From:Asad Ishaque
To:Autobanda
(this is a copy of a reply that Asad Bhai sent to me I shall like to share it with you people)
You say it’s a 1970 1300 bug which would mean a NON super bug. Super bugs were introduced for the 1971 year model. I do get both surprised n disgusted when some worthy members say that their Super bug is of 1970 model.
This brings us to the steering issue you describe. If it’s a non super bug its easier to fix. Fro a super it’s a completely different story. Ill assume the car to be a non super. Steering play can be rectified by a simple steering box adjustment/ steering box replacement or in a worse case scenario a front suspension rebuild. Since you say you plan to run the car as a daily driver n that too on highways Id strongly recommend a full front suspension rebuild which would include all new balljoints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, steering shock absorber and shock absorbers. It would cost you a bundle (Ill have to get an estimate for all these parts or dig down in my records as I have rebuilt the front suspension of both my 68 bugs) but the rewards are a trouble free car for years to come if you get the job done right.
Id say you should throw out the Toyota steering wheel which Im sure is there along with the whole column. If people get impressed by a bloody Toyota steering wheel they should go out and buy a Toyota and not a VW. It’s a little tricky to locate a complete VW steering column with all accessories like ignition switch, indicator assembly and horn button etc but its not impossible. Further post 68 bugs had a collapsible steering column, something you see on modern cars now……..so I suggest keeping the original setup. Its your luck when you locate a good column either complete with all accessories I described if really lucky or in bits n pieces. Scrap dealers can demand anything depending on their mood.
Now the engine……..to really prove whether it’s a 1600 unit see the intake manifold…….it would have a double barrel where it enters the cylinder head. If this sounds Greek to you, simply note down the engine number n Ill confirm for you. Also see what carb the engine is running on. I doubt it would have the original carburetor as it’s a real gas guzzler…it would have a smaller 1300/1200cc one put in previously (unless the last owner owned a gas station!)
There may be truth behind the claim that the engine came with machinery from abroad. Such things do happen……quite a few amazingly good parts come along with scrap…….
There are quite a few things one could check in the engine alone. I don’t know what your level of understanding is at the moment but I could write a small book on this checking business alone. It may be best to take a mechanic or knowledgeable VW enthusiast along.
Oh btw I have yet to hear of a 5 speed VW bug gearbox so Im really doubtful about this aspect. Do let me know if the car really has one. Interesting. Ask the owner where it came from or whether it was custom made.
Well this was my honest feedback!! Sorry I could not quote exact figures as a lot depends on the prices of secondhand spares you get, what new parts you put in, what condition the car is actually in and the labor you pay to the mechanic.
