice work dude  ;D

What cool thread and a cool Bug too

At last a real landmark moment, and what feels like a real turning point for the car! I’ve finally got the ragtop in! :)

As usually it was not straight forward, and although only a partial picture, you can see how bad the ragtop fabric and the mechanism was to begin with. ::)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto01.jpg)


Here’s the rear bow section which only had two mounted studs left on it, as well as the end being partially rotted away. :(

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto02.jpg)


However this was soon repaired! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto03.jpg)


A few other bits of brackets broken and fixed.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto04.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto05.jpg)


All mechanical parts got a repaint. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto06.jpg)


And the guide rails got a polish! Yes I know not 100% perfect, but this is only a trial build, and my arms nearly fell off getting them to this point!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto07.jpg)


Rails installed in the car.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto08.jpg)


And the ragtop section built back up. At this point I got to say a massive thank you to Dayne at Touch of Class who made me up a ‘temporary’ top. He did an amazing job! :)

The actual ragtop will be done in mohair, but this temporary cover is just to make sure all the mechanisms work, and keep the water out the pan where my garage roof leak thanks to the shit*y wet weather in the UK!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto09.jpg)


And the ragtop installed! :) Please note, yes I know the edges are lipped up. I haven’t put the side tension straps in, as I couldn’t get the special rivets I needed to do so. This will be sorted out soon!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto10.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto11.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto12.jpg)


And the inside, showing the rebuilt mechanism.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto13.jpg)


And here’s the ragtop open, the most important bit of having a ragtop! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto14.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopResto15.jpg)


Anyway finally some progress worth showing! I’m so happy to have got this in! It’s finally a proper ragtop! :)

Dude 8)

looking really good love the little details on this car. Awesome work

Cheers Smurf67,

Really appreciated! :) Especially as I am loosing a bit of motivation on it at the moment.  :(

I just never seem to get much time to actaully work on it, nothing ever just fits up, and added to that the arctic like weather, it hard to keep motivated.

Hopefully get something more done this weekenend. :)

Dude  8)

keep the faith will be a top car when its finished. I know what you mean though my car is in a state of disrepair and getting worse the more we look into it  ::) more than a little disheartening but you have done a top job and needs to be seen to the finish, and I look forward to some updates soon Alex

AWESOME dude!

keep up the good work dude, i have a electric heater in the attic, if you want it for your garage mate.

Thanks all for the word of encouragment.  :)

Went to see my mate Stretch last night, and after numerous cups of tea and chatting about vw I was actually feeling quite motivated!

However, got home and thought i would try and fit a few things up. Found out that the steering column rubber donut does not work with the neimann acceesory steering lock, and then I could not find any rubber the right thickness to make one, and yet again enthusiam disappeared! Isnt anything just going to bolt up?!  ::)

I only wanted to trail fit it to see if i actually wanted to use it!  ::)

Hi Graham! Cheers for the offer of the heater dude, but me garage has a tin roof. Any heat in there, even body heat, end up in me being rained on with condensation!  >:(

Hows your motor coming on?

Dude  8)

Keep at it Fella, Looking Great :D

Perseverance is the key! ;D

Cheers mate, hope alls good. :)

'Key' is the 'key' word at the moment! Trying to work out wether i wanna put the ignition key at the stock location in the dash, or on on a period accessory neihmann steering lock!  ;D

Opinion much appreciated, but remember trying to keep it cal look, not limp resto call!  ;D

Dude  8)

If you're adding something unnecessary to the cars performance AND its hindering the build I would bin it! Well... maybe Ebay it  :D

Sadly I've oversived drilled the standard ignition barrel hole on the dash to acept a cigar lighter socket (not as bad looking as it sounds!).  ::)
I i handt i would go back to stock due to the hassle i had with this!  ::)

Dude  8)

easily solved by having a push start button tucked up under the dash and a battery cut off switch key you take with you to imobilise it  ;)

Cal Look to me is about clean lines and less fuss ;D

Right decision made. Fitted the steering lock up tonight, and sadly although its close, it don't fit.  :(

Thus looks like i'm going back to stock. Cool as it a cleaner look, but a shit as i'd oversived drilled the ignition barrel hole. Time to get the welder out again!  ::)

Gonna loose a few other bits on the dash in the cause of a cleaner cal look as well, such as the genuine empi glove box pull, and the radio!  :)

Dude  8)

What Dose not Fit??? here is the Rubber piece you need??  http://www.thesamba.com/vw/classifieds/detail.php?id=1062933

Cheers Shubee2,

That columns actually a later column though. Wouldnt work with my 58. Piece of rubber would probably be ok.= though.

Lock dont fit as when you bolt the housing up under the dash, one side goes flush to the steel, whereas on ther other side theres a 2-3mm gap.
I dont think you'd have this problem with a LHD car.

Dude  8)

Right, a good friend of mine has been reminding me I should really update this thread so here goes. :)

Well it’s clear the body’s back on from the ragtop photos, but here are some better shots of it on.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/BodyBackOn01.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/BodyBackOn02.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/BodyBackOn08.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/BodyBackOn14.jpg)

I thought I’d try and make it a look a bit nicer, as well as try and stop the dreaded rust, so I replaced the body mounts and bolts with stainless steel items.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorPanBolts7.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorPanBolts3.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FloorPanBolts5.jpg)

The interior has also started to go back in. Check out the MSD system hid under the rear seat.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Interior02-Seat.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/MSDStuffInstalled2.jpg)
 
Although I’m still having some issues with, the brake fluid master cylinder and all connections are installed. Also note the polished ID tag and ‘Made in German’ badge!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakeresevoir1.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakeresevoir3.jpg)

I have also started to fit the electrics back in. The dash is starting to go back together. Note the mini shift light fitted on the column! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Dash-Front.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Dash-Rear2.jpg)

Here is the fuel pump power switch hidden as an ash tray knob.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Fuelpumpswitchinastray.jpg)

And finally here is the control box I am currently in the middle of building which will give me flashing rear snowflake lights, used as indicators, as well as flashing semaphores. All will be hidden away in the box under the dash. A big thank you to Larry for Retro Custom, who was a genius when it came to the wiring for this. I know it’s been a while since you sent it, but I haven’t forgot you buddy! ;)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Flashers.jpg)

So that where up to at the moment. Hopefully once I get my garage back, as were having a conservatory fitted, I can crack on with it!!

Dude 8)

looking good, like the rose joint mod on the throttle pedal, may well do something similar to mine at some stage ;)

Looking good fella!

Top end trial fitting of tinwear, and ancillaries coming along nicely.  :) Big thanks to Stretch for his help! :)

DDS and Race Trim parts are on too!!  8)
I like purple!!  8)

Just got to decide now, DDS twist linkage, or BERG linkage with the 48IDA's?!?!  :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Camera013.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Camera015.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Camera016.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Camera018.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Camera019.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Camera022.jpg)

Dude  8)

I've actually made quite a bit of progress on the car recently, but I thought I’d just chuck up a quick update on a important bit of it, the motor!  :)

Ancillaries build up is finally all finished. Took a long while as a lot of parts had to be adjusted, or modified. For example, due to the DDS manifolds turning the carbs around 180 degrees and the arms open outwards, I ended up having to make linkage arms to make it all work. I'm pleased with it though as it looks very similar to the linkage set up’s used of early DKP cars.

I did also have a DDS linkage, but I just couldn’t get it to work with the MSD dizzy as it caught on this.  >:(

Anyway I’m really pleased with it, as although it not a fully correct cal look vintage performance motor, I do think it has a reasonable look of one. :)

Hopes you all approve. :)

Dude  8)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FinishedEngine02.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FinishedEngine03.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FinishedEngine04.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FinishedEngine05.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FinishedEngine06.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FinishedEngine08.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FinishedEngine09.jpg)

Vert Nice work dude !!!

Nice work dude now lets see the pics of the engine in the car ;)

I'll put some up soon dude. :)

I hear your motor came out easy as well, any idea what the problem with the box/clutch plate is?

Where your build/ transformation thread?!  ;)

Dude  8)

engine out clutch was all good mate but rotating the wheels some times it moved the input shaft sometimes not, i reckon its fooked

Ah, sucks dude!  :(

Looks like it time for a new superman box, especially as it big motor time! :-)
I'd say you need to have more mechanical sympathy but that aint gonna happen mr 1 ton right foot!  ;D

Dude  8)

just spoke to Paul at bears, will get the box out sunday and drop it up to him next week ;D

Cool, Paul a top bloke and make a great cup of tea. If you fancy a wingman for the trip let me know. :)

Dude  8)

 8) Now where's those pics

LOL!  ;D Believe it or not, i've actually for once in my life, been to busy to put them up!!  ;D

Dude  8)

Right, finally time for a thread update! :)

Been cracking on with wiring, and all the wiring is now in that is needed for when I’m ready to fire the motor up.

Battery is a deep cycle yellow top hidden away under the rear, seat as is the MSD system.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Electrics1.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Electrics2.jpg)

Also done a fair bit of wiring under the dash. Please note all wiring will be ran through heat shink, and tidied up when the loom is finished.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Electrics3.jpg)

Here you can see the lights control box, and an example of how neat I’m trying to keep it all. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Electrics4.jpg)

And here’s the horn! It an aftermarket retro style chrome one, but with a genuine vintage BOSCH badge on it. I think it looks pretty cool! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Electrics5.jpg)

Oh and I also fitted the high torque starter motor, after a good clean up, that I brought second hand.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Starter1.jpg)

I’ve also been busy on the fuel system, and all the lines are now fitted in the engine bay (as well as the MSD coil on the firewall). Not the use of ali P clips to keep it all tidy!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FuelSystem1.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FuelSystem2.jpg)

Even under the car!  ;D

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/FuelSystem3.jpg)

And finally the most exciting bit! The engine has been slotted in! :)

Thanks so much to Stretch for helping me get it in, and for all those who say it can’t be done, it did go in with the fanhousing on!!   ;) Thanks to the short DDS manifolds the engine lid also shuts without standoffs. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/EngineInstalled01.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/EngineInstalled02.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/EngineInstalled05.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/EngineInstalled07.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/EngineInstalled09.jpg)

So finally something worth updating! :)

Dude  8)

Looks great in there!  ;D Good Work Dude!

hey Dude,

very nice work, love all the details.
Maybe I missed it, but are you running the car without paint or do you take it apart again?

Paul.

Cheers Alex.  :)

Fahrvergnugen, na, the car will be fully stripped down once built and be properly painted. Just wanted to make sure all the holes are there I need, everything fits, and that I dont need to weld on any other bits. I'm glad I have done it this way, as I've had to do loads of little body mods during the trial build.   :)

Dont like 'rat' look, its for people who are to lazy to paint there car!  ;D

Dude  8)

That engine bay looks awesome mate, really really neat.

Top work dude 8)

Cheers mate. :-)

Only updated the thread cause of you nagging at me!  ;D

Wheres yours  ???

Dude  8)

OK, Cool.

I think that's the safest way to do it. I think I will even drive mine before painting it.

Paul.

Right finally thought it’s time for a bit of an update.  :)

Although physically it doesn’t look like I’ve done that much, I have been putting the hours in! The car has had a complete new wiring loom from scratch all done all in black! (I think I might regret this in the future!!  ;D)

Anyway here’s the car as she currently is! :)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic01.jpg)

I’ve also done a lot on the brake system. I couldn’t get the nylon braided brake pipes to seal on the standard reservoir push on end, so Bob at Concept racing welded some AN fittings on for me! The guy is a welding genius!
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic02.jpg)

Here are the reservoirs in place.
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic03.jpg)

And the stainless brake lines fitted between the reservoir and master cylinder.
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic04.jpg)

Had some stainless brake hose flexi's made up at speedflow. Although they were expensive, I’m very pleased with them. :)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic05.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic06.jpg)

I also got round to fitting the SWF washer system. This was hard work as it took some head scratching, and about 5 different non return valves to get it all to work. But it did in the end. :)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic07.jpg)

Here you can see the pump for the washer system as well as the wiring loom. I know at the moment it’s a bit messy, but this will eventually all be wrapped with cloth loom tape.
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic08.jpg)

Whilst were talking about wiring, here’s the obligatory Lucas indicators! Not this isn’t final fit! Just wanted to test everything works, but putting the wings on would have got in the way!
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic11.jpg)

A few interior bits fitted.
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic09.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic10.jpg)

I’ve also finalised the dash! :)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic12.jpg)

I decided not to run a radio, as I couldn’t find anywhere to hide speakers, and I’m not gonna hear it with the motor at 6,00rpm anyway!! :)

To finish the radio plate off nice, I adapted a glove box trim piece. I really like how it turned out. :)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic13.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic14.jpg)

Also got most of my gauges sorted! :)

120mph speedo fitted, as well as the mechanical Motometer pressure gauge.  The Motometer temperature gauge is only trial fitted at present, as its been sent away to have the sender cable extended. Also trial fitted is my ‘rare as’ Motometer tacho! Still trying to work out how to wire this in, and how to get it to work with a modern MSD system! Shift light is attached to the column.
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic15.jpg)

And finally here’s a shot of my OG dehne fuel gauge fitted. At the moment this works, but it’s a bit ratty, so hoping to have a new face put on it. Some of the photos show an electronic dehne fitted, but I decided in the end OG was best! :)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Pic16.jpg)

Anyway, I hope some of you are still awake after reading this!!  ;D

Dude  8)

Nice work with that trim!

This is looking awesome Dude! :)

Fantastic build buddy, keep it going, looking forward to seeing it running..

Cheers both. :)

Really need to up-date this build thread!

Cars been running for about 2 months, and a I've done a lot has since I last posted!! I'll try and chuck some more photos up tonight. :)

Dude   8)

I've done the same with the trim on the radio delete plate. It's the nicest way to finish the dash when you have gauges around the steering wheel.

:)

Interested in how you shortened yours Guillaume?.

Mine is a repro aluminium trim which I have cut and then glued the end piece back on to close the end off. I then polised this so you can hardly see the join.

Did think about cutting the original aluminum trim, and having the end ali welded up, but i went for the above option in the end because i could do it all, without having to get someone to TIG it.

Dude  8)

Right, bit of a sort of intermediate update, but a cool one never the less!

I have always wanted to put a vert decklid on the 58, because I wanted it to get extra cooling, abut also just because I think the look way cool, especially the 58-63 with the horizontal vents and t handles. :)

Anyway years ago, I managed to find a genuine vert decklid on a trip to the States. However, it was very sun bleached, an at some point it must have been in a accident, as the bottom was way out of shape, and the whole decklid curved like a banana!!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid01.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid02.jpg)

Anyway, enthusiasm took over from common sense, and I brought it and shipped it back to the UK. However, it soon became apparent though that I didn’t have the skills to get it straight enough, as it was gonna be a difficult job, and thus it was sent to Wayne at the Intergalactic Customs Shop, who did a amazing job of beating the thing back into shape. This picture really doesn’t do his work justice. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid04.jpg)

Here’s a pic of it on the car. It really fits nice. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid06.jpg)

Next it was off to my mate good mate Andy at Custom and Classics Paint Shop, who helped me get all the last little wrinkles out. He also did all the paint, which I am well chuffed with.

First of it got a coat of etch primer. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid07.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid09.jpg)

Here are the popes noses I had already got prepped for it. :) (Yes there are two! I’m a flash git and as you’ll see later, it on quick release pins, so that I can swap between the vert and standard deck lid I have!)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid12.jpg)

And a quick shot of it on the decklid.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid13.jpg)

Next up it was time to put a bit a bit of filler in to take out any last little wrinkles. Please note, the photo makes it look like there is a lot more filler in it than there actually is! There is only a thin skim, which is amazing as it looked like it had been steam rollered when I brought it!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid14.jpg)

And finally it was time to get it into paint! :)  Here’s it in primer.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid16.jpg)

And here is it finally painted in Fjord Blue. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid18.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid20.jpg)
(Yes I know this photo is upside down! I thought it looked weird the other way up!! :D)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid21.jpg)

And finally a shot of the titanium quick release pins fitted. I got these from Joe Bence, and they are stunningly well made. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/VertEngineLid22.jpg)

So that’s it for my quick intermediate update! I hope you like it. :)

I am very pleased with the final outcome with the decklid. Only took me 4 years to get it to this stage!! :D :D

Dude  8)

Looking Good Dude, Loving the coulor choice!

Cheers bro. :)

Blues the new red or summut like that!!  ;D

Dude  8)

Thanks for the update, will be great to see her in one colour, thats when she will come together. I feel like its coming to the last page in the book, Been a great read so far Dude, and the next instalment ( On The Street ) Should be Fantastic.....

Cheers Richyrich. :)

Yeah it does feel like it s actually coming together, although still a number of teething problems to work through. Really looking forward to getting it all in paint. :)


I think you mean on the street/strip!!  ;D ;D

Dude  8)

Love the colour and the standard of the build  8)

Yes . Strip AND Street,. sounds like a porno ::).. love it..

Teething is just tuneing. as somone said, When Its Finished We Sell It....... ???

Nice  :)

Thanks all. :)

No way i'm selling this one! I have put so much blood sweet and tears into her! Shes a keeper! :)

She might get faster though!  ;D

Dude  8)

Right there’s nothing on telly, so as good as any time to update my build thread. :)

Although it feels like I hadn’t done much recently, when I looked at the last pictures I posted I realised I have done a fair bit, and quite visual stuff.

Firstly I’ve fitted a BERG engine brace. Now although this is actually pretty much a bolt on affair, me being me I decided to do it a bit differently. I didn’t like the way the bracket bolted through the inner wheel arch so I welded the bracket on instead.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update01.jpg)

As usually nothing just fits, and the rod that drop down to the bar fouled the oil filter bracket and hoses. I got round this by fitting some extension pieces in between the hose fittings and hose ends, which can be seen below.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update02.jpg)

Another thing that I didn’t like about the original BERG setup I was the way that the bar that dropped from the bracket rubbed against the bumper mount. Thus just attracts rust. Thus I made my own brackets which mounted the bar slightly further away from the body.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update03.jpg)

I also did not like the way in which the bar just sat under the engine, as I was concerned it might slip off, for example under a heavy launch. Thus I welded a locating tab (ok it’s a bolt!) onto the metal seat of the rubber stop, which located into the front engine hole, which was ground into a half moon shape for some reason.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update04.jpg)

These pictures shows more clearly how it fits onto the engine.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update05.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update06.jpg)

And the engine support bracket all fitted up. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update07.jpg)


And now for something a bit more visual. The car with the bonnet wings, and running boards all fitted up! :)
Wings are fibreglass daymoulding wings which are an excellent fit, but the bonnet is a OG four tab. Headlights are also fitted and fully workings, and the regulation cal look t bars are there too. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update08.jpg)

OG handle and badge fitted.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update09.jpg)

Posh ali fittings and stainless bolts used throughout.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update10.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update11.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update12.jpg)

Looking at the interior, a few more bits added as well. There’s a genuine 58-59 only plastic sun visor. These are different from the oval ones as they are curved, rather than square, and being two years only are very hard to find. Cheers to Delly and Steve for this, it’s your old one! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update13.jpg)

And here the glovebox with a genuine EMPI glove box pull. I know it might be a little resto cal, but I love it and I can actually open the glovebox with it as well!! :D

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update14.jpg)

And finally the rear tail lights fitted! These have been wired so that as well as being tail lights and brake lights they also flash. The semaphores also still work, but they flash now too! Thanks again to Larry from Resto Custom for the wiring diagram.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update16.jpg)

Anyway that me up-to-date. Hope some of you are still awake after my geeky ramblings! :D

Dude 8)

Love the work dude..dude

A lick of paint and some threads and you'll be done! Nice work.

looking good, I love all the little bits you've done, really well thought out  8)

Looking good dude 8)

Although I have been doing a fair bit on the car, I’ve not done a lot of ‘visual’ stuff recently.  I’ve been doing bits like chasing down wiring faults, bleeding brakes, and lots of little odds and end jobs. However, here are a few of the more interesting things I’ve done.

Firstly I hadn’t realised that on the front disk, the wheels was sitting on the centre bit where the bearing goes, and not actual sitting fully home on the face of the disc. A trip to Bears Motorsport followed and the inner parts of the disk was turned down so that the wheels now sit all the way home. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto01.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto02.jpg)


I also finally got the pop out windows fitted that have been sitting on the top of my cupboard for years. Not without drama though, as I managed to drop the whole assembly whilst fitting it and break the catch, breaking the only bit that know body reproduces. :(  

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto03.jpg)


However, Jonny from Java VW came to the rescue sorting me out with a pair of OG latches, and in the ivory colour I was eventually going to change the knobs to anyway. :)

Here’s the pop outs all fitted up.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto04.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto05.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto06.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto07.jpg)


I’ve also been doing a few more small bits. For example I have fitted carb return springs, using machined down hex bar linkage mounts.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto08.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto09.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto10.jpg)


I also fitted a quick connect/ disconnect wiring terminal to the decklid so it can quickly and easily be removed.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto11.jpg)


Oh, and whilst were at the decklid are, I trial fitted the number plates. Took me ages to work out the best way to do this, and the position, and in the end I just used bolts with some spacers to keep the plate flat, but it looks ok.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto12.jpg)


 I also noticed when I fitted the T bars that they didn’t line up right, so I started making some shims to correct this. These were done in a single piece of aluminium in the end, once I’d got the spacing right.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto13.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto27.jpg)


I have the same problem on the fronts, but these actually needed cutting and re-welding as the need to be spaced the other way. Oh well nothings easy!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto14.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto17.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto18.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto19.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto20.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto21.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto22.jpg)

If I’m gonna race the bug at any point I’ll also need a tank breather with a rollover valve, as this is a MSA requirement. Most of the breathers I found were massive, and way over sized, but I did manage to find a small one in the end which looked OK. I think it looks pretty cool with the copper lines as breather.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto23.jpg)

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto24.jpg)


The line exits the boot space through a factory hole, and goes to a breather under the tank, attached to the bulk head. Most of this was made from standard brake line fittings.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto25.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Resto26.jpg)

So that’s it really, not a load of progress, but some progress all the same. :)

Dude  8)

Progress is progress dude,

Lovely to see you all be it brief at dubfreeze.

Interesting idea on the fuel tank breather, might have to borrow that!!

Where is the roll over valve positioned?
What fuel cap is that? Msa hate mine as they say it will leak if the car rolls!

Lee

Hi Alex, Was great to see you too mate. We should actually jusy sit down n have a beer and catch up one time. :)

Lee, the valve is actually in the little ali piece on the top of the tank, and it works well as i tried blowing through it right way up, and upside down, and it does as it should, and well!!
I got it from speedflow and its a Mocal one i think. A bugger to fit at it uses a ali sealing nut, ad you cant weld a nut in, as its a special breathed one (is that a word?!).

No idea on the fuel cap, i had it off a mate, who had it on a tank he had. I am gonna replace it for the standard VE logo'd one which should be fine with a good seal. :)

Bit of an update.

I’ve actually decided that, despite not being able to race in MSA classes (i.e. VWDRC, OLFF etc), I’m not going to fit a roll cage. I know some people think I’m mental, but I built this car to use and enjoy, and having a full cage does get in the way (I know from the race car). I could actually live with a 4 point cage, but MSA rules say I got to have a 6 point due to the ragtop, and I’m just not willing to have all the scaffolding down the A pillar.

However, and bear with me cause I’m getting there, but I’m not happy to run without decent seatbelt/ restraint either. At the moment there’s nothing, as 59 didn’t come with belts.  I don’t like the look of standard later 3 point belt, and I’m not willing to fit the harness using the ‘easy break your spine route’ of fixing them to the centre of the rear seats.

Thus I’ve come up with the following design, which allows 4 point harnesses to be fitted, the ragtop to be easily opened, and for passengers in the back (with a bit of climbing under tubes!)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBarDiagram-Bolts.png)

I’ve actually made a prototype version of this with thinner tube (gonna use CDS tube for real thing), and here’s how it fits. Thank you to the wife for being my glamorous assistant!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar01.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar02.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar03.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar04.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar05.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar06.jpg)


It will attach to the B pillars using welded on plates with welded in nuts, and another plate welded to the bar will bolt to this. A bar (not shown) will also drop down to the tunnel. This will stop it pulling down when people grab hold of it getting in the back!. Here’s the plates I made.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar07.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar08.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar09.jpg)


And here’s a mock up of how the plates will fit on the bar (excuse the terrible bend, pipes to thin, and the pipe bender just kinked it!).  Good enough for a template though.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar10.jpg)


Well that the mock up, but I’ve ordered some CDS tube to make the real thing. Update soon. :)

Dude  8)

Well it’s been a while since I last posted any updates, but I can finally report the trial build is finished. :)

I’ve actually been quite busy, so where to start. Well I decide that I wasn’t up to the job of fabricating the harness bar myself thus I went to see Bob at Concept Racing (http://www.conceptracing.co.uk).  I cannot recommend  Bob’s work highly enough, but I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar04-1.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar05-1.jpg)

Stunning TIG welding. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar10-1.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar12-1.jpg)

Harness loops to keep the belt in place.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar14.jpg)

And with the seats and harnesses fitted. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar15.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar43.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar44.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar45.jpg)


Welded in inserts to attach the harnesses.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar19.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessBar27.jpg)


Next up I fitted an external oil cooler. I decided I wanted a external cooler as well as the standard cooler, as I’d heard stories of big engine car over heating in traffic que’s, a fact of life in the UK.......

Now originally I had got a complete fan and cooler set up. However, I planned to fit it under the rear parcel shelf, and as usual it didn’t fit!! ::) Thus I had to do some modifications.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/OilCooler01.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/OilCooler02.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/OilCooler03.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/OilCooler04.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/OilCooler08.jpg)

And heres it hidden away underneath the car.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/OilCooler15.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/OilCooler14.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/OilCooler18.jpg)

The oil line connections to the oil filter and motor.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/OilCooler13.jpg)


Next up was a front number plate mount. Now we all know most cal look owners use the, ‘It must have fell off officer....’ excuse for not running one, but I didn’t want to be stopped all the time. Thus I came up with this quickly removable bracket.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PlateBracket02.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/PlateBracket06.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/plate.jpg)


I positioned it slightly back from the t bars so it’s not used as a bumper!!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/plate2.jpg)



Next up it was time to sort one of those annoying niggles, the front tyres rubbing on the inner arch. Now I don’t like tyres rubbing partly because it remove the paint, but mainly cause it causes damage to  the tyres which could be dangerous.

Now I already had an early steering box fitted and racked my brains for ways to limit the travel on the pitman arm of this. However in the end I decided it was easier just to fit a later box, pitman arm, and weld on a stop to the beam.

Here’s the later box I found in my lock up.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/SteeringBox01.jpg)

And here’s it after a bit of a clean up and paint.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/SteeringBox11.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/SteeringBox13.jpg)

And here’s the stop welded in (excuse the welding, this will be tidied up when the beam is off!)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/SteeringBox16.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/SteeringBox17.jpg)


Another annoying niggle I had was brakes related. Although I’d fitted a ‘performance’ master cylinder, the pedal still had a soft feel to it, which I attributed to the larger brake callipers both front and back. Sadly I also had some problems sealing the pipes from the duel reservoirs I had made

Thus I decided to change the master cylinder to a Porsche 944 item, due to its bigger piston, and the integral reservoir. It worked well, and the pressure was increased as well, as stopping the leak. It also had an added bonus of a low brake fluid sender, which I wired to a dash light. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakes3.jpg)

Master cylinder fitted.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakes8.jpg)


Next up it was time to change the car from a shell to a car by fitting the doors. :)

I was lucky enough to have found some NOS door that had been sitting at the back of a workshop for years. Sounds good but they were only painted in factory primer, and thus there was a fair bit of surface rust.

Anyway first job was to fit mirror hinge pins, as i wanted to run mirrors both sides. Now I gotta say the door hinge pin tool that Joey Coghill produces is worth its weight in gold when it comes to removing door hinge pins. Both were done in 20 mins. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door02.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door04.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door05.jpg)
I made this tool for installing the hinge pins.
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door06.jpg)

Hinge pins installed

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door07.jpg)

Next up was removing that surface rust.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door03.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door23.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door24.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door25.jpg)

And some protective paint

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door27.jpg)

And the passenger side door fitted. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door14.jpg)

And heres all the internals,

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door16.jpg)

Now it turns out the doors I have are actually 61 doors. There are a few slight differences, such as the door lock bar flex support thingie. Thus I made one to stop the bar flexing. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door17.jpg)

And a few more details

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door22.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door35.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Door41.jpg)


So here it is. The finished car. :) (well in terms of trial build).

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Final01.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Final05.jpg)

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Final08.jpg)

And here’s the motor.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Final12b.jpg)

And a shots of the interior.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Final14.jpg)

And here’s the dash layout (n.b. This is a temporary tacho, I have a matching motometer one to go in)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Final17.jpg)

Well that’s it! :)

Time to start stripping it all down again for paint. ::)

Dude 8)

Great work on the car! Really like your harness mounts.

belt bar is good, also acts as a handlebar for the rear passengers!

Put glass in it and take it for a spin :)

Wow cool dude!! Nice subtle mods you made.
Wanna see it with some shinny paint.

Michael

Thanks all. :)

Lids, i did take it for a spin, well sort of. Was going to take it round the block, but only got to the end of the lane before i ran out of fuel!!  ;D

tikimadness, me too. :)

Dude  8)

I know how much work has gone into this car, well done Dude, looks great.

Now get it booked in for paint !!!   ;D

Looks Great Dude, sorry again for being miles away when you called the other day.

Looking forward to seeing the car all shiny!

dude looking good  ;D

cheers for the tank by the way
(well stretch cheers for the tank )

hopefully see it in the flesh at shacky dragday ?

rich

Looks ace Dude, and seconded, we'd love to see this along at Drag Day next year. Glad to see all your hard work paying off :)

Great work and cool car!

Thanks all for the kind words. :)

Yes i will hopefully start to sort getting it painted soon! Keep bugging me Stretch!!  ;D

Jesus, No worries mate. I'm not always with it!! Anyway your not used to seeing me (well speaking! to me) anywhere not at a race track!!  ;D

As for the Drag Day, i really hope i can get it done for then. Drag Days are the sort of events i built the car for. :)

Dude  8)

That's a lot of hard work. It's coming out nicely.

I'd like to point out one thing with your master-cylinder observation. Increasing the master-cylinder bore diameter reduces hydraulic pressure for a given amount of input force. So effectively you reduced the amount of pressure that your system generates.

But that's not necessarily a bad thing. The larger caliper bores will generate more mechanical force for a given amount of hydraulic pressure (as you stated the larger bores also make a pedal spongy). So in your case you upset the system balance by installing the larger calipers (which generate more mechanical force at the expense of a softer pedal) but restored it by fitting a larger master-cylinder bore (which generates less hydraulic force at the expense of a harder pedal).

Bear in mind that I'm talking balance and not bias. Bias usually describes the braking-force ratio between the front and rear axles. You can have acceptable overall balance and still have improper bias.

Hope this helps.

Ah thank you, that does make perfect sense, and actually seems to work in practice as well. :)

Since changing the brake pedal is restored back to how it should feel, i.e. much more positive. :)

As for the bias , without getting it checked on the rollers i wont really know. But i'm hoping it should be about right, i.e. 60/40 to the front as the Horizon calipers are larger.

Dude  8)

I know I said I was going to start stripping it down for paint, but I got one last update before I do. It's a good un. :)

I always wanted something a bit special exhaust wise, so I went to see a long time friend of mine Turbo Thomas who custom made me this absolute stunning 1 3/4" merged header with turbo muffler. I am really pleased with it as the fit is perfect, the welding is stunning, and he positioned the muffler exactly where I wanted it to sit under the rear valance. You just don't get something that well made of good fitting off the shelf.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/exhaust1.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/exhaust2.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/exhaust3.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/exhaust4.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/exhaust5.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/exhaust6.jpg)

He also used a more modern style collector, which is held on with springs, which I think looks super good. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/exhaust7.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/exhaust8.jpg)

So that's it, it really is time to start stripping it down for paint. :)

Dude  8)

amen, brother. That is some beautiful craftsmanship and it has the potential to outlast the car. Congratulations.

I have one question: why didn't you eliminate the conventional slip joints? I totally understand the slip joints to the collector (and think it's a good idea) but the other slip joints are largely redundant. Manufacturers build those into production systems so they will fit dozens of engine combinations. This header on the other hand was made for this particular engine. Plus slip joints represent potential leak spots.

Not knocking the job at all--it really is beautiful--but I'm just curious. 

Cheers fella, i completly agree. :)


Good question mate, and I did check with Rich. Not suprsingly knowing him there done not for ease but for a specific reason.

He leaves the slip joint in as as the motor gets hot as it expands, and if it was welded together, over time this may lead to the header cracking. Agreed about slip joint being a potential sorce of leaking. However, the slips on this arnt baggy mass produced once, there super tight fits, thus i pretty sure there not gonna leak, especially with a bit of exhaust paste. :-)

Dude  8)

Well time for an update, and there is a lot to update. :)

The car has now been fully stripped down, with the pan and body separated, so it’s time to get some paint in them.

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration01_zps9effceaa.jpg)

Now at this point I must say, the paint has always been an important part of the build for me, and here only the best will do. This is why I chose Nick and Stevo at Double H Restoration to do the job. :)

The car was painted in two stages. Firstly the chassis was painted. When I collected this I dropped the body off, as I simply hadn’t got room for both in my garage at the same time. It also meant I could building the floorpan up whilst the body was being done. Thanks to Nick and Stevo for being so understanding about this.  :)

However, they are in Coventry and I’m in South Wales so I needed to get both the body and the floorpan to them! In order to do this I built a transport frame for the floorpan which fitted into the back of my van. It only just fitted though!!

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration02_zps7fda9e2b.jpg)

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration03_zps5b17b43a.jpg)

Once the floor pan was delivered the first thing they did was to media blast it. Luckily they found no serious rust in it, other than a small amount of pitting. :)

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration04_zpsf8c26421.jpg)

Stevo then worked his magic on the pan, undersealing the bottom, filling any pitting, and finally giving it a coat of gloss black. I am so impressed with the finish on this. Its BETTER than a new pan! :)

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration05_zpsd120b982.jpg)

This picture show the quality of Double H's work. Spring plates painted, wet flatted and polished.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration06_zps4f04080d.jpg)

Other parts painted by Double H.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration07_zpsf8c9c1e4.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration08_zps823410b5.jpg)

And here’s a few parts I painted. Well I say ‘a few’ parts, there were bloody hundred of little chassis parts that you don’t think about that all need stripping down, prepping, and painting. :o

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration09_zpsb676ce8b.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration10_zps9cbaf6dd.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration11_zpse21584e5.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration12_zpsce659844.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration13_zps66007ad5.jpg)

Stevo also painted some old panels so that I could decide on the final colour for the body. It is definitely going to be blue, but I’m trying to decide whether it was going to be Fjord Blue L434 (left) or Capri Blue L335 (right). I decided on Capri Blue in the end. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration14_zpse6069f08.jpg)

Before I move onto the floorpan build up, here’s the Body delivered to Double H Restorations. Again a special transport frame was built to take it there. The body bolts to the frame, and it can then be ratchet strapped down to a trailer. Having caster wheels it also means it easy to move around in the workshop.

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration15_zps17b1dc87.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration16_zpse65acc09.jpg)

However, there a lot more panels than just the body, doors, decklid (decklids in my case!), and bonnet that need painting! Here’s all the other panels I stripped off the car! You don’t realise how many there are until you put them all together! :o

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration17_zps51d44f0d.jpg)

Now at this point, (and on a slight tangent), I gotta say a massive thanks to my Dad for re-roofing my garage, so that I’ve got a dry, non-damp place to build the car in :) (Not that my dad even knows what the internet is!!). It great not to have guttering inside the garage, and not find your tools covered in condensation. :)

Here’s the freshly painted pan back in my lovely dry new garage. I am so pleased with the finish on this. Note the flat and polished bulk head and frame forks.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration18_zps82a95108.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration19_zps7a2e53e7.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration20_zps01e375c8.jpg)

The underside of the pan was undersealed as its going to be a car that gets driven.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration21_zps5ae629ee.jpg)

Now initially I started on the rear suspension, and the first job I tried to do was to fit the spring plate. However, sadly the new rubbers seemed to be too stiff for my old spring plate covers (Which Double H restoration had beautifully painted), and they bent the covers. :(

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration22_zps74c41887.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration23_zps2f74a4ca.jpg)

After a lot of discussion with people, I decide to change to later style swing axle spring plate covers, as their made of much thicker steel. The only down side is there no hole in them for the tube to stick out. They are in the process of being sent out to an engineer to have the hole machined in them.

Following this slight issue, I turned my attention to the front of the car. However, before I bolted the beam on, I decided to fit the braking and fuel systems, as it was easier to do without the beam in the way.

Here’s the freshly painted tunnel cover plate with a fuel line bulk head fitting.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration24_zpsb27a3923.jpg)

And heres it exiting at the rear of the tunnel.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration25_zpsb8efb504.jpg)

The filter and pump fitted in the bulkhead.

Note, the aluminium part of the pump body has been polished, with the raw steel part as well as the clamp being lacquered to stop them rusting.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration26_zpsbdfe81a4.jpg)

And here’s the fuel line connected to the front bulk head connection (yes the beams on! Not all pictures are in order!)

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration27_zps17e6ce70.jpg)

Next I turned my attention to the breaking system. Here is the 944 master cylinder and reservoir fitted, as well as the line lock. I know its sad, but the brake lines have been polished.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration28_zps4faf859b.jpg)

And here’s a good photo of both the braking system and fuel system.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration29_zpse9829b28.jpg)

And here’s the brake lines at the back. It took me ages to get it all run nicely! The brake line furrels are actually stainless steel items (which were hard to find!) as the steel ones I used in the trial build had rusted, thus I decided they needed replacing with stainless versions.

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration30_zps9f53078c.jpg)

Talking of braking systems, here’s the handbrake! I originally wanted to paint it factory correct stone beige (L471). However, after asking 5-6 paint shops you’d think I was asking for unicorn tears!! ::) In the end I colour matched some factory painted parts to the closest colour I could, and I’m happy with the result. :)

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration31a_zps4163c070.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration31b_zps551d1f38.jpg)

And still talking of brakes, here’s the pedal assembly all painted, and bolted up. Until you rebuild your pedals you don’t realise how many parts there are, I.e. how many parts I had to repaint!!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration32_zps049b7060.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration33_zps428dc7d3.jpg)

I didn’t like the wobbly z bar thing on the accelerator pedal so this has been swapped for an adjustable rose joint system. The pedal stop plate and l bracket thingie has also been swapped for stainless steel versions.

So at last it’s time to bolt the beam on. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration34_zps988371ec.jpg)

Caster shims are fitted, and the beam was bolted on using standard, but plated, high tensile bolts. Where possible I have replaced steel bolt/ nuts with stainless, with the sway-a-way adjuster bolts being a good example of this.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration35_zps3f6ecfbe.jpg)

The drop arms and shocks were then fitted.  Due to loss of paint on the KYB shocks when the outer casing were removed to give clearance on the beam I decided to repaint them. A similar grey with a slight metallic was used. However, after initial painting I decided it wasn’t shiny enough, so I lacquered them as well!!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration36_zps18ad4880.jpg)

Rather than used standard steel nuts on the drop arms these were replaced with stainless nuts and washers.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration37_zps8e1cbaec.jpg)

Next up I bolted the axles on. Stainless steel link pin pinch bolts were used.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration38_zps1e542e95.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration39_zps64c09edc.jpg)

The freshly painted steering box was also bolted on at this point. A later box was used in the end as it allowed me to incorporate steering stop, so that the tyres didn’t rub on the inner arches.

Note the polished steering box top, done by hand in my front room, taking two nights much to the annoyance of my wife who hates the smell of autosol!!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration40_zps4f9c6ac0.jpg)

Now a steering box is no use without tie rods, so here’s the tie rods fitted. A steering damper has also been added.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration41_zps38878d5e.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration42_zpse2895c7a.jpg)

Again more stainless items. This time the tie rod locking tabs. These will be locked down once the tracking is done.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration43a_zps8fbef7cb.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration43b_zps38c4d516.jpg)

So here’s the chassis with the front suspension all the way out to the stub axles done. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration44_zpsb90f0cfe.jpg)

Sorry it been so long since the last update. I hope you liked it. :)

Dude 8)

Wow Dude, that's looking great!  You've got more patience than me...

I cant believe it hasn't got deanodynosoars valve covers on it ;D 

Looks real good apart from that :D

cheers Richie

javascript:void(0);
Cheers Neil. :) Dunno about patience, some just say I got to much time on my hands!!  ;D

Dude  8)


LOL! Cheers Richie, that's a sore point! I DID have DDS valve covers which the Mrs spent a lot on as a birthday present. However when I went to bolt them up I realised they were ether very early and rare 1200 ones, or just shitty Randar copies!!  >:( Not selling them though as Paul Schley has signed them. :)

Also had a DDS linkage for it, but they don't fit with a MSD dizzy, believe me I tried lots of modifications to get it to fit!!

Dude  8)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Deanodynosaursrockercovers_zps547909fa.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Deanodynosaursrockercovers1_zpsdb2083df.jpg)

Awesome job! Can't wait to see it in paint.  :)

looking great dude!

Thank you! Me neither! :)


Cheers mate. :)

Just read the thread from the start. Great work dude.
Inspiration  8)
OL

Good work Dude.

Nice to see the works still going on.  
It really is unbelievable to me to see how many similarities there are to my build (which is still on going), to the point that Steveo did all of my paint, the pan stand which he painted your pan on is what I made to do mine and ended up giving to Steveo when I'd finished with it.  I too polished all the copper/nickel brake lines and have fabed a boat load of small detail parts from stainless and aluminium.

We really need to get together at a show and discuss our projects, lol  :D

Keep up the good work fella

Brad

Same here. Nice work . . . and thanks for the ideas!  ;)

Thanks all for the kind comments. :)

Brad sounds like great minds think alike! I love the car your building. One of my all time favourite cars. :)

We deffo need to catch up at a show soon and talk cars. :)

Done a little bit more. I've detailed the starter motor!! I really need to get out more!!  ;D

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/null_zps2678f832.jpg)

Dude  8)

Looking soooo nice Dude. Really impressive workmanship  :) That's exactly what I want to do one day!!!

Ello Puzzy! :)

Hope all is good in Sweeden ya! Gutted i cant make it, but look after Stretch n Rodders.

You can do this Puzz, you swapped engine, gearboxs n everything now. :)

Dude  8)

It's not too late to jump in the nun bus and hard-pedal it to Sweden!!!

I can't wait to see that car done Dude, I'm loving the build. Keep the updates coming  ;D

Good morning, do you know if your Porsche brake master cylinder is the early or late type ? Are the parts numbers still visible ?  Thanks

Hi Dave,

Doh, i know there was something i was meant to look at yesterday!  ::)

Not sure of the top of my head mate, i'll chewck tonight. :)

Dude  8)

WOW...!  :o

Greasy Dave,

Finally tried to find some numbers on the master cylinder for you.  :)

Looking at some photos I took off the car, the road side has 04537 with a 27 in a circle next to it.

On the tunnel side there is the letters HA and VA near the reservoir plugs, and the number 987/4 (I think!) on the main body, with a 84 in the circle.

I hope this helps. :)

Dude  8)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Misc/Master1_zps97facd1d.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/Misc/Master1_zps97facd1d.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/Misc/Master2_zpsaf2704e8.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/Misc/Master2_zpsaf2704e8.jpg.html)

Cheers fella, its getting there. :)

Dude  8)

Thanks for that ,much appreciated.There is an early & a late type.Don't want to buy the wrong one.

No worries. Out of intrest is it a early or late one?

I just brought it off a vw guy, and he'd fitted it prevoius so i know it fitted, but not much else about it.

Dude  8)

Well it’s been a while, but time for an update, and it’s a good one. The chassis is finally finished and rolling. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/ChassisBuild13_zps683fa322.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/ChassisBuild13_zps683fa322.jpg.html)
 
There was a lot of work in between my last post and the chassis getting finished, so if your interested please feel free to read on!

One thing I hadn’t done in the trial build was to fit the gearbox I was going to use. This was important as I needed to re-drill the nose cone hockey stick so that it correctly connected to the urethane gearshift bush allowing all gears to be selected.

Luckily the transport frame I built for the van also allowed me to install the gearbox without removing it. Here is the gearbox trial fitted with the nose cone drilled and all 5 gears working (4 forward and one backwards, not a 5 speed!!).

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild074_zpse517d7bf.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild074_zpse517d7bf.jpg.html)

It was then time to finally fit the gearbox for real. Thank you very much to my good friend Stretch for his help with setting the axle play and also for fitting the gearbox with me (as well as fit the spring plates). :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild056_zps71a4f2b0.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild056_zps71a4f2b0.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild055_zps704dcf30.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild055_zps704dcf30.jpg.html)

The rear mount is fitted using stainless framework bolts and washers. Rhino gearbox mounts are fitted both front and back, with a BERG mid mount in the middle. Again thanks to Stevo at Double H Restorations for the amazing paint on the rear and mid mount.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild057_zpsfc20357e.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild057_zpsfc20357e.jpg.html)

Here the clutch arm fitted. The original spring I had broke so I had to fit the new one pictures here. The nut has been replaced for a ‘six shooter’ style nut making adjustment of the clutch much easier.
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild058_zps33a361c1.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild058_zps33a361c1.jpg.html)

Where I could I replaced the original nuts and bolts on the gearbox with stainless items I did. It was fun trying to find these m7 bolts for the nose cone, as it turns out these are not a very often used size, especially in stainless!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild059_zps7bce239d.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild059_zps7bce239d.jpg.html)

And the side plates (yes they’ve been polished!) nut changed for stainless items (before the axles were fitted).
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild060_zpsc5319df7.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild060_zpsc5319df7.jpg.html)

The clutch operating arm is held in location by a dowel bolt and as ever I decide to change this for a stainless item as it let the rest of the gearbox down. Nobody actually sells these so I made this from scratch myself with a drill, a grinder, and a lot of careful measuring.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild061_zpsd651f036.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild061_zpsd651f036.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild062_zpsacd4f2a9.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild062_zpsacd4f2a9.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild063_zpsc8cc8b5f.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild063_zpsc8cc8b5f.jpg.html)

Here the gearshift coupling fitted up (correctly with lock wire), and the super shiney painted cover plate. Note the three stainless hex head bolts to hold it down rather than a self taper.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild064_zps1a0fde4e.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild064_zps1a0fde4e.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild065_zps945430f5.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild065_zps945430f5.jpg.html)

The rear suspension has been a bit of a nightmare, as I had issues with the original spring plate covers bending with the new rubber suspension donut as they were not strong enough. This was annoying as I had had these items painted and polished.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Restoration23_zps2f74a4ca.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Restoration23_zps2f74a4ca.jpg.html)

Being an ‘early’ car however, it was swing axle but had spring plate end which pertuding through the spring plate covers. However nobody sells swing axle spring plate covers with a hole in them!! Thus I had Paul at Bears Motorsport machine holes in some spring plate covers for me.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild067_zpsc0e3ab71.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild067_zpsc0e3ab71.jpg.html)

And finally them painted and fitted.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild068_zps90b1fc2a.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild068_zps90b1fc2a.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild069_zpsa82b56ac.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild069_zpsa82b56ac.jpg.html)

And here’s the shocks fitted up as well as the rear disk brake calliper bracket and bearing cover.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild070_zps7c7d33b9.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild070_zps7c7d33b9.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild071_zps84305d9c.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild071_zps84305d9c.jpg.html)

The completed rear end with the gearbox and suspension all fitted up.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild072_zpsa2f27f56.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild072_zpsa2f27f56.jpg.html)

Next up was to finish the brakes off. Now as the disk had sat in my damp garage for ages, a bit of surface rust had appeared. However this was soon cleaned off, and the centre of the drum was given a new coat of paint.

Here’s the before and after of the front brakes.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakessystem18_zpse571fd28.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Brakessystem18_zpse571fd28.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakessystem21_zps253f0599.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Brakessystem21_zps253f0599.jpg.html)

The calipers were also treated to a coat of paint as they were starting to look a bit shabby.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakessystem23_zps0ca1459a.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Brakessystem23_zps0ca1459a.jpg.html)

And the front brakes all fitted up. Please note, I HATE the gold grease caps, and these are currently away being powder coated black!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakessystem24_zpsfd80e6d6.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Brakessystem24_zpsfd80e6d6.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakessystem25_zps4d38b9fe.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Brakessystem25_zps4d38b9fe.jpg.html)

Turning my attention to the rear disk brakes these had also rusted a bit, but again this was soon cleaned off, and given a fresh coat of paint.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakessystem29_zpseae97853.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Brakessystem29_zpseae97853.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakessystem31_zpsa23b03a2.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Brakessystem31_zpsa23b03a2.jpg.html)

The rear calipers also get dismantled, and a fresh coat of paint.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakessystem35_zpsca59860c.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Brakessystem35_zpsca59860c.jpg.html)

And the rear disks and calipers fitted up.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakessystem36_zps71171c0a.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Brakessystem36_zps71171c0a.jpg.html)

Here you can see the handbrake cable and brake lines also fitted, using a custom made split bracket.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Brakessystem39_zps0cd379eb.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Brakessystem39_zps0cd379eb.jpg.html)

And all the brakes fitted. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/ChassisBuild11_zps20ae1bae.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/ChassisBuild11_zps20ae1bae.jpg.html)

Although there only copies, I thought I’d give the ‘workshop’ wheels a clean and polish. Yes I know I need 4! I still had one left to clean up at this point!! :D

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/WheelsPolished_zps8e54779d.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/WheelsPolished_zps8e54779d.jpg.html)

And finally the rolling pan.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild073_zpsbfb1deb7.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild073_zpsbfb1deb7.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/ChassisBuild14_zps201e7a64.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/ChassisBuild14_zps201e7a64.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/ChassisBuild16_zpsbd01b963.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/ChassisBuild16_zpsbd01b963.jpg.html)


Well it’s nice to finally get it finished, and I’m really pleased with how it turned out. :) Hope some of you are still awake! :D

Engine ancillaries (tinwear etc) to paint and detail now!!

Dude 8)

Neil this is looking ace, that chassis is gorgeous!

Rob.

Looks ace  ;D

Nice job! Very detailed!

Beautiful Dude! Its almost a shame to cover that up with a body...

Cheers all. :-) I am proper pleased to get it finished, as it taken a age!  ::)

LOL! Neil, yeah it will be a shame, but i'll get over it!!  ;D
How are you mate, long time no see..........

Dude  8)

Lookin good Dude.

I remember doing all this to mine a couple of years ago, it's very satisfying work.
Again, it's un canny how similar your build is to mine: cal look style using a early 60s sedan with an OG ragtop grafted in, lead loading, paint done by Steveo,, polished or painted everything, braided brake fuel and oil lines, etc.

We REALLY need to meet up and swap stories!! Ha ha.

Whens you projects finish date?  I'm hoping to get my off to the trimmer over winter, maybe I time for the Volksworld show.

Keep up the stellar work

Brad

Looking to nice to drive again....

Great project! I really like your attention to details  :)

I noticed you are using the Bugpack gearshift coupling, I'm not saying it doesn't work but I've had bad experience with them. It felt firm and worked well in the beginning, but after at season with only about 100 miles on the road and 5-6 passes down the strip it was ready for bin. I couldn't quick shift from 1st to 2nd anymore. The fact that the coupling was toast didn't come to my mind because i felt so solid when i mounted it, I just check that the screws where tightened. First I thought it was the synchro rings i the gearbox(since I'm using the heavy black magic disc) or maybe that the forks had moved so I pulled the gearbox apart and didn't find anything wrong. Assembled i again only to find out that the problem was still there. I offcourse then turned my focus to the coupling(which I should have done in the first place >:( ) and saw that it was twisting when I moved the shifter from side to side. I swapped it for an original one and haven't had any problem since. Needless to say, I for sure will never use one again. And I have noticed that lots of people have had problems with the urethane mountings they sell for the gearbox aswell, but I noticed that you have gone for the CB mounts on your gearbox. I have the same mounts and they still look fine after 12 years.

Regards

Folke

I think I felt my winky wiggle! Looking REAL nice Dude.

Just out of interest, what disc brakes are you using mate? That's my next upgrade.

Hi folke,

Sorry only just seen this. Hmmm, that's interesting about the coupler. I have re-profiled the screws ends so the sit perfectly in the shift rod and gearbox hockey stick indents, but that wont address the twisting. I suppose the best I can do is wait and see, and see if i do have any problems with selecting gears. If I do, as per your suggestion i'll go back to a stock one. I got a good condition genuine one kicking around so its not a problem. :) As for the CB mounts, I've had them in other cars and the only problem i'I've had is the fit is terrible. when there fitted they actual pertrude past the bell housing. The easiest solution I've found is to trim them with a sharp knife. It good to hear they last though. :)

Cheers,

Dude  8)

Butterscotch, we deffo need a pint and a good gossip fella. :)

Puz, how you doing fella. :) It's getting there mate. :) Disk brakes are standard later ones at the front, with talbot horizon calipers, and at the back CB Roto Hubs. :-)

Right, it been a while, but time for an update. I apologise now, its not shiny stuff, it nerdy tinwear modification stuff!!  ;D

Now although the engine is been built, and has been run in the car, there were always a few things I had wanted to change/ improve on it. One of these was the fit of the tinwear.

A big issue with the tinwear was the fit of the manifolds in the cylinder tin. In the picture you can see the D ported intakes of the cylinder heads. Standard cylinder tin is just not going to fit.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild113_zps48fdb87b.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild113_zps48fdb87b.jpg.html)

The size of the manifold bases also added to the issue. I’m using vintage DDS manifolds, and as standard the base of the manifolds did not fit the tin, and also was not large enough for the porting of the heads. Luckily my good friend James at Stateside Tuning was able to get the welding done for me, even keeping the all-important DDS Logo. (Yes, the manifolds still need porting!)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild114_zps0f4011d9.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild114_zps0f4011d9.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild115_zpsf8e93137.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild115_zpsf8e93137.jpg.html)

So how do I make the cylinder tins fit these enlarged manifolds? Well here was my ‘intermediate solution that I used during the trial build. Simply cut them and bend them back! Not pretty, and questionable effects on cooling ability.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild116_zps60526772.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild116_zps60526772.jpg.html)

Thus I decided that I needed to do this in a better way. The solution was to fabricate and weld in a whole new inner section in. This took a lot of careful measurement (and a lot of time!)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild117_zps9d7164f9.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild117_zps9d7164f9.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild118_zpsc00197fd.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild118_zpsc00197fd.jpg.html)

Now something I had always hated about aftermarket cylinder tin (there was no point using OG tin if it was going to be cut around so much!) was that they did not include the directional air veins. Thus I added them back in.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild119_zps596ccdfc.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild119_zps596ccdfc.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild120_zps76e94cd4.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild120_zps76e94cd4.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild121_zps6fece557.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild121_zps6fece557.jpg.html)

I also decided I wanted to fit the cylinder under tin. Most people chuck these away, but VW put it there for a reason, so I thought I’d keep them too. Unfortunately as ever the fit of aftermarket tin is terrible, and finding good (and realistically priced) genuine piece is nigh on impossible!  ::)

In the end I found some genuine tin that was in reasonable condition and repaired/ modified this. (Note: The space between the bottom and top of the tin is due to the larger ports on the exhaust off the 044 heads. This will be sorted out later)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild122_zps579dd8c6.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild122_zps579dd8c6.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild123_zpsd6b2687c.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild123_zpsd6b2687c.jpg.html)

And the other side.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild124_zps387cef99.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild124_zps387cef99.jpg.html)

Another thing people always usual do away with is the front small pieces of under cylinder cooling tin by the pulley wheel. Again I decided to add these back in.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild125_zps08b07f84.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild125_zps08b07f84.jpg.html)

I also made some slight improvements to this under tin by putting back steel where VW had removed it for stuff like breather pipes etc, as I was not running any of this. This is it as VW made it.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild126_zpsf3023cb6.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild126_zpsf3023cb6.jpg.html)

And my modifications.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild127_zpsef358a16.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild127_zpsef358a16.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild128_zpsa12c32de.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild128_zpsa12c32de.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild129_zps0eaa337f.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild129_zps0eaa337f.jpg.html)

Now as pointed out earlier, there is a gap between the bottom and top of the tin due to the larger exhaust ports. Although I could have extended the head tin down, I did not want to do this as, 1) I didn’t want to mess around with the tin anymore, and 2) the profile of the tin where they meet internally was off in places and extending the tins wouldn’t address this. Therefore decided to fill the gaps with aluminium spacers.

Here is some example of the spacers fitted. Some needed more/ less spacing than others.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild130_zps6f8108d4.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild130_zps6f8108d4.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild131_zpsabd67150.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild131_zpsabd67150.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild132_zps8a6bc2be.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild132_zps8a6bc2be.jpg.html)

Now although not the prettiest solution, it did allow me to address the issue of the internals of the bottom and top tin not matching together great (in places leaving step between the two). It also had the advantage of smooth the flow of air from the top to the bottom tin. Therefore I put angles on the edges of the aluminium plates to smooth the air flow.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild133_zpsd467b398.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild133_zpsd467b398.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild134_zps40846d15.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild134_zps40846d15.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild135_zps75d9dd4d.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild135_zps75d9dd4d.jpg.html)

Now there no point putting all this under tin back and making sure there a smooth flow of air if there are huge gaps where the heat exchangers would have been. (I’m running a merged system with J pipes). Therefore I fabricated some industrial shields to close the gaps. These tins are similar to those used on industrial motors that did not have heat exchangers.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild136_zpseda9795b.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild136_zpseda9795b.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild137_zpsfba64665.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild137_zpsfba64665.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild138_zpsc9dc4fc6.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild138_zpsc9dc4fc6.jpg.html)

Turning my attention to the fanshroud, I am running a SCAT 1200 style aftermarket version as with a genuine fan shroud there was clearance issues with my carbs, and also I do not need heat exchanger outlets.

These SCAT fanshrouds are not as well built as genuine VW items, and although OK, they can be improved upon. One area where they can be improved is where the oil cooler sits in the fan shroud. Poor build quality in the aftermarket item leaves a large gap where air can bypass the cooler.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild139_zpsa565d04a.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild139_zpsa565d04a.jpg.html)

Therefore I simply welded a sealing piece on the mounting bracket, which closes this gap.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild140_zps4381e4a7.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild140_zps4381e4a7.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild141_zpsbb96ffe4.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild141_zpsbb96ffe4.jpg.html)

And finally the fanshroud was put back on.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild142_zps6d334737.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild142_zps6d334737.jpg.html)

Now a problem with larger capacity engines with long stroke cranks is that they are wider than standard engines. As the heads are further out, this leaves a gap between the cylinder head tin and the fanshrouud. A simple solution to this was to make some aluminium spacers. I thought i’d use some nice dress washers to finish them off.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild143_zpsb9989049.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild143_zpsb9989049.jpg.html)

Now the final thing I wanted to tidy up was where the ignition leads ran. Leads were kept apart using separator clips, and these were attached to a square bar running across the width of the engine, a nod to the oval style lead tube.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild144_zps1e67466c.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild144_zps1e67466c.jpg.html)

However, i decided this was a bit to ‘in your face’, so I used smaller brackets attached to tinwear screws (These are in the centre, its the camera angle!!)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild145_zps52eda44a.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild145_zps52eda44a.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild146_zpse4a3b775.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild146_zpse4a3b775.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/panrebuild147_zps82aa0fd9.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/panrebuild147_zps82aa0fd9.jpg.html)

So that it for all the tinwear modification. I'm tempted to fit a venturi ring to the fanhosuing, but not sure if i will or not yet. Gonna do a bit of research to see if there an expensive gimmick, or a worth wile modification.

Hope you enjoyed my nerding. :)

Dude  8)

Quick bit of a update, and sadly it seems like I haven’t been doing a lot, but I really have!!

Engine has now been fully stripped down, and the tinwear etc is ready to go off and be powdercoated. So that dust, grit etc didn’t get into the motor I made some cover plates. :)
 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update1_zpsf0175274.jpg)

Next up I set around polishing the shiney engine parts. These are going to be laqured to stop them going dull again.
 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update2_zpscf3d49d9.jpg)

All fitting where possible have been replaced with stainless items. It was a pain getting these for the BERG linkage as its all imperial.
 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update3_zps7d364ba9.jpg)

The carbs have also been stripped down and rebuilt.
 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update4_zps942fa545.jpg)

These were also give a bit of a tart up with stainless fittings being used where I could as well as custom ali fittings (i.e. holding the carb trumpet down)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update5_zps71941fbb.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update6_zpsbb66314b.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update7_zps34bea071.jpg)

In terms of the shell, some of the bolt on body panels are actually being primered as we speak. There some issues with getting the doors to fit right, and this has meant I have had to buy numerous door, at extortionate prices. :(

Here’s hoping it will all be worth it in the end. :)

Dude  8)

Are hey the Joe Bence velocity stack retaining clamps.

Yes mate, there a great bit of kit. :)

Dude

Been considering them for mine, finishes things off nicely. Did you buy them direct from Joe.

Those are nice. Where do you get them?

http://www.jbevwstore.com/48ida-velocity-stack-hold-downs-rin48.html

Cheers Taylor, yep from here. :)

 8)

Time for a bit of an update as it really is overdue.

Turning my attention to the motor first, something I always hated about the engine was dull finish of the case due to oxidisation. It just didn’t look right with all the work I’d done on the rest of the car. Thus I decided to paint it using engine enamel.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new01_zps2b1fa087.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new01_zps2b1fa087.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new02_zpscd6e289d.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new02_zpscd6e289d.jpg.html)


I'm really pleased with the final results. :)

Yes I know there is much debate about painting cases, but it done now so well see.........(n.b. heads removed so that the manifolds can be match ported)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new03_zpsd40bfea0.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new03_zpsd40bfea0.jpg.html)

Despite a long wait, work has also begun on the body as well. :)

To recap (my UK friends might remember that annoying phrase from Beetle Crisis!) the body was delivered to Double H Restorations last year (the boys at Double H have a long waiting list), but it has finally began to get some love.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new04_zps215dd7c6.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new04_zps215dd7c6.jpg.html)

Now although I’d trial fitted the doors I’d always knew they’d need some adjustment as they were tight at the B pillars and were not even all the way down.

Using a panel gap gauge Nick of Double H Restorations measured the gap at the B pillars. They definitely needed some adjustment. :-s

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new05_zpsd3c45a5e.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new05_zpsd3c45a5e.jpg.html)

In the end we tried a couple of different doors to see if it was the doors, or the body, that was out of shape. It turned out that all the doors fitted pretty much the same, and thus we decided it was the body that would be adjusted.

I had actually got some genuine 59 doors by this point. It had always bugged me that the door I had initially used were slightly later door (60-63), thus it was decided that we would use the 59 doors even though they had a few dents and dings in them. I must be nuts as the 60-63 doors were new old stock!!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new06_zps02feb5ba.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new06_zps02feb5ba.jpg.html)

However the 59 doors would need to be adjusted as well, as they also did not fit great down the B pillar. In the end Nick awesome metal work skills saved the day with him actually slitting the edge of the B pillars and moving these in order to set the gap. Although this sounds drastic it allowed the alignment on both doors to be set perfectly.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new07_zpsb37e6bc9.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new07_zpsb37e6bc9.jpg.html)
 
The body was then mounted on a roll over jig so the underside could be checked out. Sadly a few patches of rust were found.:(

Both rear body mounts needed some work. Although the passenger side was repaired by lettings in some fresh steel in, the driver’s side was going to need some more substantial repair work.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new08_zps11202fad.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new08_zps11202fad.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new09_zps3631ef12.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new09_zps3631ef12.jpg.html)

A repair panel was sourced, but the quality of this was poor with it being very different from the original panel. The shock tower hole was square not round, and the body mount was a very poor copy of the original.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new10_zpsad796f7f.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new10_zpsad796f7f.jpg.html)

However, a spot on reproduction of the original mount was sourced from Hooky's Panel Shop, with Nick sectioning the new and the old panels together.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new11_zpse9311c4e.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new11_zpse9311c4e.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new12_zps1936e383.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new12_zps1936e383.jpg.html)

And here's the repaired panel. Massive thanks to Nick for all his attention to detail. It is impossible to tell that the panel has been repaired at all. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new13_zps3a634b7b.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new13_zps3a634b7b.jpg.html)

The carpet grip strips on the heater channels were also looking a bit worse for wear.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new14_zps512e80c7.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new14_zps512e80c7.jpg.html)

Once removed a whole lot of rust was found behind the strips.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new15_zps5a61fd1b.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new15_zps5a61fd1b.jpg.html)

Luckily the rust cleaned away nicely leaving solid metal. Nick again saved the day by hand fabricated new carpet grip strips as none are available for early cars. Thanks again dude. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new16_zps938e62a4.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new16_zps938e62a4.jpg.html)
 
Once the doors were fitted and the repair work was completed Nick began to strip the paint off the body. Luckily most of the outer panels were pretty solid.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new17_zpsefd3153e.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new17_zpsefd3153e.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new18_zps4599d94c.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new18_zps4599d94c.jpg.html)

Work has also begun on the other panels. The bonnet has been blasted, filled and primered.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new19_zps91fd0516.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new19_zps91fd0516.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new20_zpsec097103.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new20_zpsec097103.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new21_zps8efbcbe6.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new21_zps8efbcbe6.jpg.html)

Both the vert and standard decklids have also been fillered and primered. Really pleased with the vert decklid, as it was in really bad shape when I first got it.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new22_zps0371d4e7.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new22_zps0371d4e7.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new23_zpsc28a9e30.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new23_zpsc28a9e30.jpg.html)

The wings are also now in primer.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new24_zpsbfd9fd45.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new24_zpsbfd9fd45.jpg.html)

As are many of the smaller parts.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/new25_zpsce3e7702.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/new25_zpsce3e7702.jpg.html)

So that’s where the car is at the moment. :)

Hopefully more updates soon. :)

Dude  8)

Quick update

Stevo has really got on with the bodywork of the car now. The first thing that was done with the body shell was it was shot blasted and all the old paint was stripped off.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body30_zpsdd28967c.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body30_zpsdd28967c.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body31_zps1c7bf6eb.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body31_zps1c7bf6eb.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body32_zpsaa28b22d.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body32_zpsaa28b22d.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body33_zps5fa9514d.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body33_zps5fa9514d.jpg.html)

Luckily not much additional rust was exposed, and the body was given a coat of etch primer.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body34_zps87cde7f0.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body34_zps87cde7f0.jpg.html)

Next Stevo lead loaded the join were the ragtop was installed. I am super pleased with the finish on this. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body35_zps0a24c5be.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body35_zps0a24c5be.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body36_zps2b66e54f.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body36_zps2b66e54f.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body37_zps5271af06.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body37_zps5271af06.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body38_zps7b8f7f33.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body38_zps7b8f7f33.jpg.html)

And finally after some filling work, the first coat of filer primer and a guide coat were applied.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body39_zpsecc4619d.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body39_zpsecc4619d.jpg.html)

Stevo even prepped and filled any imperfections in the engine bay and under the bonnet. :)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body40_zpse03ad43b.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body40_zpse03ad43b.jpg.html)
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body41_zps42ec558b.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body41_zps42ec558b.jpg.html)

During the prep work Stevo even found a mysterious number 7 stamped into the front wheel panel by one of the inspection plates. No idea what it is, but it’s being kept!! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body42_zps3a2c59b4.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body42_zps3a2c59b4.jpg.html)

Well its finally starting to look like a car.  :)

Dude  8)

Well finally time for a bit of an update.  :)

The car body has had all the filler work done, and is now ready for a final coat of primer before the top coat is applied. I cannot thank Stevo enough, the finish, even in primer is excellent. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer01_zpsc750c4aa.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer01_zpsc750c4aa.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer11_zps971eae13.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer11_zps971eae13.jpg.html)

You’d never know it didn’t come with a ragtop from the factory! :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer03_zps9eaabee8.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer03_zps9eaabee8.jpg.html)

The modified pressing in the wheel well also now looks factory. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer07_zps7abb6df2.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer07_zps7abb6df2.jpg.html)


(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer19_zps4ab99928.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer19_zps4ab99928.jpg.html)

Here some of the body panels waiting for final coat also. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer22_zps8e7f3693.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer22_zps8e7f3693.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer23_zps2cceb063.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer23_zps2cceb063.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer24_zpsb913d64c.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer24_zpsb913d64c.jpg.html)

Talking of final coat, here’s the heater tube cover thingies in Capri blue. I can’t wait to see the rest of the car painted in this colour. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer25_zpsb4c89cd5.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/BodyinFinalPrimer25_zpsb4c89cd5.jpg.html)

Stevo has also painted and polished the rocker cover. I love these. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RacetrimPaintedRockerCovers2_zpsaa69b746.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/RacetrimPaintedRockerCovers2_zpsaa69b746.jpg.html)

And here’s a hint of the next engine part to get painted (Please note, this was an earlier colour match, we have now got it a lot closer).

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/72DDSPaintMatching_zps34f0aee1.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/72DDSPaintMatching_zps34f0aee1.jpg.html)

Whilst were still on paint, I have painted and detailed a few of the cars internal parts myself. Here’s the wiper motor mechanism, and the SWF washer bottle.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Rebuiltwipermotor3_zps13bebb7d.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Rebuiltwipermotor3_zps13bebb7d.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/SWFWasherBottle2_zpsfcaaff19.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/SWFWasherBottle2_zpsfcaaff19.jpg.html)

I have also been fettling with other bits. I was never happy that the 912 seats as they do not allow the use of crotch strap. Thus I modified them so they can be fitted. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessCrotchStrapModification4_zps3bd84aaa.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/HarnessCrotchStrapModification4_zps3bd84aaa.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessCrotchStrapModification6_zps7e39c5e1.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/HarnessCrotchStrapModification6_zps7e39c5e1.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/HarnessCrotchStrapModification9_zps3460d573.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/HarnessCrotchStrapModification9_zps3460d573.jpg.html)

Dude  8)

I cant wait to see this done  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D its going to look ace x10

Looking good dude.  Looks like Steveo and Nick are doing a cracking job as always.
At this rate you'll have yours finished before me  ::)

Makes me want to try and find time to finish mine off!!!

I agree.

Looking fab!

I like the idea with the seats. It´ll look great!  :)

that lead work is amazing! looks great!

Progress?

Well, finally the update I been waiting to put up. The car is painted! :)

I cannot thank Stevo at Double H Restorations enough for all his hard work, the paint is amazing!! :) This is not even polished yet, this is straight out the gun. Dude you’re a legend. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopinPaint23_zps056140b3.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/RagtopinPaint23_zps056140b3.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopinPaint22_zpsed57dbc8.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/RagtopinPaint22_zpsed57dbc8.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopinPaint24_zpsc0607a88.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/RagtopinPaint24_zpsc0607a88.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopinPaint25_zps09a57e57.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/RagtopinPaint25_zps09a57e57.jpg.html)

Dude  8)

Seen these pics on FB. Very nice amigo, looks stunning. :)

Indigo?

Close.................. Capri Blue, the pictures just make it look a bit darker. :)

Dude  8)

Looks good dude, it been a long time a comin  8)
Matty

Looks great.

Damn Dude.... That's looking fantastic!

Cheers all. :)

See proof you can polish a turd!!  ;D

Dude :cool:

Just wow!

Love the colour  :)

Looks lovely  ;D

Can't wait to see all those great touches you've done being put back on

Looks excellent , and a great finish . Stevo's a good old boy !

Looks great. Well done.

Keep the pics coming for those who might not see it the flesh. :)

The color of dds manifolds,came from a spraycan that was for sale @ homedepot....

Well the car is finally in paint and polished. I cannot thank Stevo at Double H Restorations enough. His work is awesome. Its over 48 hours since I saw it and i'm still smiling like a loon!!

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopBodyinPaint01_zps57c14227.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/RagtopBodyinPaint01_zps57c14227.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopBodyinPaint04_zpsfdca068e.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/RagtopBodyinPaint04_zpsfdca068e.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopBodyinPaint06_zps0e639f0f.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/RagtopBodyinPaint06_zps0e639f0f.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopBodyinPaint07_zps4d008178.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/RagtopBodyinPaint07_zps4d008178.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopBodyinPaint10_zps74b3940c.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/RagtopBodyinPaint10_zps74b3940c.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopBodyinPaint15_zpsd1a8ab0b.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/RagtopBodyinPaint15_zpsd1a8ab0b.jpg.html)

The chassis has also been taken up to the workshop and will very shortly be attached to the body. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/RagtopChasisOnRoute1_zpsc426e490.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/RagtopChasisOnRoute1_zpsc426e490.jpg.html)


Dude  8)

looks good dude, will you have it ready for volksworld?

Looks real nice Neil, really coming out good 8)

cheers Richie

Cheers, I am so happy with it, its finally beginning to feel like it going to get finished. :)

'Neil'! You havent called me that for years Richard.  ;D

Hope you and yours have a great Christmas mate.   :)

Dude  8) (The artist formally know as 'Neil')

Hi Matty,

Yep, that's the plan. :)

Dude  8)

Beautiful work. Can't wait to see it finished. Well done guy!

Quick update.

Rebuild is coming on really well. Thanks to Stevo and Nick at Double H Restorations, I really appreciate all the help you guys are giving me. :)

So where we at? Well the body and pan are now back together. Here’s them just about to be joined…..

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update1_zps29addaa8.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Update1_zps29addaa8.jpg.html)

And the body on.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update2_zps68a5ac49.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Update2_zps68a5ac49.jpg.html)

The electrics and the dashboard are going in nicely. (NB, this is a temporary workshop steering wheel!!)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update3_zpsce3327ee.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Update3_zpsce3327ee.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update4_zpsbb340829.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Update4_zpsbb340829.jpg.html)

The rest is going together pretty well also. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update5_zpsb0f839c2.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Update5_zpsb0f839c2.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Update6_zpsab7e3c0e.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Update6_zpsab7e3c0e.jpg.html)

The car is finally starting to look like a car. I am so happy. :)

Dude  8)

Looks ace Dude  ;D Volksworld Show debut ?   ;)

Yep, already booked in. :)

Cant wait to see it finished mate i really cant. :)

Dude  8)

Looking good Dude, this might just tempt Em to the Volksworld Show!

It would be great to see you mate, been sooooooooooooo long. :)

Dude  8)

its going to be a stunner mate cant wait to see it finished  8)

Cheers Danny. :)

All the cool kids have blue cars mate!!  ;D

Dude  8)

^^ ;D ;D

Indeed  :D

Dude,

It's looking great, Steveo and Nick have done a cracking job.  And so have you for that point.
Keep up the good work and I'll look forward to giving it a once over at the Volksworld.  I'll come introduce myself if I can find you.

Just a shame mine can't be there to debut next to yours...
Maybe next year!!
Ha ha, I've been saying that for the last 10 years!!

Brad

Cheers Brad, really apreciated. :)

Ive worked hard at the bits i done, and im happy to have a great team of Stevo and Nick. :)

Mate, would be great to meet up and have a beer at the Volksworld show. :)
I cant wait to see your car done. Get on with it!!

Dude  8)

Dude, he's a non-drinker, he could never qualify for Team Wales... :D
Brad, what Dude said - get your car done, you're even slower than me!
See you both at Sandown!

My cars on hold, due to buying a house that needs a lot of time and money on it.
It should be worth it tho, as its a keeper (the house that is).

Oh, added to that, I had my 1st kid last year, so things have been a little busy.

All excuses I know and I WILL GET IT FINISHED!!! Ha ha    :-[

See you both at the Volksworld :)

NICE dude,

hey did you make the dash panels or buy them?
Is that a mph speedo?
sorry if have covered these earlier. 8)

Hi Mate.

Thank you. :)

The larger dash panel is a flat 4 item. The smaller one is a standard one, which I cut out the vented bits, and welded a solid section into. I then cut the holes for the Dehne. Sounds easy but actually took a while to make it look half decent.

Yep, it is a MPH speedo. I had it rebuilt by a guy who was a aircraft engineer. He used a KMH face, and re-cogged it inside so that it read correctly in MPH but up to 120mph. :)

Dude  8)

Cool stuff.
It's all in the detail 8)

Right time for an update, and it’s a goodie. :)

Pictures tell most of the story, but if I start with the obvious, the wings are all fitted, as are the tail lights, headlights, and most of the dash (Cheers Nick from Double H for your help with all this). The wirings is now also in (well 99%), and everything in the engine bay is fitted and ready for the engine. Oh, and most of the smaller bolt on parts are fitted.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body64_zps94d3b8f6.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body64_zps94d3b8f6.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body65_zpsb1ca8c08.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body65_zpsb1ca8c08.jpg.html)
 (Yes I know there’s only one headlight fitted! Latter pictures show them both fitted up)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body66_zps9fcd90a2.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body66_zps9fcd90a2.jpg.html)
(This is a temporary steering wheel by the way, there a Motalita one waiting to go in)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body67_zps6e1d784c.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body67_zps6e1d784c.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body68_zps4ba8aea7.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body68_zps4ba8aea7.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body69_zps2515892c.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body69_zps2515892c.jpg.html)

Next up the car went off Chris at Custom Coach Trimming to have the headlining fitted, as well as the all important ragtop. I cannot thank Chris enough for his excellent work on the car, the trimming is just awesome. :) He also had to get around a number of issues, but the end result is epic. :)

The first problem he encountered was with fitting the headlining. For some reason, maybe another 58 quirk, or maybe due to the car being a hard top, but the lip above the rear window was facing the wrong way?! This meant that Chris could not simply catch the headlining behind the lip and tension it up. However after a bit of head scratching Chris came up with the solution of mounting the headlining to some fibreboard, this has the added bonus of being easily removable if the ragtop needs tightening up. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body72_zpscf9e7672.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body72_zpscf9e7672.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body73_zpsb74b2d2b.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body73_zpsb74b2d2b.jpg.html)

 The second problem was the inner skins that run down the gutter of the roof line. For some reason, maybe when the ragtop was welded in, the usual gap between this had closed up. Rather than the usual 8mm gap, Chris couldn’t even get a putty knife in!!

However a quick call to Nick at Double H Restorations soon sorted that out. Nick came down and gently massaged the inner skin down.................... with a slide hammer! :D Thanks again Nick for saving the day.

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body74_zps212151e3.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body74_zps212151e3.jpg.html)

Thankfully after this there were no more problems and Chris expertly installed the headliner. I am so pleased with his amazing work. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body75_zps449ad1bc.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body75_zps449ad1bc.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body76_zpsed749212.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body76_zpsed749212.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/body77_zpsab8f378a.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/body77_zpsab8f378a.jpg.html)

However, it’s not a ragtop till the ragtop’s fitted. This bit went was relatively straightforward with Chris expertly re-trimmed the ragtop in mohair. Again he made an awesome job of this. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body78_zps9b4e4947.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body78_zps9b4e4947.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body79_zpsbe1f2ce4.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body79_zpsbe1f2ce4.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body80_zps86868f0f.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body80_zps86868f0f.jpg.html)

And here’s the car with the ragtop and headlining all fitted. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/body81_zpse509c4ba.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/body81_zpse509c4ba.jpg.html)

There has also been progress in other areas of the interior. After what seemed like months of searching I finally managed to get some blue-grey seat cloth (correct for 58-59 models) from Lenny at West Coast Classic Restorations. Thank’s dude for the help with this, really appreciated.

Lee the Trimmer then expertly re-trimmed my seats in it, and he has done an excellent job. Thanks also to Stevo of Double H for stripping down the seat bases a painting them in a fresh coat of cream before Lee worked his magic. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/body82_zps5ef51850.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/body82_zps5ef51850.jpg.html)

So that where were at, Volksworld Show the next stop. :)

Dude  8)

Super nice work as usual from the beginning!

Are you gonna use some self-adhesive seal or glue seals in front and back bonnets?

-Mikko-

Thank you Mikko :)

Gonna use the clip on style seals. There much less of a water trap than the standard seals. :)

Dude 8)

Yes that is true! Many restoring a car don't take the seal strips off not knowing what lays under. Even for a cleaning/primer and putting them back on.

Is clip on style seals a late beetle thing?

-Mikko-

Yeah that exactly the reason, the strips just trap rust underneath. We also left them off just because it gives a neater look. :)
Yeah, the clip on style are a later seal thing, but with the bonnet/ decklid closed you cant really see the diffrence. :)

Dude  8)

Looking great Dude.   8)

You've now over taken me with the work done to your car, but its great inspiration/motivation for me to get mine finished.

See you at the Volksworld    :)

Brad

Cheers Brad. Will be good to see you at the VOlksworld Show. :)

Not gonna lie, its take a lot of hard work (and money!) to get it progressing this quickly, and i cant thank Stevo and Nick at Double H for all there hard work with it.

Come on dude, get on with yours!!  ;D

Dude  8)

That's how they should be on early bugs Neil. There is still a return lip on the inside. But you've sorted it anyway :)

Hi Berny,

It's good to know I’m ‘normal’ (well my car at least!). I know Chris did look inside the rear of this with his inspection camera thing, and I think he said it didn’t have a return lip?! But I haven’t modified it at all?

Ah well, as you say it’s done now. :) On to the next problem!! :D

Dude  8)
 

Looking lovely dude, first class. Exciting stuff.

Going to the volksworld show today ?

Check out Dude's car, pretty much the first car as you walk in to main show hall

Dude you nailed it  8)

 

The interior is the best at the show. Makes a change from some stitched leather.

Had a good look over the 58 at volksworld then twigged it was yours looking & the belt brace

Dude your bug is just spot on all that need to be said ;)

Agree 100%. Loved the way it sat, stance was spot on and a great looking car. Well done.
Lee

I know I'm biased cos he's a good mate, but if it didn't top 20, there's something wrong with the world! I'd tie it for best in show with the tube framed turbo notch downstairs. Love it.

saw it yesterday, super nice car.
was the best car on the show for me

congratz on your best of show!

Too right :)

Congrats on Volksworld best of show, car looked amazing!  An inspiration for me!

 - very, very nice. I kept coming back to your car. Absolutely love it. Congratulations. 

 8)

Dude,

Your car is awesome. The quality of the work done by either you, Steveo & Nick or anyone else involved is top notch.
Easily one of the best cars at the show, even if my opinion is a little biased.

Sorry I didn't get chance to meet you in person yesterday, will have to meet up at the cal-look drag day or another show soon.

Take it easily,
Brad

A big inspiration :)
Awesome car. The best restoration on the lounge in my eyes. 8)

Hi All,

Thank you all for your kind word, they really are appreciated, and I’m glad you like the car. :) Was great to see many of you at the Volksworld Show. :)

Well this update has been a long time in coming, but quite a bit has happened!! Firstly after a massive push, and a lot of hard work, the car is finished! :) I cannot that Nick and Stevo from Double H Restorations enough, I wouldn’t have got the car finished to such a high standard without your help. :)

Secondly, as many of you know, we took the car to the Volksworld Show. It was amazing to just be allowed to take the car there, but even more amazing that the organiser decided to put it by the front entrance. :) Had an awesome weekend at the show, and so many nice comments about the car from both friends and people I had never meet before. However I was blown away when I actually won Best of Show. :) :) :)

Anyway enough talk here’s the finished car. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2001_zpsgitkjmop.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2001_zpsgitkjmop.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2002_zpsp47zrqmi.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2002_zpsp47zrqmi.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2003_zpslnvqgbba.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2003_zpslnvqgbba.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2004_zps2rjxk5ms.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2004_zps2rjxk5ms.jpg.html)


(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2005_zpsqbraqbi5.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2005_zpsqbraqbi5.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2006_zpsvznrv6hw.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2006_zpsvznrv6hw.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2007_zpspdp7ch39.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2007_zpspdp7ch39.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2008_zpshhhlhpns.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2008_zpshhhlhpns.jpg.html)

Me and Nick from Double H Restorations (Thats Nick’s happy face! :P)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2009_zpsadtca5a2.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2009_zpsadtca5a2.jpg.html)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2010_zpsrdoamyur.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2010_zpsrdoamyur.jpg.html)

To add to the amazing weekend I had at the Volksworld Show, I also got to meet one of my hero’s, Ron Fleming! Ron is widely credited for being one of the creators of the Cal Look, and to get the seal of approval from him was the icing on the cake. :)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2011_zpsrdvusxwg.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2011_zpsrdvusxwg.jpg.html)

Well I had to get him to sign the glove box didn’t I! :D

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2012_zps7r6iu5nt.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/Volksworld%2012_zps7r6iu5nt.jpg.html)

So that’s it the finished car. :) (Well there never finished, but its together at least!). Next step is to get it to the race track. :)

The car didn’t just suddenly get finished, and there was plently in between so I'll come back later and finish the build thread for those that are interested.

Dude 8)

Your car looks stunning dude! Beautiful build  8)

Dude, that car looks better every time I see it!

The signed glovebox is cool as hell too  ;D

GREAT,
dream car 8)

Great car!  And the work you have done are perfect . Kudos

Hey Neil, Ya got me wondering about it, so I checked for the return lip on my roof . . . Bernard is correct! There is a means to catch the headliner in there, but it is just five tabs and not a full lip. One of the tabs is in your photo where you see the two spot-welds.
Now you know . . . for future reference!  ;)

Also . . . your car looks AWESOME!!!!!!  8)

AWESOME WORK JUST READ YOUR POST FROM START TO FINISH .CAR LOOK'S HOT  REALLY WELL DOCUMENTED AND FULL OF INFO , A DESERVED PRIZE , YOU MUST BE TRUELY STOKED . GOOD LUCK AT THE TRACK . INSPIRE'S ME TO FINISH MINE .
CHEER'S HARRY NEW ZEALAND

Awesome Car ! Very nice detailing ! Do you know how many hours you spent on the car ?

Cheers Ben

Thank you Harry :)

Glad you enjoyed the thread, I almost feel bad about all the hours it must have taken to read it!!  ;D

Cant wait to race it now, racing in two weeks time at VW Action. :)

Get yours done. :)

Dude  8)

Cheers Dude. :)

As for hours, it took me 7 years (ish) in total. They weren't all full days, but there was a lot of weekends and evening in there. I would even like to guess how many hours is in it!!  :o

Dude  8)

7 years ? Holy Sh.. :o
I got mine finished in 2,5 years and this was almost enough for me and my patience.But how did you said ? A car is never finished ;D

Hope to see it anytime for real on a show or on the strip.

absolute respect for your work !!

Just realised I haven’t done an update in a long time!! Maybe that's a good thing for you guys!! :D

Following the Volksworld show I was delighted to be invited to have the Car featured in Volksworld Magazine. :) Although it took a while to organise due to certain things we finally did the photoshoot in an abandoned warehouse in Weston-Super-Mare in August. Thank you to Jon from Thru-A-Lupe Photographic for a massively enjoyable photoshoot and for taking some great photos. :)
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/01_zps0iikhdgk.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/01_zps0iikhdgk.jpg.html)

Well 3 months later and the feature has finally come out in!! Not only did I get the December issue, but I also got the front cover!! :)

To say I am pleased with the feature is a massive understatement! I am over the moon happy with it! It's amazing! :) Thank you again to Jon from the amazing photos and Mike Pye for doing such a great write up.
 
(http://keyassets.timeincuk.net/inspirewp/live/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2015/10/vwdec15-300x448.png)

Now the car was always built to be raced therefore it was great to finally get it on the strip at Santa Pod at VW Action in August. Straight off the trailer on the Saturday I was running 14.4's, and managed to run these times pretty much consistently all day. However at the end of the day I discovered that the car had only been running on half throttle all day. :-s

Although it was bloody expensive I decided to enter the car for Sundays Peak Performance session, and I’m pleased I did as I ran a 13.6 at 96mph! Not only was I over the moon with the time, but it also meant that I had also final ran the times for entry into the club that I had been aiming to get into for years, The Der Kafer Rennfahrer (DKR) VW Drag Racing Club (Cars must run sub 15's). The throttle is still not full adjusted so hopefully there are quicker times to come. :)
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/02_zpsvmmd6vcr.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/02_zpsvmmd6vcr.jpg.html)

 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/03_zpsydyvjwqj.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/03_zpsydyvjwqj.jpg.html)

 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/03_zpsydyvjwqj.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/03_zpsydyvjwqj.jpg.html)

Grinning like a loon. Does it show I’m pleased to be back in the driving seat!!
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/05_zpsaksa8yhd.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/05_zpsaksa8yhd.jpg.html)

Finally got my DKR Stickers! :)
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/06_zpsf6uyxif9.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/06_zpsf6uyxif9.jpg.html)

After running a PB in the strip I thought my weekend couldn’t get any better. However, the typical British weather was showing signs of setting in, with rain looking imminent, so I thought I might as well enter the car into the show and shine. In typical ‘Dude’ style I nearly miss the cut off time for entry!

It was great to have the car in show and shine as there were some great car there. It was also nice to have a bit of a rest after a busy racing weekend! When they announced that the car had won the prestigious award of 'The most Beautiful VW in Europe' I was ecstatically happy, and still can’t quite believe it! Thank you so so much!! :)

Yes I look awful!! And again I’m smiling like a loon!
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/07_zpsa76n67c1.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/07_zpsa76n67c1.jpg.html)

So honoured to get this trophy. :)
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/08_zpsijgbuye9.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/08_zpsijgbuye9.jpg.html)

Racing at Pod I noticed a few small issues with the car (Not bad considering it had never been driven in anger before!).

Firstly I noticed that the car was squatting too much, even to the extent that it was scuffing the sump nuts! Now I know the best way to solve this would be to upgrade the torsion bars. However, the car is a street car, so I wasn't keen on making it to firm. Thus I decided to fit some 13 point protect adjustable shocks. These can be set at rock hard for the track, and turned down for on the street. They also look great!! I will keep you informed on how well these all work out.

 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/09_zpsflqu3pw0.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/09_zpsflqu3pw0.jpg.html)

 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/10_zpsemrgtbp0.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/10_zpsemrgtbp0.jpg.html)

 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/11_zpsnibfrnk0.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/11_zpsnibfrnk0.jpg.html)


Another small issue I had been meaning to fix for ages was the throttle cable routing where it comes out of the tunnel. Even as standard (see below) on a pre 67 car the throttle cables do not run through any tube. Add in a later gearbox, it actually runs on the case. I’ve even seen it cut into gearbox cases!
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/12_zps097qx48g.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/12_zps097qx48g.jpg.html)

Anyway here’s my solution.

 

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/13_zps3mef5flo.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/13_zps3mef5flo.jpg.html)
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/14_zpswojsck43.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/14_zpswojsck43.jpg.html)


Simply because I had access to some scales, I decided to weigh the car. Was very happy with the weight as it only 816.5kg overall (1800lbs exactly!) and has pretty much perfect 50:50 Left to right balance, and a nice 60:40 front to back weight. :)
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/15_zpsvnekf6d2.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/15_zpsvnekf6d2.jpg.html)

 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/16_zpsteavxoax.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/16_zpsteavxoax.jpg.html)

One final thing I have been wanting to do for ages, but have never seemed to get around to it, was to fit the personalised shifter handle which I had got in the states from Bergs during a once in a lifetime trip. Well after some issues with the line lock button, I finally got the excuse I needed to fitting it, my ‘Dudes Beetle’ shifter handle!! :D
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/17_zps0a9e0gim.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/17_zps0a9e0gim.jpg.html)

This year has been an amazing year. Not only did I get to take the car to the Volksworld Show and VW Action, as well as running some respectable times at the dragstrip, but I also got to take the car to the NEC Classic Motor Show where I was invited to display it on the Meguiars Showcase Stand.

For those that have never been to the show, it is a truly amazing show, where you can find any make or model of classic car you can think of, from priceless racecars to ‘back to the future’ Delorian’s.
There was even a copy of John Lennon’s Rolls Royce!

Here’s my car next to a stunning Capri. :)
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/18_zpscckd7d0z.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/18_zpscckd7d0z.jpg.html)

 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/19_zpsmi7th7mj.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/19_zpsmi7th7mj.jpg.html)

 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/20_zpscvo2opba.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/20_zpscvo2opba.jpg.html)

I got a really nice set of engraved glasses for attending the show.
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/21_zps5kvbmdg1.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/21_zps5kvbmdg1.jpg.html)

And here's the car that won the Meguires Showcase Stand Concourse competition. Not only was the car stunning, but the standard of detailing was amazing! A well and truly deserved win. :)
 
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/22_zpsetuuatvs.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/22_zpsetuuatvs.jpg.html)

And a random selection of the other cars that were on display throughout the show.
 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/23_zpstqbbcj3a.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/23_zpstqbbcj3a.jpg.html)

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/24_zpsxtverq0s.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/24_zpsxtverq0s.jpg.html)

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/25_zpsg8xmugcb.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/25_zpsg8xmugcb.jpg.html)

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/26_zpsalfa9tcp.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/26_zpsalfa9tcp.jpg.html)

 (http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k228/deanodynosaurs/58%20Resto/27_zpsgsnisyoq.jpg) (http://s89.photobucket.com/user/deanodynosaurs/media/58%20Resto/27_zpsgsnisyoq.jpg.html)

So that it, a update, I hope your still awake!! :D

Dude  8)

Great update Dude. Good to see you are enjoying all your hard work :)

Planning on enjoying it more next year!! More track time, less static time. :)

I'd love to squeeze a 12 out of it, but would be very happy with low 13's! :)

Dude  8)

I think a 12 is more than possible. I would be interested in how you find the rear shocks perform. They seem good value for money. I love my koni reds but they are so bloody expensive now :(
Lee

Great stuff. Well done. Built to drive. Love it.  8)

Its looking lovely, congratulations on your stash of trophies  ;D