72 VW Beetle was killed; now replaced

[Gary - K7GLD]

At some point, we'll be looking for a good candidate for a toad - and my wife LOVES to old VW bugs! I really appreciate your experienced views on how well they work in that application - any weaknesses or mods needed, special year models that are most adaptable, etc., etc...

[dieselclacker]

If I were looking at the older VW bugs for a toad, I would look for a 1969 thru 1973 standard models,(not the super beetle). These models have the independent rear suspension system rather than the earlier swing axle system in the rear, and employ a twin beam torsion bar suspension with trailing arms on the front end. Also these models have four lug narrow spaced wheels rather than the earlier wide spaced star shaped large center hole wheels.
The above mentioned models also are powered by the 1600 cc engine with dual inlet port cylinder heads, and utilize 12 volt electrical systems.
Nothing has to be done structuraly in order to tow them. Tow bars as mentioned, are inexpensive, and electrical lighting hookup is pretty standard. Just put it in neutral and go.
I have owned several over the years, and have towed many of them for lots of miles. I also, in my other life was a certified VW mechanic.
About the only drawback I personally would have with having a bug as a towed, is the lack of a suitable air conditing unit for them, (I like a little comfort in my old age).

Dieselclacker

[Gary - K7GLD]

Quote:

Originally Posted by dieselclacker If I were looking at the older VW bugs for a toad, I would look for a 1969 thru 1973 standard models,(not the super beetle). These models have the independent rear suspension system rather than the earlier swing axle system in the rear, and employ a twin beam torsion bar suspension with trailing arms on the front end. Also these models have four lug narrow spaced wheels rather than the earlier wide spaced star shaped large center hole wheels. The above mentioned models also are powered by the 1600 cc engine with dual inlet port cylinder heads, and utilize 12 volt electrical systems. Nothing has to be done structuraly in order to tow them. Tow bars as mentioned, are inexpensive, and electrical lighting hookup is pretty standard. Just put it in neutral and go. I have owned several over the years, and have towed many of them for lots of miles. I also, in my other life was a certified VW mechanic. About the only drawback I personally would have with having a bug as a towed, is the lack of a suitable air conditing unit for them, (I like a little comfort in my old age). Dieselclacker

THANKS! That was exactly the info I wanted - will keep my eyes open for one - would consider a '10 Ford Escape to replace our '05, but too many incidents of catastrophic tranny failures for me!

[CaptChet]

I just read another similar posting about a toad being rear ended. The whole fix-it sequence is in that post. Where to find fuses for different lights, etc.
It was on here, the other winny forum or R/v net.
good luck.
That year is now an extremly valuable antique car and has a really high value!

[melvonnar]

A rock hauler went through an intersection on a red light down the road from my place the other day and took out 5 cars; they over load those trucks and they can;t get stopped. If I'm traveling and I see one following me I pull over the first chance I get to let it by.

[tmh462]

Quote:

Originally Posted by RV Wizard Congratulations, And the name of your new toad is ... ?

From the primer patches on the "hood", I'd vote for naming it "Spot"...