Hey GTX, I enjoyed the Bug pics. I'm amazed at the engineering and efficiency in those cars - and the company history for Porsche and VW is awesome when you read about it. Thanks much !
Disappointed with my progress this weekend, Didn't get much done ... had to work Saturday. Installed 10 expanding cross braces. 1.5 (14 gage) square outer tube with a 1.25 (11 gage) inner tube. Outer tubes split in the middle - and welded to the chassis at both ends - and welded on either side of the middle split. Installed 4 inside the car (2 floor w 2 roof), 1 in the trunk, 2 in the front, 2 on the bottom at the axel centerlines.
Just some background on the car I thought might be fun to share. 2 owner vehicle and I have all the documentation right down to the oil changes and light bulb replacements - he even measured and recorded the brake pad wear when he replaced them. Attached the original invoice from 65. 2nd owner purchased the car in 1980 for $700 - and sent it in to a 356 shop in Florida for $8500 worth of metal replacement, sand blasting and primer. Shop labor rate was $22/hour - try that one in 2007 dollars ! (Looks pretty rough in the pics) Went into storage in 81 - until 2001 when I bought it.
This week I'll install the stabilizing bracing to tie the top/bottom and front/back of both sides so it won't twist when separated. Then I need to cut out the front suspension, cowl vent, front and rear lock receivers, and the wiper motor mount. Then I can FINALLY split it. Any ideas, guidance or comments you guys have, feel free to pass them along - never split a car before
