About

This blog is dedicated to my current project - the restoration of my 1963 VW Type 1 (Beetle) Ragtop. I have learned so much from other's blogs that I thought I should post my experience for others to learn from. Feel free to leave comments and questions. I want to know what you think or if you have had the same experiences.

Starting Condition and Objectives

Overall, I like the Stock look and would like to return it to what it looked like in 1963, for the most part. I don't like the idea of turning the car into something that it wasn't originally intended to be; however, I do like some modern upgrades, such as disc brakes (currently still considering this one).

Pan

The car sat in the elements for several years with a hole in the ragtop, leaking water onto the passenger side pan. This side is completely rusted though and will be replaced.

Engine and Transmission

The original motor was scrapped decades ago. A rebuilt 1600cc dual port was put into the car and is, for the most part, still new. The transmission is original, but when attached to the 1600cc, whines quite a bit at higher speeds (55MPH+). I will be upgrading the transmission to one that can accommodate modern higher speeds with lower noise.

Interior

All of the seats are intact and still have the original seat upholstery under the seat covers (Grey Cord). All dash components are original, and will be restored. The rest of the interior will need to be replaced.

Body and Paint

Return the car to stock 1963 with original paint color (L87 Pearl White), original style white walls. The body work was nearly completed in the early 2000's, however, is in need of a rear apron, body work on the front passenger side fender and a fresh paint job.