How to Build a Buggy: 7 Steps (With Pictures)

Many people build a Buggy by modifying a Volkswagen - it is simple, reliable and very cheap. It is very easy to find parts for this Retro Buggy and it is an ideal project for beginners. Learn to build a Buggy using a Type 1 VW.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: Method 1: Build it from scratch

Step 1. Buy a Type 1 VW Beetle

Newer styles don't perform as well as Type 1. Type 1 VW Beetles are the '70s models and you commonly find them in Arizona or Texas because VW production was in Mexico at that time.

Step 2. Acquire the spare parts

These parts can include an exhaust, tires, shocks, and springs.

• A good place to do this is at eBay Motors, as well as other stores that specialize in Buggy parts like AppleTreeAuto.com or Chirco.com.

  

Step 3. Place your VW on jacks

To avoid hurting yourself, make sure he won't fall before you get under him. It is more fun to be on top of the car than the car is on top of you.

Step 4. Disassemble the VW Bettle

Take everything apart until you are left with the essentials: the frame, the engine, the suspensions, the steering wheel, tires, brakes and some kind of seat. Everything else, remove it. Use the rest to make metal sculptures or sell the parts on eBay.

• Take off the fenders, fender, and trunk lid. Also remember that the trunk of a VW Beetle is in the front and the engine is in the back.

  

• Replace tires, suspension, and exhaust. Since this is an older vehicle, these components may not work very well. Take off the tires, if they are in good shape, use them again. Make sure to keep the lug nuts.

  

• Replace the suspension, things like springs and shock absorbers. Get bigger springs so that the Buggy is more off the ground.

  

• Remove the exhaust pipe with a saw. Make a 5-inch cut from the edge of the headboard. Install a megaphone exhaust at a 45º angle, and read the factory instructions very well.

  

• Install the new rims on your VW with the lug nuts. Get your Buggy off the cats.

  

Step 5. Paint the frame and add whatever you want

If you want to modify the engine, a Chevrolet Corvair engine is a very popular choice. This allows you to go up to 6 cylinders and creates the possibility of going up to 80 horsepower (130 kW).

Method 2 of 2: Method 2: Build it with a Kit

Step 1. Visit Google.com

There you will find Buggy kits for every taste, experience level, and pocket size.

• For example, a company called Berrien Buggy (www.berrienbuggy.com) has various body types, frames, etc., so that you can build your custom Buggy using pre-built parts.

  

• Another option would be to buy a completely pre-designed kit - all you have to do is assemble it. A company like Myers Manx (www.meyersmanx.com) is a good example of this type of kit.

  

Step 2. Buy blueprints

If you want to build from scratch, but don't want to design everything yourself, buy some plans. They are usually worth about $ 25 - $ 25 dollars (speaking of 2012). You look for the parts and components, so you could save money by searching for the best price for each specific item.

• Amazon is a great source for blueprints.

  

• Most Buggy sites have forums. Spend some time on them seeing what people are talking about - you could gather a lot of great information by seeing what people like and what they don't like about a company or product.

  

Advice

• Upgraded engines can be used if you don't like the VW's factory engine. However, the VW Type 1's engine is a great starting point for beginners.
• For best results, disassemble the VW Type 1 as much as possible until it only contains the essentials. This means that it weighs less and does not have as many things, so you can finish your Buggy faster.

Warnings

• Brake discs have asbestos dust which should not be breathed in. Wear a respirator when working on the brakes, and do not allow children in the construction area.
• If you don't know how to remove and replace the springs, have a professional do this as it can be very dangerous.