Kristen's Bug!
Building a totally cool 1974 VW Beetle

 

It's October 2005 and Kristen is almost 16 years old and has just finished the classroom part of her Driver's Ed class. So what does that mean? It means that before long she is going to have a drivers license and will be wanting to drive. Well, she ain't drivin' my truck, so I guess it's time to get her a car. But what kind?



We have talked about several choices but it always comes back to an early VW bug, so without her knowing I logged onto Ebay and found this sweet '74 bug in Tennessee for $500. A click of the "Buy It Now" button cinched the deal and a week later we were headed to Knoxville. Now it's time to strip it down and get to work. Let the fun begin!

 

 

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The original photos from the Ebay auction.

 

 

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These were taken on October 1st, shortly after Kristen found out why we went to Tennessee.

 

 

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Front and rear fenders, doors, and lids have been replaced with 1970 model units, and the vent windows have
been removed from the doors. The front has been lowered and the 40 horse motor has a few dress up items.

 

 

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It's October 15th and time to dissect a bug. First we'll strip it down and remove the body before starting the
 actual body work. As you can tell by the photo, the front has been lowered a bit already. We'll keep the
 height about the same, but will add a Euro style bumper to make it appear even lower.

 

 

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After pulling the doors, hood, hinges, and gas tank we jacked it up and pulled the front fenders. On the 
passenger side we found a small rust area that can be easily patched. No rust or damage was found when
 we pulled the rear fenders. Next we'll start pulling the interior and getting the body unbolted.

 

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