Re: Customize My '68?

[Toby Erkson <Toby_Erkson@ccm2.hf.intel.com>]

Sounds like you're not going for the restoration so...how big is your 
wallet? :)  Here's some stuff I'm thinking of off the top of my furry 
cranium...

Engine:  Keep the fuel injection.  If you go for a bigger engine and money 
isn't a problem get an after-market FI system for it otherwise you're stuck 
with carbs.  If you use carbs keep the size smaller than what you'd use for 
a Beetle.  40mm+ carbs are waaaayyyyy too big for a T3 unless it's totally 
decked out for racing (and if you're gonna spend THAT much money what's 
another $2000 for a FI system that will give even more power?).  The 
magical realm is in the 32mm - 36mm range.  Make sure you keep all cooling 
functions intact.  If you go with taller tires you may also want to 
*include* an external oil cooler.  Definitely get an external oil filter!  
Where you live can pose a problem if you have to worry about emission/noise 
testing.

Transaxle:  Leave the gearing alone!  Get a rhino case, hardened side 
covers, four-spyder gearing, welded hubs, the works (whatever you can 
afford).  Got bucks?  Set up your ride with Porsche 930 CV joints.  I don't 
know the procedure but it's da shi* for tough conditions like off-road.  An 
after-market shifter with a shortened throw and positive stops is a nice 
thing to have in your hand for sudden shifting.

Suspension:  A baja T3?  Can you say "UGLY!"  But if that's what you 
want...  Raising is just as easy (or difficult) as lowering, just in 
opposite directions (duh).  You'll need taller shocks unless you raise it 
only a notch or two then you can stick with stock shocks.  I, personally, 
wouldn't recommend a stiff suspension for off-road since the body will be 
taking a lot more abuse from terrain shock (deeper "potholes", steeper 
"speed bumps").  Joint wear and tear time (failure) will be increased.  Bug 
suspension components are incompatible with the T3 (with some minor 
exceptions) and in actuality you want to stay with the T3 suspension as 
it's stronger than the T1.

Wheels:  Carry a spare and jack!  Of course you'll want taller tires, just 
make sure they fit in the fenders (and trunk) after you raise the ride 
height.  Your speedometer will read slower.  You won't be jumping off the 
line quickly but your final top end will be faster.  Taller tires will 
require more hp to move so a slightly bigger engine isn't a bad idea.

Other:  You'll probably want to replace the generator with an alternator 
since improved lighting will be on your "gotta have it" list.  Tim Fink and 
someone else (sorry, forgot who) have installed alternators in their T3s.  
I'm in the process of doing the same but, hopefully, without having to do 
any metal removal like the others and the alternator I have is *smaller* 
than the stock generator (but that's all I'm gonna say for now :)

     Toby Erkson
     air_cooled_nut@pobox.com
     '72 VW Squareback 1.6L bored and stroked to 2.0L
     '75 Porsche 914 stock 1.8L for sale
     Portland, Oregon, USA

______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: Customize My '68?
Author:  type-3-errors@umich.edu at SMTPGATE
Date:    4/15/97 8:51 PM


Hey all,

          I have been pondering a thought about my type 3 squareback for some
time now and I thought to myself, who better to ask than the type 3 internet
officionado club (you guys with the tips). So in asking my question I am
looking for any and all suggestions. So go nuts.
          I recieved my SB as a gift from my parents so not much money has
gone into it yet. I have had many ideas for it though. For starters; I would
really like any tips on how to give my SB the most power possible. I have
talked to VW shops but most only know about the bugs, OF COURSE, NOTHING NEW
THERE. Anyway, I also would love to have a baja car to take on camping trips.
I know bugs make dirt cars but I love my SB. So, I need to know if there is
any way to raise my SB and maybe put dirt-worthy tires on it in orde to
handle rougher terrain. Would bus suspension work? Or would baja type 1
suspension work? Granted my SB is a tough little car right now but I would
love some more heat under the hood (or should I say behind the seat) and as
much clearance as possible.