Re: [T3] new to the list

["Steven Ayres" <comwest@att.net>]

Welcome to the list, Mike.

MikeH=> What color were the original panels

Depends. In the '64-'65 period VW offered probably the broadest range of
paint and interior color options. If you have any original interior left we
can deduce from that; if that's all gone and you can find some original
paint or the paint-code plate, we can narrow the possibilities. Without
direct evidence in the car the only way to be sure is to get the build order
from VW, known here as the birth certificate.

=> How difficult is it to rebuild the engine with a used or
=> new case and using the rebuild parts from this engine.

Replacing only what's unusable is standard procedure. You may find that the
crank bearings are distorted by overtorquing and need replacing as well. As
for the difficulty of rebuilding for the newcomer, I'd recommend you get
hold of a couple of good manuals and study up before you bite into it.

You may have an added complication in the 1500S, which usually indicates
high-compression domed pistons and a few other [cool features/oddities].
Good parts for this engine can be harder to find. You may prefer to rebuild
to the more common 1600 spec.

=> I would like to attempt to keep serial numbers matching.

There's no chance of this if the case is cracked, but finding a case
numbered in the right range is possible. Not *likely*, but possible. If
you're building a car to drive rather than for point showing/bragging
rights, I'd recommend just looking for any good, solid R- or T-code case to
start. That'll be hard enough.

=> any advice

'64 was the first year for dual carbs and high compression, and you'll find
out pretty quickly if the original carbs and performance features are still
present. Plan for some learning curve in getting to know the carbs and how
they work. It's a delicate business.

Other than that my advice would be the same for any new owner of an old
car -- and this car is *old*. Plan to: redo the entire brake and suspension
systems; replace all fuel lines; polish all electrical connections; replace
transaxle oil; etc. You'll want to do all you can to bring the car back up
to factory spec so you have a firm place to stand when diagnosing the weird
little problems you'll encounter. You have a great car and you can expect a
greta driving experience from it; you may find your interest in Type 2s
waning once this car is on the road.

Again, a good manual is your most valuable tool. Unfortunately the best
manuals for this car are out of print. The Bentley is easily available and
comprehensive, and you'll want to get one, but it doesn't cover your fuel
system and some other things. The Elfrink and Clymer manuals are most
useful, and will take some effort to find. The Muir book is a great
introduction for the beginner, but don't rely on it for Type 3-specific
advice.

Good luck!

Steven Ayres, Prescott AZ
'66 KG1600

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