VW Trends Magazine Vol. 1, No. 3, Fall 2021

NATIONWIDE EVENT COVERAGE!

$7.99 USA $9.99 CANADA

VOL. 1, NO. 3

FALL 2021

VWT GOES INSIDE

GABRIEL “FLUFFY” IGLESIAS’ VW MUSEUM

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staff Editor-In-Chief: Dan “DG” Leadbetter Creative Director and Odd Jobs: Ron Petro Editorial Layout: Jason Smith Advertising Sales: Bruce Simurda Social Media Guru and Street Team Leader: Larry Bohannon

CONTRIBUTORS Rich Crafton, Eric Giesert, Nate Henderson, Arthur Junior, Paul Morton, Bruce Simurda, Jason Smith, Jason Torchinsky, George Trosley, and David Zelma

STA PUBLISHING Publishers: Dan Leadbetter and Rich Crafton Chief Financial Officer: Beckyjo Ohlendorf Subscription info: vwtrendsmagazine.com VW Trends Magazine ISSN APPL100001111, USPS MID 903010850 is published whenever we get around to it (but for now, we get around to it quarterly) by STA Publishing, LLC, 4533 MacArthur Blvd. Suite 5208, Newport Beach, CA, 92660. Reprinting in whole or in part is expressly forbidden except with written permission from the publisher.

Copyright ©2021, STA Publishing, LLC. Periodical postage paid in Newport Beach, California and at additional mailing offices.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: A minimum of six weeks’ notice is required for change of address and you must provide STA Publishing with old and new address. Send all change of address info to: STA Publishing, Attn: VWT CHANGE OF ADDRESS, 4533 MacArthur Blvd. Suite 5208, Newport Beach, CA, 92660. Or change your address via email to info@vwtrendsmagazine.com.

POSTMASTER SEND CHANGE OF ADDRESS TO: STA Publishing, Attn: VWT CHANGE OF ADDRESS, 4533 MacArthur Blvd. Suite 5208, Newport Beach, CA, 92660 SUBSCRIPTIONS: U.S. and U.S. Possessions $29.99 for one year (4 issues) ADVERTISING: Please direct all ad inquiries to bruce@ vwtrendsmagazine.com or STA Publishing, 4533 MacArthur Blvd. Suite 5208, Newport Beach, CA, 92660. You know you want to advertise with VW Trends Magazine. We’re not too proud to beg, people.

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS are welcome but not guaranteed unless by express written approval of VW Trends Magazine staff. Photographs and/or articles must include signed photo and property releases from the writer, photographer, vehicle owner, property owner, and any recognizable people. STA Publishing is not responsible for the return of manuscripts or photographs.

Or screenplays, for that matter. Do you know how many of those I have to read on a weekly basis? “Oh Dan, this role is perfect for you!” or “This one is your big breakthrough movie!” Look people, I’m old. I’m guessing the last of my 15 minutes of fame will be used up on the back of a milk carton in Mississippi somewhere.

DISTRIBUTION: Want to distribute VW Trends Magazine at your place of business? Let VW Trends stick their nose into your business! Send your inquiries to info@ vwtrendsmagazine.com to see how you can sell VW Trends Magazine, and actually make some money!

VW is a registered trademark of Volkswagenwerk AG. VW Trends Magazine is no way affiliated with Volkswagen.

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VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

FALL 2021 • VOL . 1 NO. 3

24

DEPARTMENTS 4 TOP DEAD CENTER: I like big Bus, and I cannot lie.

5 WHAT’S NEW: The latest loot and where to get it.

8 WHAT YEAR IS IT? A deep dive into the 1971 Beetle.

38 GARAGE BUILT: Each issue we feature another DIY-er.

40 PETRO’S PAGES: Run for your life!

56 TOYS IN THE ATTIC: A well-traveled Bus. 66 HISTORY LESSON: The weirdest little VW truck you’ve never seen.

74 INTERVIEW: Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias.

58

77 READERS’ RIDES: A ’55 Oval, a ’59 ragtop, and a Baja Ghia.

78 COMING EVENTS: A coast-to-coast list.

80 TROSLEY: VW Friends.

FEATURES 6 PILE OF THE MONTH: Type II Travesty.

14 HIS N’ HERS: When one Bus per couple just won’t do.

24 FLIPPIN’ AWESOME: One rusty wreck and a whole lotta hustle.

32 HE IS... FLUFFY MAN! Gabriel Iglesias and his extraordinary museum.

58 WASCALLY WABBIT: This engine swap should make it hop.

68

68 HARDCORE HALF-PINT: Stepside short Bus or life-sized Hot Wheels?

EVENTS 10 REMEMBER THE ROLLOUT: A VW weekend, Texas-style.

20 THE TREFFEN TRIFECTA: Three SoCal events in three days.

28 JUNE BUG CLASSIC: A scorcher of a show in Pennsylvania.

42 FINALLY, A FLING! A Fresno festival full of fun.

52 BUGORAMA #86: Sacramento’s longtime showpiece event.

TECHNICAL 46 UNHINGED! Everything you wanted to know about fixing Bus door hinges.

72 SPHERICAL SOLUTION: Improve dual-carb control with this easy mod.

On the cover: The one, the only Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias at his Bus Museum. Photo by Rich Crafton.

38

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PHOTO: BEN NEWHARD

62 ONE CRAZY WEEKEND: Let’s talk Vegas, poker, and Dubs.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

3

TOP DEAD CENTER I LIKE BIG BUS, AND I CANNOT LIE

F

irst off, apologies to Sir Mix-A-Lot. But it’s true: I’ve always been drawn to service vehicles, fire trucks, station wagons, vans… you get the idea.

And I’ve wanted a hearse for the LONGEST time. I thought I’d grow out of it, but well, THAT didn’t happen.

To be completely honest, I’ve never owned a Type II. But man, I sure have enjoyed seeing really cool bone-stock and tricked-out Busses, Single and Double Cabs, Transporters, Panels, and everything in between. When I moved from Northern to Southern California after college, VW Busses were everywhere. Some people really turned them into showpieces.

Both of my best friends had Busses — later models, but VW Busses nonetheless. They were super-practical, because you could pile just about everything and everyone you knew in one and hit the road!

I always liked the sliding side door, and the thick “chunk” sound it made when closing.

Plus, like every other Volkswagen, the engine was incredibly easy to work on.

When I got the gig at VW Trends in the mid-80s, Type IIs were not really the preferred VW to customize. That’s what made one all done up to

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VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

the 10s such a sight to behold. There were crane Busses, car hauler Busses, “stubby” Busses (yeah, I REALLY want one of those for my VW Trends staff car), limo Busses, super-clean street Busses, drag Busses, and everything in between. Huge monster motors and ultra-clean interiors were the order of the day, and still are, as you’ll see from some of the Type IIs in this issue.

If you’ve been looking online, on TV, or reading anything VW related, you’ll undoubtedly know that Type II Busses, Trucks, and Transporters are commanding CRAZY high dollars. I saw one selling at Barrett-Jackson for low-to-mid six figures.

Go to any VW car show or swap meet, and you’ll see beat-up Busses that would have sold for $800 back in the 80s going for upwards of $20,000. It’s crazy, I tell you. Will it last? You’re asking the wrong guy. Much like Bitcoin and other crypto currency, Bus values will do one of two things: continue to grow until the bubble bursts, or level off, and maybe another VW will become the “it” car. Either way, I still really want a Bus. We’ve got a great magazine for you this go-round. It’s jam-packed with a bevy of Busses from all over the country! Plus we’ve got a ton of event coverage from all

ILLUSTRATIONS: RON PETRO

over the map. So what could make it better? How about a major look into Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias’ VW Bus Museum/compound? Gabriel was kind enough to give us the grand tour as well as sit down and do an exclusive interview with us. Are you enjoying the VW Friends cartoon from longtime VW Trends friend George Trosley?

We sure are, and we’re glad to have George back in the fold with his amazing talents.

I hope you enjoy all the cool Type IIs we’ve got for you inside this issue. Don’t worry, there’s still a good mix of other VWs in here too. All of us at VW Trends are having a blast putting this magazine together for you, and can’t wait to hear your feedback.

Please drop any comments, constructive criticisms, bad jokes, or anything else to my personal email at the end of this editorial.

Oh, and if any of you have a line on a really sweet VW Bus hearse (the one with the big side windows, as VWT’s Ron Petro illustrated here), or a decent stubby Bus for a decent price, feel free to drop me a line!

— Dan Leadbetter Publisher and Editor-in-Chief dan@vwtrendsmagazine.com

WHAT’S NEW

RANCHO V-GATE NOSE CONE: Rancho’s Fast Fab Verigate is a nose cone V-Gate shifting mechanism which converts the traditional “H” shift pattern to a straight-up-and-back layout. Machined from solid billet and pre-fit with HP seals, the FAST FAB nose cones are anodized in clear or black with applications for both VW Type 1 and Mendeola 2D transaxles. Each kit ships complete with all installation hardware and retails for just $295.00. Note: Disassembly is required in order to drill and tap the shift rails.

Requires use of a vertical gate shift linkage. Call your order direct to Rancho at 714-680-6737 or check out their Super Store online at www.ranchotransaxles.com.

ERIC ARNOLD’S 2022 CALENDARS: Now available: Eric’s 2022 Volkswagen calendar features all varieties of VWs, and his Thing calendar features, well, Things. They’re perfect for your home or office, and make great gifts too. Just $25 each with free shipping.

Get yours today at ericarnoldphotography.com/store.

VW HISTORY TO HOBBY BOOK: Longtime VW fanatic Bob Cropsey has published his fourth (and final?) book, Volkswagen Complete: Volkswagen History to Hobby. This 425-page hardcover book has everything you’ve ever wanted to know about your favorite people’s car. With 340 photos and sections like VW Timeline, The Complete VW History, and Herbie: The Love Bug, this is no stuffy service manual! Plus, it features illustrations and cartoons from VW Trends magazine’s own art director, Ron Petro, and “VW Friends” cartoonist George Trosley! To order, go to www.vwhistorytohobby.com.

McQUEEN MANX: Meyers Manx, LLC displayed some of their vehicles at the annual Friends of Steve McQueen Car Show in Chino Hills, California.

The event was hosted by the Boys Republic — a non-profit private school and treatment facility for troubled youth founded in 1907, of which McQueen was a 1946 alumnus. McQueen and Manx dune buggies have a long history: Besides owning Manx buggies himself, McQueen raced one over beach dunes in his 1968 film The Thomas Crown Affair. (That same orange Corvair-powered buggy recently sold at auction for $456,000). Besides being in a car show setting, Manx cars were also demonstrating what they can do — namely charging up a dirt hill and launching skyward, which thrilled onlookers.

VW TRENDS LOGO PATCH: The perfect addition to your work shirt, beanie, or denim jacket, this full-color borderless embroidered patch features a unique micro-thread embroidery technique that really makes the VW Trends logo pop. Best of all, it’s only $6 with free shipping! It’s perfect for formal or casual wear. Get yours today at vwtrendsmagazine.com.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

5

PILE OF THE MONTH TYPE II TRAVESTY

By DG Leadbetter

Y

ou know those times when you see a VW and it just brings a smile to your face? I mean that sense of nostalgia and good times just radiates from the sight of a really awesome Volkswagen, reminding you when times were simpler and more fun.

That feeling, so powerful, that you can’t help but get a silly grin all over your face?

Yeah, I know, this isn’t one of those times.

This Type II’s owner, Joel Martinez, traded up to get this Bus. You know, you start with a paperclip and end up with a house in the Hamptons? Well, this kind of went like that. You see, Joel started out with a CB radio and some off-road lights and traded his way up to this burned-out 1967 13-window Deluxe four or five years

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VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

ago. Now with the crazy prices Type IIs are fetching these days, you’d think this was an AMAZING deal. Yeah, you’d think that.

As you can see in the photos, the Bus has an amazing two-tone exterior treatment called As you can “Fire Damage see in the and Turquoise.” photos, this It should be noted Bus has an that there are mulamazing twotiple dents throughtone exterior out the exterior. treatment This is the next called “Fire evolution of the PaDamage and tina Look, friends.

Turquoise.”

What shall we call it? DENTina? I dunno, I’m just spitballing here, people. The goal is to have as many dents as you can in each panel before it starts looking like a crushed soda can

headed to the recycle bin. Mission accomplished! Well done, Joel!

“After a few years of gathering the necessary parts I finally had enough to piece it together,” Joel says. “The goal was to have it ready for Buses by the Bridge 2019, so two weeks before the event, I started slapping it together every night after work.”

Editor’s note: I’m thinking the Bus wasn’t the one that needed slapping.

Anyway, back to Joel: “I installed a new wiring harness, all new brakes, three pieces of glass and a kitchen chair. We loaded up the bus and set out on the maiden

Interior mods include a rope-reinforced steering wheel and passenger OMG bar, Moon Barefoot gas pedal, and a couple of aftermarket gauges.

voyage. Since then it’s been driven all over.”

I’m sure most of you probably glossed over the fact that Joel installed a kitchen chair in the passenger side of his Bus. It took some work, but he was able to custom fabricate a wooden mount for it. You know those Pinterest posts about turning a wooden pallet into an outdoor couch? Yeah, this is nothing like that. Now a broken kitchen chair by itself would be a very tacky passenger seat. So Joel decided to dress it up by putting an old T-shirt over the back. The driver’s seat is … um … well, let’s just say it’s covered in a gray/black serape blanket. Other interior upgrades include a Moon Barefoot gas pedal, rope-enhanced steering wheel, gold dash clock, and a piece of artificial grass between the seats.

Now we all know you can’t have a VW without a motor. So Joel added a 1600cc powerplant with two-tone engine tin. For extra get-up-and-go — Editor’s note: sadly, it looks like this Bus already got up and went — Joel added a power pulley and oil filler extender. With all the performance extras, this Bus can proudly do 0-60 in 3.5 hours!

We let Bosco the Newly Undead Wonder Dog take a look at this majestic pile, and he promptly burst into flames, leaving behind a small pile of ashes. Since we’ve never had that happen before, we can only assume this is a 5-hairball pile! Or maybe we should call this new rating an ash pile! That’s not too shabby for a burned-out husk of a Bus. Got a VW that would be a worthy contender for Pile of the Month? Send several high-res images (at least 2MB each) to dan@vwtrendsmagazine.com. Who knows? Your (ahem) vehicle might have the dubious distinction of being a real pile!

Joel’s Bus has a kitchen chair for a passenger seat. Honestly, we’re kind of surprised the kitchen sink isn’t also in here.

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Powering this Pile is a 1600cc motor.

Note the power pulley and oil-filler neck extender. The two-tone tin really sets this engine apart … We’re pretty sure this engine will be apart soon enough.

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7

1971 WHAT YEAR IS IT?

T

he year 1971 was a high-water mark for Volkswagen, specifically for the Beetle.

VW was building Beetles all over the globe, and the company sold more of them that year than it ever had — or ever would again.

The brand-new Super Beetle (marketed outside the U.S. as the 1302) wowed buyers with such luxuries as 43% more luggage capacity and a MacPherson strut front ▲ Press photo of a ’71 U.S.-market Super Beetle. Note the side-mounted tail light reflectors. suspension. In this inaugural What Year Is It? column, we’re taking a deep dive into all Motor Trend were doing head-to-head comthings ’71 Beetle. parisons of the Beetle and imports like the But first, let’s set the scene: In 1971, Toyota Corolla, and the Beetle was coming hundreds of thousands of people marched up short. The imports had upped their to protest the Vietnam War. A build quality, they had more television show called All in the VW sold more standard features than the BeeFamily debuted. Charles ManBeetles in 1971 tle and largely outperformed it, son and three members of his than it ever and they were cheaper. VW had “family” were found guilty of had — or ever its Rabbit project in developmurder. Both Apollo 14 and 15 would again. ment, but the company couldn’t landed on the moon and came The brand-new afford to wait. The Beetle would back to Earth. Led Zeppelin IV Super Beetle get an upgrade. came out. Evel Knievel jumped wowed buyers The first Super Beetle 19 cars in California; Frazier with such rolled off the line at the Emden beat Ali. The 26th Amendment luxuries as 43% factory in August 1970. It lowered the U.S. voting age to more luggage was an instant hit — VW sold 18. NPR hit the airwaves for capacity and almost 884,000 Supers for the first time; Richard Nixon a MacPherson that model year, accounting declared war on drugs. The Eastrut front for about 68 percent of all the gles formed and The Monkees suspension. ’71 Beetles sold. In fact, more called it quits. Disney World ’71 Supers were sold than were opened in Orlando. John Lennon released Beetles from any single year from 1949 Imagine, the Allman Brothers gave us At to 1963. The new front suspension made Fillmore East, and the Stones had Sticky the car handle more like a contemporary Fingers. The Soviets landed an unmanned vehicle and less like a farm implement. craft on Mars. A man calling himself D.B. Buyers appreciated the added luggage space Cooper made off with $200,000 in history’s and the other little refinements. only unsolved skyjacking case.

VW also lured buyers with special Heady days, maybe. But Volkswagen edition ’71 Beetles. They included a Super VWOA was worried, and had been for some time: Vee edition, which was a dealer-installed Other car manufacturers, notably in Japan accessory package with Lemmerz Sprint1971 was a milestone year, too, as the 14 and in the United States, had Volkswagen star wheels, sporty-looking decals, driving millionth Beetle — a Super, as it happens — and the Beetle squarely in their crosshairs. lamps, and a few other touches; and an rolled off the line at Wolfsburg in May. They had learned to build cars with all of ultra-rare Pop Bug, which featured paint If you have a ’71 Beetle, you’re in good the Beetle’s best features, and then some. in either Pop Lilac, Beat Blue, or Hippie company, or maybe we should just say Car magazines like Road & Track and Green. you’ve got a lot of company.

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VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

COURTESY OF THE SAMBA/ ALBERT HEILES

The Beetle’s biggest year • by Jason Smith

L41 BLACK

L90D PASTEL WHITE

DEBUT YEAR. USED 1970–73

L50D SAPPHIRE BLUE

USED ONLY IN 1971

1971: 1.29M BUILT

N ’71 B LLIO EE T MI

S: LE

1.2 9

USED ALL YEARS, 1949–79

BEETLE PRODUCTION, 1949–79

1.8+6830.2

1971 PAINT COLORS

SUPER BEETLES

SEDANS

CABRIOLETS

’79

L96E GEMINI BLUE

DEBUT YEAR USED 1971–72

’49 L54D MARINA BLUE

DEBUT YEAR USED 1971–74

PRODUCTION FOR 1971

MODIFICATIONS FOR 1971

TOTAL NUMBER BUILT: 1,291,612  6% of total Beetle production, 1931– 2004. Highest production year ever.

SUPER BEETLE:  Front suspension now uses MacPherson struts.  Front brakes are larger.  Jack is moved to under the rear seat.  Windshield washer bottle is moved to right inner fender.  Luggage space in front compartment is increased; spare tire lies flat.  Fuel tank is larger.  Two-speed fresh air blower is introduced.

L66B DEEP SEA GREEN FINAL YEAR USED 1970–71

L60B ELM GREEN FINAL YEAR USED 1970–71

L96D SILVER

DEBUT YEAR SUPER ONLY IN 1971 USED 1971–72

L97D COLORADO RED

DEBUT YEAR USED 1971–72

L31F IBERIAN RED USED ONLY IN 1971

L20D CLEMENTINE ORANGE

FINAL YEAR. USED 1970–71

L91D KANSAS BEIGE

DEBUT YEAR SUPER ONLY IN 1971 USED 1971–73

L12D SHANTUNG GOLD YELLOW USED ONLY IN 1971

L11E LEMON YELLOW USED ONLY IN 1971

1971 CHASSIS NUMBERS SEDAN: 111 2000 001 to 111 3143 118 CABRIOLET: 151 2000 001 to 151 3200 000

CABRIOLETS BUILT: 24,273  0.11% of total Beetle production, 1931–2004  1.9% of ’71 Beetle production SUPER BEETLES BUILT: 883,847  First year for Super Beetle  68% of ’71 Beetle production NUMBER BUILT IN GERMANY: 1,029,489  79.7% of ’71 Beetle production  All Cabriolets were built in Germany  262,123 Beetles were built outside Germany ’71 BEETLES WERE BUILT IN:  Wolfsburg, Osnabrück, and Emden, Germany  Auckland, New Zealand  Brussels, Belgium  Costa Rica  Dublin, Ireland  Manila, Philippines  Melbourne, Australia  Montevideo, Uruguay  Peru  Portugal  Puebla, Mexico  São Bernardo do Campo, Brazil  Shah Alam, Malaysia  Singapore  Uitenhage, South Africa  Valencia, Venezuela

ALL BEETLES:  Horsepower is increased from 57 to 60.  Tail lights are larger (and have sidemounted reflector in U.S.)  Deck lid is larger with two banks of five louvers.  New flow-through air system with ports behind rear side windows.  Headlights go off and parking lights stay on when ignition is turned off.  Steering wheel is recessed for safety.  1600 engine with dual-port heads, three-part intake manifold, and chrome exhaust-valve stems.  Distributor is now a combination vacuum/centrifugal advance.  Fuel tank fumes are now routed through an activated charcoal filter.  Carburetor is now a Solex 34 PICT-3.  Offset oil cooler (doghouse style) for better cooling of number 3 cylinder.  Clutch throw-out assembly and bearing are redesigned (late 1971).  Oil pump is larger (late 1971).  Wiring harness is added for VW Computer Analysis System.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

9

REMEMBER THE ROLLOUT A weekend-long VW event just down the street from the Alamo

Story and photography by Paul Morton

D

eep in the heart of Texas, around August every year since 2012, there’s a three-day Volkswagen extravaganza in San Antonio — the VW Rollout presented

by La Bomba 64 Productions. The place to be is Traders Village, which is around 20 minutes from downtown. No doubt a weekend hot spot for the locals, Traders Village is made up of numerous small businesses that offer a variety of wares and food. What drew us in were the large covered areas (a must during summer in Texas) where the Rollout is held. This year’s event took place August 13–15 and was a weekend-long party the whole family could enjoy. VW enthusiasts from all over Texas and beyond gathered to partake in the festivities.

It all started Friday evening with kickoff party where anyone who rolled in early for the event could get the lay of the land or set up their booth or swap space. The party started with DJ Andrew Tejeda on the wheels of steel. It was good times with good people and exceptional tacos that AlFred Ramos and his crew made up special for all us early birds.

10 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

Daniel Hernandez and Alan Silva with show coordinator AlFred Ramos (center). This trio, along with Katya Hernandez and Ernest Hughes, made some of the best tacos we’ve ever had — and all the VWT staffers are taco aficionados.

Saturday is when the real action started to heat up. There were VWs galore, both air and water-cooled. On top of that, the show area was surrounded by VW vendors. You needed parts?

They had parts. To keep the party vibe going, Top Shelf provided live music.

Showgoers who came for the VWs could wander Traders Village to check out all the stores or grab something to eat.

And the Traders Village regulars could wander the show, so the event was always packed with people. Through the day the VW Rollout crew sold raffle tickets for numerous items. There was A LOT

of stuff given away, including a complete VW engine valued at over $2,600!

A full day of car-show fun just wasn’t enough, so the Rollout crew also planned a dinner cruise — did we mention this was an extravaganza? Saturday just before dusk, a long line of VWs gathered to make their way toward downtown San Antonio to have dinner at the historic Pig Stand, which was established in 1921 and claims to be the world’s first drive-in.

We can neither confirm nor deny this; we will however say it is a cool spot with great food worth checking out.

On Sunday everyone rolled out to go home, right? WRONG! It was another full show day, when the actual judging took place. Sunday was just as packed with show cars and vendors as Saturday—maybe more so. Throughout the day Jorge Garcia, Clarissa Ramos, and AlFred Ramos Jr. announced raffle prize winners, and toward the end of the day they awarded trophies to the show winners. All in all it was a great weekend with plenty of fun to be had for volks of all ages.

TOP WINNERS: Best water-cooled: Cesar Rivas Best Oval: Paul Smith Best of Show: Salvador Ramos

This Bus was stunning inside and out.

Check out the extra long doors on either side. Were these original at some point? Nope, full custom and ultra clean, as is the rest of the Bus.

Gracie Chapa, Clarissa Ramos and Salina Rose spent all weekend registering vehicles, selling raffle tickets, and generally keeping everyone in line. It took a lot of people to make the Rollout happen, including David Moreno, Freddy Washington, and AlFred Ramos Jr.

When we shot Cesar Rivas’ ’82 Rabbit pickup on Friday we had no idea it would win best water-cooled, but then we aren’t surprised considering it’s packing a 2004 GTI 2.8L VR6! But wait: There’s more, starting on page 58.

If you’re as old as the VWT staff (best of luck with that, BTW), this Baja will take you back to the early ‘70s. Love the slotted mag wheels, earth-tone racing stripes, and the boom box on the roof!

AlFred asked us to pick the Best of Show winner and, honestly, it was a little nerve wracking. Plenty of vehicles deserved the trophy. In the end we went with Sal Ramos’ sano ‘62 ‘Vert. Every single inch of this vehicle had been attended to, including the undercarriage. Plus there was that full display setup. Sal really went all out and deserved the win!

A nice batch of Ghias were on hand to show off their Italian design and handbuilt German bodywork.

Got parts? Yes, the swap vendors brought the goods! And all types of collectibles and antiques were on offer at other booths surrounding the show car area. Beyond that were the small businesses that make up Traders Village. Bottom line, if you go out to the Rollout, break some dough out!

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 11

Saturday evening a large group gathered for a cruise to the historic Pig Stand diner in downtown San Antonio. It’s a great local spot to eat, and its right next to the old Pearl factory that is now home to all types of shops and restaurants. While you’re there, consider checking out the River Walk, and be sure to remember the Alamo.

Leslie and Matt Bentley are hardcore VW enthusiasts with his-and-hers Busses. They drove them all the way up from Corpus Christi, pulling a vintage, hail-damaged trailer dubbed Hail Marry (yes, they actually camp in it).

There’s more where this came from starting on page 14.

Cyndi and Kasey are another Bus couple from Corpus Christi. Their ultraclean ’59 grabbed our attention with its black and green color scheme, and kept it with clean details from bumper to bumper.

David Blades of Crockett, Texas brought out his extremely modified ’57 Oval complete with chopped top, widened fenders, upsized alloys and much more — there are really too many mods to list!

You never know what might roll into the Rollout. How about a lifted ragtop Oval-window Bug towing a vintage trailer full of old-school BMX and freestyle bikes?

12 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

Who says there aren’t any affordable Busses out there? Okay, this was just a joke played on event coordinator AlFred Ramos. That’s his Bus. No, it’s not for sale.

Plenty of clean water-cooled VWs came out to show off what they got. This definitely seems to be a growing segment in what used to be predominantly air-cooled events.

The band Top Shelf did a great job of keeping the party going Saturday and Sunday. In front of the stage are the trophies — yes, the first-place trophies were actually coolers! Great idea to offer up a trophy you can carry around and use. Second- and third-place winners got awesome metal trophies.

Tim Briles’ impeccable green Thing from 1974.

Ike Right didn’t get it wrong (see what we did there?) with this ’64 camper.

It looks like tons of fun, and you just don’t see many of these around anymore.

This nice pair of ’84 Westy Vanagons were hanging out together. The orange one belongs to Raul Madina of San Antonio; the brown one is owned

by Frank Puffer of Montgomery.

ROLLOUT SPONSORS: Traders Village Ancira VW of San Antonio VolksAmerica VW Magazine VW Trends Magazine

We had a blast at this Texas-sized weekend shindig. We’re already marking our calendars for next year: You can bet we won’t forget the Rollout.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 13

There’s nothing odd about this couple

By VWT staff • Photography by Paul Morton

14 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 15

M

att Bentley grew up watching his father race a Bug. “My pops Terry Bentley ran VWs at Corpus Christi Speedway back in the late ’80s and early ’90s,” he says. “We had a shop I grew up in after school. In high school all my friends had hot rods, but I wanted an air-cooled Bug. Pops bought me a red stock ’64 Beetle. I can still remember sitting with my VW magazines dreaming of what size engine I wanted, or what wheels and beam combo. I’m now 38 and that hasn’t changed.”

Leslie Elps also wanted a Bug back in high school, but her parents said Beetles weren’t safe. So she got her fix by riding around in her friend Sarah’s ’68 Bug. Fast forward a few years. After Matt and Leslie graduated high school, they started dating. Matt still owned his Bug, and showed it all around Texas. So Leslie got the itch again to own a Bug. In 2005 she reached out to her old friend Sarah’s parents and bought the very same Bug she used to ride around in during high school.

From 2005 to 2007 Matt and Leslie restored that car and began taking it to shows around Texas. They even brought home trophies from the Las Vegas Bug-In and the Elite & Just Clean car show.

16 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

 Matt built his own 2110cc engine. It features a pair of 40mm Dellorto carbs, Magnaspark ignition, and a Setrab oil cooler with 30mm full-flow pump.

 The stock vinyl upholstery was stitched up by Jeff Bell of Corpus Christi, Texas.

 Matt built a 1679cc to power Leslie’s Bus. It features 40mm Kadron carbs, Magnaspark ignition, a 69mm crank, AA 88mm pistons, and Engle VZ14 cam, and Panchito heads.

 David’s Upholstery of Corpus Christi put together this double-diamond stitched bench.

The Bug scene was great, but they were getting the itch to own a Bus. One day in 2006 Matt saw a Ghia for sale on Aircoolers.org. The seller mentioned in the bottom line of his ad, “I might also sell my DC.” Matt instantly sent him a message and asked “DC — Do you mean Double Cab?” The next thing they knew, they were driving to San Antonio to buy a ’65 Double Cab that they knew nothing about and had only a few pictures of. They trailered it home, got it running and drove it for years as it was. They took it to the beach, let their friends borrow it, and generally treated it like a truck.

Then they decided it was time to take care of the rust that seemed to be popping up everywhere. Matt and his dad started the restoration in their own shop, but after a year or so they realized they needed some help. So the Double Cab went to Ronnie at Bustoration in Lake Havasu City, Arizona.

After five years in Arizona it came home as a painted roller (per Matt and Leslie’s request) and the couple did the final assembly themselves.

The ten-year build ended in 2020. They trailered the Bus to Mustang, Oklahoma, to the Old Volks Show, where they took home Best of Show out of roughly 300 rides.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 17

the build sPECS

EXTERIOR: Bodywork and paint (IVAT single-stage in L380 Turquoise) by Ronnie Feitelson at Bustoration in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Hoops by Derek Gregg and canvas by Tom Buese at Busware, Salt Lake City, UT. CHASSIS: Front suspension work by Terry Bentley of Corpus Christi, TX (complete teardown, blasting, and painting, with all new parts and bushings). OEM 15" wheels. Tires: BF Goodrich Mud Terrain 215/75/15 front and rear. Wilwood disc brakes. KYB shocks front and rear. Stock rear suspension.

ENGINE: 2110cc Type 1 built by Matt Bentley. AS41 case. 82mm DPR crank, 5.4" H-beam rods, AA 90.5mm pistons, Norris 330s camshaft. Panchito heads with 35.5 x 40 stainless valves. Setrab oil cooler, 30mm full-flow pump. 40mm Dellorto carbs, Magnaspark ignition, A1 Sidewinder exhaust.

TRANSAXLE: 1963 VW Type 2 built by Rancho with ’63 one-ton boxes.

INTERIOR: Stock in light and dark gray vinyl. Upholstery by Jeff Bell of Corpus Christi. Retrosounds stereo with DB Drive amplifier (2,500 watts) and speakers.

18 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

 Road trip! This 1953 Fleetwood Model 10 camper looks like a cozy place to bed down.

A few years ago Leslie saw that someone was selling flowers out of the back of a Single Cab Bus at a farmer’s market. She had the idea of using Matt’s Double Cab as a flower truck, but after all the hard work they put into completing it, she didn’t want to take the chance of messing it up. So after owning her ’68 Bug for 16 years (and winning all kinds of trophies, including Best

Of Show) she decided to sell it and buy her own VW truck. She reached out to Ronnie at Bustoration to ask if he knew of anyone selling a Single Cab, and sure enough he had a lead. Leslie bought the ’58 Single Cab the same week that she sold her Bug. Once they got the Single Cab home the fun started all over again. Because it hadn’t been long since they had finished Matt’s Bus,

the build sPECS

EXTERIOR: Bodywork and paint (in L87 Pearl White) by Fenton’s Speed Shop, Ingleside, TX. Hoops by Derek Gregg and canvas by Tom Buese at Busware, Salt Lake City, UT. Flower rack built by Kevin Repka (rack tilts outward via electric motor). Lettering by Gulf Coast Graphics of Corpus Christi.

CHASSIS: WagensWest adjustable beam with drop spindles. 15" Beetle wheels.

Tires: Continental 145/65/15 front, 185/65/15 rear. KYB shocks front and rear.

 Leslie’s flower rack tilts outward so customers can get a better look at the goods.

everything was still fresh in their minds.

After just four months the flower truck was complete and ready to hit the streets.

Matt and Leslie have owned several other Bugs and Busses over the seventeen years they have been together. They were celebrating their one-year wedding anniversary the day we were putting this story together. They currently have two other

Busses, and they love to travel in them from coast to coast attending VW shows.

You can follow Leslie’s truck and events on Facebook and Instagram @BentleysFlowerTruck. Follow Matt and Leslie’s adventures on Instagram by searching for #TexasRoadKings.

ENGINE: 1679cc Type 1 built by Matt Bentley. AS41 case. 69mm crank, AA 88mm pistons, Engle VZ14 camshaft.

Panchito heads with 35.5 x 40 stainless valves. Lightened flywheel. 40mm Kadron carbs, Magnaspark ignition, Vintage Speed Extreme Lowered exhaust.

TRANSAXLE: 1968 VW Type 1 Pro Street Freeway Flyer by Rancho.

INTERIOR: Gray vinyl with double diamond stitching by David’s Upholstery of Corpus Christi. Speedhut GPS Bus speedometer.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 19

THE TREFFEN

TRIFECTA

Three events in three days • Story and photography by Eric Geisert

G

arden Grove, located in the middle of Orange County in Southern California, is a car-friendly city that closes off its historic downtown Main Street every Friday night, 52 weeks a year, to allow for a drive-up car show. They’ve been doing it since the early 90s. Sometimes local VW clubs are involved, such as Rare Vintage Air, who hosted the Friday evening before the Treffen. It’s a pretty loose show: Anyone with an old car can attend; there’s no pre-registration; and it’s a great way to spend a late afternoon before hitting the other Treffen-oriented events in the following days.

Jason Weiler’s RossWulf Ghia won the cruise’s Best Custom and Best Stance awards; the next day, it won Best Rallye Car at Speedwell.

The city of Garden Grove closes off Main Street every Friday night for a car show.

Two nights before the Treffen, VWs take over. This year’s cruise-in show was hosted by the Rare Vintage Air club.

A nose-down rake and a set of Porsche Fuchs wheels dress this Thing up nicely.

 No matter how many cruises you go to, you won’t see too many Hebmüllers and Split-window Beetles just hangin’ out.  Fire gave this Thing its patina, and the bomber-style seats are a unique addition.

20 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

T

he Speedwell Rallye has been a fun facet of the Treffen Trifecta for a number of years now, and offers attendees a navigational route of about 60 miles over hill and dale and through the eastern canyons of Orange County. This year participants began in the wee hours of Saturday morning at the Wolfsburg West parking lot in Corona, California, and followed a route sheet with directions on how to get to various checkpoints. This year’s finish line was at the end of a unique business complex cul-de-sac in Orange, California, that happens to be populated with vintage Volkswagen repair shops that include Washburn’s Metal, Roth Vintage Aircooled, and Eddy and Dave’s Garage. It’s a great opportunity to visit these shops’ open houses, especially if you aren’t from the area.

 The parking lot of Wolfsburg West in Corona, California, was the starting point of the 60-mile Speedwell Rallye.

Speedwell provided each entrant with a numbered and stamped Rallye plate. Some sported multiple plates from previous rallyes.

 Washburn’s Metal in Orange, California, was one of the shops at the end of the rallye that threw open their doors for an open house.

They do metal fabrication and pan restoration on early VWs and Porsches.

At the Speedwell Rallye you’ll see all levels of restoration and customization. Martin Kircher (black ’57 sedan in the background) won the rallye this year.

The street in front of the VW shops at the end of the rallye filled up quick. Hot Dog Fred was also on hand to grill up some brats and dogs for attendees.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 21

THE TREFFEN

TRIFECTA F

or more than 40 years there has been a gathering (held every four years) in Germany to celebrate vintage Volkswagens and, after attending the event more than a dozen years ago, a group of likeminded individuals decided the United States needed a similar event. In 2007, the International Southern California Vintage VW Treffen was born.

Held every other year so as not to interfere with the VVWCA’s Golden Gate Chapter’s vintage meet in Solvang, California, the Treffen brings together one of the best collection of vintage VWs in the country, along with a healthy dose of modified early VWs. Only pre-’62 vehicles are admitted.

Taking over the grounds of the Phoenix Club (an Anaheim-based German culture club), the Treffen gathers pre-’62 Beetles and Busses, pre-’60 Ghias, and a handful of early Porsche 356s, and arranges them by type (Splits in one area, Cabriolets in another, etc.)

Each Treffen also focuses on a particular kind of VW, and this year VW-based German military vehicles were highlighted.

Kübelwagens, Schwimwagens, and even a pre-VW 1943 KdF sedan were on display.

Vendors and manufacturers of early VW parts and pieces line the walkways, and a swap meet in the far corner of the facility allows the hoarder in you to have some fun.

The Sunday show is only about six hours long, but folks wait for two years for it to happen, so everyone is happy when it comes around. And though the Phoenix Club may no longer be in Anaheim by the time the next event rolls around in 2023 (the property has been sold), rest assured the Treffen will happen regardless, and it should be on everyone’s bucket list of events to attend.

22 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

There’s early, and then there’s uber-early. The gray sedan on the left is a pre-Volkswagen ’43 KdF owned by Lloyd Kee of Kirkland, Washington. It won its ’49 and Earlier class and the Best Original Vehicle award. On the right is an exceedingly rare ’46 roll-back KdF owned by Allison Guerra of Anaheim, California.

The Treffen allows both customized as well as restored pre-’62 Beetles and Busses, and there were a lot of both at the event.

Amphibious Schwimmwagens were made for the German war effort, and two fine examples on display were Pete Keesling’s ’43 (right) and Mark Merrill’s ’44. Pete’s ride received second place in the ’61 and Earlier Military division.

Hard to beat black paint and a lipstick-red interior on any car, but on Allison Guerra’s ’58 ’vert it’s especially nice! Her lowlight took home second in the ’59 and Earlier Ghia coupe/convertible class.

Rick Litchie from Orange, California, had more than a few factory and aftermarket accessories on his ’56 ragtop, including a cowl-mounted Telefunken antenna. He collected first place in the Oval Window Sunroof class.

Looking over the top of Robert Velis’ ’51 Standard (which claimed second in the Unrestored Beetle, Bus, Ghia class) at Lucas Blanchard’s ’51 Deluxe — both “finished” with a heavy dose of unrestored originality.

Got Wood? Chip Rodriguez filled up his ’59 double-door with enough timber to keep warm all winter, and won the Best Display Vehicle award.

You don’t see many right-hand-drive Ovals.

This ’54 belongs to Paul Salinas.

A pair of ’57 Ghias: Oscar Guevara’s in the foreground and Martin Sanchez’s behind it.

There were a few Double Cabs at the Treffen, but Andrew Geier’s ’61 stood out with its two-tone paint, polished Porsche wheels, and perfect stance.

Steve Beecher’s Split, brought up from Huntington Beach, was a clean and subtle example of a ’47 Standard, and it won second place in the ’49 and Earlier class.

New and old stuff was available in the swap meet, and we spotted these great looking badges from Adam’s Custom Badges. They also do custom designs (like for your club).

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 23

Buy, fix, sell — and repeat until you get what you want

By Jason Smith • Photography by Paul Morton 24 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

L

et’s get one thing out of the way right here and now: DeAngelo Johnson is not messing around. Over the past three years, the man has owned 30 Beetles and Busses. (Yes, three zero. In three years.)

At the moment, though, he only has six: a ’52 Split Beetle, a ’56 Beetle painted in Porsche Purpurite Metallic, two ’56 Beetle cabriolets, a ’60 23-window walkthrough, and the ridiculously sweet ’60 Double Cab you’re looking at now.

DeAngelo grew up in South Central L.A., and says that when he was a kid he always loved the sound of a vintage VW motoring down the street. In high school he found a ’69 Beetle for $600. He saved $400 and his grandfather loaned him the rest.

“At that time I didn’t even know Ovals or Splits existed,” DeAngelo says. “I was just happy to own a VW. I was into lowriders too, but nothing compared to the smell of an old VW in a field.”

About ten years later he bought and built a ’64 Beetle that had been converted to right-hand drive. “From that point on I haven’t looked back,” he says. “I’m always on the hunt for abandoned cars or projects that people will never get to.”

Here’s DeAngelo’s M.O.: He buys a car for three to seven thousand bucks. He puts about that amount back into it, then sells it.

“I do that until I work my way up to something nice,” he says, “then I keep that one and start over.”

He’s keeping this Double Cab, but when he bought it out of Maryland it was anything but nice. Anyone with less hustle than DeAngelo would have looked at the rusty husk of what had once been an actual vehicle and thought, That would make a good chicken coop. (See pictures on page 27.

Can chickens get tetanus?)

Cooker’s Restoration and Fabrication in Williamsport, Maryland used a metric crap-ton of Klassic Fab sheet metal to bring this Bus back to life. Cooker’s also painted it and built DeAngelo a 2332cc engine with dual 48 IDA Weber carbs.

The result? Well, see for yourself. Just don’t knock the hustle.

See photos of the restoration process at cookersvdubs.com

 DeAngelo Johnson of Northridge, CA never set out to be a car flipper. He just wanted to get some unloved cars back on the road while also enjoying them. Nowadays his Instagram includes advice like “Work so hard that everyone’s biggest flex is that they used to know you.” @TheVolksGallery

 It wouldn’t quite be fair to say that when DeAngelo bought this Double Cab it was a basket case. (Baskets usually have a bottom, for starters.) There might have been more sheet metal missing than present. But now? Arrow-straight and razor-sharp.

 DeAngelo in the details: One of a pair of 48 IDA Weber carbs; Jegs SSR mag wheels with Wilwood disc brakes up front; a Rockford Fosgate PMX-2 digital media receiver and AutoMeter Sport-Comp tach and oil pressure gauge.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 25

 DeAngelo’s Double sits on a custom 4-inch narrowed beam. The stock trailing arms, torsion bars, and spring plates were modified by Cooker’s Restoration and Fabrication in Willamsport, MD. The build uses Wide 5 spindles, EMPI racing axles, and KYB shocks.

 The Fenton Pearl Gray houndstooth interior was put together by Philip GW Garage and Rogelio’s Auto Upholstery in Baldwin Park, CA. An old-school three-spoke wheel and CSP shifter keep DeAngelo on track.

26 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

the build sPECS

EXTERIOR: No body mods, just what DeAngelo calls “tons of metal work.”

Bodywork and AzkoNobel paint by Cooker’s Restoration and Fabrication in Williamsport, MD. Powder coating by HiTech Powder Coating in Boonsboro, MD.

 With a 2332cc monster chock full of CB Performance parts, this Double Cab should scoot along nicely. The carbs are 48 IDA Webers; the ignition is by MSD.

 When DeAngelo said this Bus needed tons of metalwork, he wasn’t joking. Luckily, Cooker’s Restoration and Fabrication was up to the task. PHOTOS: COOKERSVDUBS.COM

CHASSIS: Custom 4" narrowed beam by Cooker’s. Wide 5 spindles. Stock trailing arms, torsion bars, and spring plates modified by Cooker’s. EMPI race axles.

Jegs SSR 5.5 x 15" mag wheels. Tires: 155/60/15 front, 225/60/15 rear. Front Wilwood disc brakes by Airkewld, stock Beetle rear brakes. KYB shocks.

ENGINE: Built by Cooker’s. 2332cc CB Performance aluminum case. 84mm CB Performance crank. Wiseco pistons, Mahle cylinders. Eagle camshaft, CB lifters, straight-cut CB cam gear. CB 1.4 rocker arms, 044 CB CNC Super Pro heads. 200mm 12-lb flywheel, Kennedy Stage 3 clutch with Daikin disc. External CB oil cooler, Maxi 30 full-flow oil pump.

48 IDA Weber carbs. MSD ignition. A1 Sidewinder exhaust.

TRANSAXLE: Type 1 built by Dowco Enterprises of Centerville, MD. 4.12 ring and pinion, HD aluminum side cover, Hi Torque starter. Gear ratios: 3.44, 2.08, 1.48, 1.04.

INTERIOR: Designed and assembled

by Philip GW Garage in Baldwin Park, CA. Custom armrests and CNC speaker pods. Upholstery in Fenton Pearl Gray houndstooth by Rogelio’s Auto Upholstery in Baldwin Park. AutoMeter Sport-Comp tach and oil pressure gauge.

Rockford Fosgate PMX-2 receiver, Image Dynamics SQ series 1200.1 and 800.4 amps (2,000 total watts), Hertz MPK 163.3 and MLK 1650.3 speakers.

 DeAngelo’s audio installation is slicker than most.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 27

JUNE BUG CLASSIC The racing, the car show, and the temperature were all super hot. Here, Wayne Wright launches hard in his “Wicked” Super Pro during a qualifying run.

L

ong before cell phones and social media, there was a time period called the 1980s! If you were around, you know how awesome it was. In the summer we wore Jams shorts, played with Rubik’s cubes, made mix tapes, and in June in Pennsylvania, we looked forward to the June Bug event at Maple Grove Raceway. In the 1990s the event got a new promoter, and it became known as the VW Super Jam. Through the ’90s and 2000s, the show still thrived, but eventually the promoters called it quits.

From the early stages of June Bug, and throughout the VW Super Jam years, there were always a few cars that were staples of the show. Those cars were owned by the Ulrich family. They also own Ulrich Sales & Services, and for decades they have specialized in VW sales and repair. Gene Ulrich knew he couldn’t let VW events disappear from a venue so near and dear to him. He grew

28 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

up attending these shows, and had fond memories of the early June Bug years.

So with the help of his family he took the reins, and in 2009 brought back the June Bug Classic to Maple Grove.

In recent years, June Bug has been a bit of a handful for Gene. I jokingly referred to it as “October Bug” because two recent events had to be postponed until October due to rain. Then of course came 2020. The show was rescheduled for October, but of course like everything else, June (or October) Bug didn’t happen.

In June 2021, the stars aligned: no postponements due to weather, no cancellations, and a near-record turnout! It was hot, and by hot, I mean record high temps and humidity, like being in a sauna on the surface of the sun. Even so, the show cars, drag racers, swappers, and spectators showed up in droves.

I was the first to arrive on the show field, before the official gates opened.

Story and photography by Nate Henderson

Chris Bradley in his 15-window. His dad Chuck is in the black Ghia behind him.

In a show dominated by customs, this stock Squareback earned a Top 25 award.

There was already an early-bird line forming, and within minutes the place was packed, with a continuous flow of cars and people swarming the event.

In past years, all show cars were entered in classes. This year there were only two: Water and Air. Top 25 awards were given to each class, and with nearly 300 cars, and on such a hot day, this was a great decision for the judges. There were also a few specialty awards given.

The Promoter’s Choice Air-Cooled Award went to Mike Casper and his Patina 1965 Bus, from Monroe Township, New Jersey. Erick Hernandez of Downingtown, Pennsylvania took the Promoter’s Choice Water-Cooled award.

Donald Nagy was awarded the Southern Pennsylvania VW Club Choice Award for his 1965 Convertible Bug with matching trailer.

Let’s not forget this event also takes place at one of the premier NHRA facilities in the country, so the drag racing is a key part of the whole thing. In the Super Pro Class, Bill Goehring, who made the trip all the way from South Carolina, took the win from Eric Hellmuth, who left a bit early. The Pro Mod Class final featured number one qualifier Steven Hawes and number two qualifier Ryan McBride. Ryan trailered his car nearly 2000 miles from Colorado to this event, and in the end, it was worth it. Ryan posted his best pass of the day with 8.732 seconds at 156mph and went on to win the Pro Mod Final.

June Bug 2021 was one of the best events in recent memory. Gene Ulrich may be the face of the event, and maybe gets most of the credit, but he knows he couldn’t do this alone. He’d like to thank all his family members — especially his mother, who hosted the kids’ coloring contest, where she helped 77 children throughout the hot day. He also thanks his friends, members of the Southern Pennsylvania VW Club, and Jason Diem from 4-Ever Customs for helping with the judging. Steven Hawes gets a big thank you as well. He sponsors the Heritage Racing Series, and kept the track side of things in running order. Put this event on your calendar; you won’t be disappointed.

Jack and Livette Simms made the trip all the way from Illinois with their ’66.

Doesn’t get much better than Bob Cook’s 1954 Barndoor, complete with a 2276cc and dual 48s!

We’re not in Orange County, California, but you’d never know by looking at Phil “Rad” Kratz’s Cal-Look ’63.

Who needs an F-250 for Home Depot trips when you’ve got a flatbed Baja with ’80s graphics?

Evan Sloat won the Kohl’s German Motors Choice Pick with his Bali Green 1978 Rabbit.

This ’52 Split was Compound Built in Long Beach and is now owned by Rob Shultz

Chopped, ragged, and suicided! Caleb Corby’s 69 Bug drew a lot of attention, and took home a top 25 plaque.

Doesn’t matter if you call it a VolksRod or a RatRod, Alejandro Caban’s ’74 Bug is cool by any name.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 29

Brian Caron from Hagerstown, MD brought his 21-window, and of course it was filled with ’80s BMX bikes.

The main man, and show promoter, Gene Ulrich! He had no time to race, but still brought his car to show off.

Sonja Suarez created a rolling tribute to her favorite place, Ocean City, Maryland, with her convertible Beetle.

Number one qualifier Steven Hawes and his EMPI-sponsored Pro-Mod lost out to Ryan McBride in the final.

Ryan McBride came all the way from Colorado to win the Pro-Mod Final with a pass of 8.732 seconds at 156mph.

The Aussie-style trim and purple accents made Terri Dugan’s ’64 stand out.

This gunmetal Cabby owned by Jeff Trainor of Ephrata, Pennsylvania, took home a Top-25 award.

The ’80s are back! Bob Daniels’ scalloped ’63 will also be on display at the Grand National Roadster Show in January 2022.

We’d like to see Keith Meyerle ride the tricycle one day!

How many rivets do you think Scott Palmucci used when building his VW ratrod?

How low can you go? Probably not much lower than John Arocho’s ’56 Oval.

30 VW TRENDS • FALL SUMMER ’21 ’21

• SUMMER • FALL ’21 31 VW TRENDS VW TRENDS

HE

IS

FLUFFY MAN

Gabriel Iglesias: comic superstar, serious collector, VW superfan, Marvel nerd, and all-around good guy!

By Rich Crafton Photography by Rich Crafton and Dan Leadbetter

32 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

How would you like to step out here every morning with your cup of coffee? Definitely a view we wouldn’t mind having!

B

ehind every successful person you’re apt to find a very talented group of people who work day and night to protect, promote, and serve their host. Enter “Team Fluffy” — Gabriel Iglesias’ tactical team who help run operations, oversee his schedule, and, most importantly for this story, manage his collection of over $3 million in VW Buses.

For those of you living without electricity and no access to the internet, Gabriel Iglesias is also known as “Fluffy,” thanks to a self-effacing joke he tells during his standup: “I’m not fat, I’m just fluffy!” He’s not only one of the hottest comedians on the planet, he’s also a die-hard VW enthusiast.

We had heard stories about Gabriel’s VW museum and all of the amazing wonders that lurked within, so all of us at VW Trends knew we just had to get in.

Team Fluffy sent editor-in-chief Dan and me the coordinates to an industrial area somewhere in Long Beach (we could tell you where, but we would have to then

One of Gabriel’s favorites, the Iron Man Bus — so named because the paint reminded him of Iron Man.

kill you). As we exited the 405 freeway we wondered what type of secret hideaway we would come upon — and suddenly, as if an oasis popped out of the bleak concrete jungle, there it was: a fortified compound right out of a comic book. You would expect to see “Stark Industries” on the side of the building; it was the coolest garage/toy shop I’ve ever been to. After ringing the security buzzer, we were let in. Truthfully, I felt like a 13-year-old kid going to Disneyland for the first time. This was going to be a great day.

As we entered the compound, we encountered an airplane-hangar-sized open garage with high ceilings and a row of 17 immaculate Buses lined up directly in front — breathtaking. After I picked my jaw up off the polished concrete floor, I was impressed by all the details and immediately had a sense that this playhouse was an extension of Gabriel himself — everything that brings him joy, comfort, and perhaps the childhood he never had.

One thing you notice right off the bat:

This garage is really decked out more like a museum. There are murals and commissioned paintings on the wall, which create the perfect backdrop for this showcase collection of Volkswagens. Plus, when you look closely, you see plenty of cool things that you might have missed on first glance — like a Brazilian VW Bus that was cut in half and turned into an aquarium (that one is from the TV show Tanked). There’s also a really sweet VW Bus refrigerator.

Honestly, we could go on and on about all the cool stuff Gabriel has tucked away here. But let’s get right into the VWs. The collection includes the two-tone teal and white ’75 featured on his Netflix show Mr. Iglesias, a mouse-grey 23-window, the stunning Iron Man Bus, a camper, and a super-clean blue Beetle — and that just scratches the surface. As I walked around Gabriel’s hidden lair, I noted the amazing nook of Marvel memorabilia he collects — everything from action figures and rare comics to a life-sized Iron Man next page ••

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 33

 If you’re any sort of Fluffy fan, you know this Bus from his hit Nextflix series Mr. Iglesias. It’s tricked out with a Subaru engine swap!

Mark IV suit.

I turned another corner and saw an amazing 16-foot wall covered in framed signed pictures of celebrities posing with Gabriel. That’s another aspect of his hard work and fame: Gabriel’s not your average enthusiast. He’s next-level and has the resources to create, restore, and modify each Bus and Bug according to his personal vision and taste.

After a solid 20 minutes of walking around in a dazed and envious stupor, I remembered I was there to bring back a slice of these inspirational VWs for all of you, our beloved VWT fans. Just as I began taking pictures, I heard an electric whirl on wheels approaching fast — and there was Gabriel Iglesias ( @fluffyguy), cruisin’ at top speed on his new Rascal with Vinny and Risa, his Chihuahuas. The man knows how to make an entrance.

You could tell right away Gabriel is a generous person: He was affable, downto-earth, and excited to show us around his sanctum sanctorum. Each Bus has a story, and Gabriel can tell some really

34 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

great ones. We spent a good couple of hours love-at-first-sight encounter began with with him, asking questions and laughing this make and model and the rest is a lot (don’t forget to go to the blog section of sweet history. The one he now owns is vwtrendsmagazine.com for our full internot the original that he owned decades view with Gabriel.) ago, but it fills the memory left behind.

You may be asking yourself, does Gabriel 1966 Camper: purchased overseas. work on these rides himself? Well, no. He’s The original owner provided a solid a bit busy on a world tour, filming shows restoration, but that was not going to do. and well, you know, working — a lot. This is Gabriel wanted a classy, totally custom where Team Fluffy comes in. One person in combo of mouse gray and seagull gray, particular, Henry and had the Marchena ( @ interior cabinets Check out our interview henry_marchena_ rebuilt and a with Fluffy on page 74 resto), has collabogloss varnish rated with Gabriel applied. The for over a decade. motor came from Henry takes Gabriel’s vision and makes it Powerhouse in Torrance, California, and reality — a bit MacGyver mixed with Mad the remaining drivetrain was completed Max. Henry’s the real deal. I loved hearing

by Oldspeed in Paramount, California. how the two work together to explore ideas The rest of the work was Henry’s: exteand options that will work best for each rior trim in chrome, jalousie windows, project. They’re a dynamic duo, you might bumpers, racks, window frames — you say (had to have one DC shout-out). get the picture.

Let’s break down a few of Gabriel’s Type 1975 Bus: Look familiar? Well, it IIs: should if you are a fan of Gabriel’s Netflix 1968 Gray bay-window Bus: Gabriel’s comedy show Mr. Iglesias. This Bus was

 All of Gabriel’s Busses are absolutely pristine. Just look at this beautiful split.

 Gabriel really wanted to give his collection the look and feel of a real museum. He commissioned VW artwork in the style of old travel posters to adorn the walls.

 Gabriel’s showcase isn’t just for Busses. Check out this ’58 Aussie-trimmed ragtop.

 This is just a small part of Gabriel’s Marvel collection.

 Manny, Moe, Jack and… Fluffy?

 No Bus collection is complete without... an aquarium? Named Fluffy and Buffy, these two were made for Gabriel by the guys on the TV show Tanked.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 35

 Gabriel bought this ’63 before he met his longtime friend and current resto guy Henry. On the way to the restoration shop a fire started in the engine compartment.

It was put out fairly quickly. The Bus spent about a year at the shop before Henry took over. It now features one of Gabriel’s favorite color schemes: mouse gray and pearl white. It has a custom paprika and mesh gray interior. All exterior trim was fully chromed. Oldspeed in Paramount, California built a powerful 2-liter motor with dual 44 Webers. Henry finished the rest, with no details spared. This is the mouse that roars!

 In our video interview, Gabriel called himself a “refrigerator aficionado.” He was kidding, but not everyone has a badass VW fridge in their museum. Then again, not everyone has a museum.

 BIG shout out to Gabriel and his team, who took time out of a busy world tour to let us hang out in his playhouse! See our interview with Gabriel on page 74.

selected for the show to represent a car that superhero’s flying suit, and the Bus a teacher might be able to afford (well, if sports a 2-liter engine with 911-style $25k or more is displacement affordable). built by Oldspeed.

VW Trends is proud to be the first 1967 Iron 1963 gray May in magazine to break the news that Man Bus: When 23-window: Did be will sias Igle ffy” 2022, Gabriel “Flu at live orm featured on Jay ya’ hear the one perf to ic com first very the More Leno’s Garage, about the Bus legendary Dodger Stadium in L.A. to get m y.co ygu fluff to Go e. com to info this Bus was that caught on your tickets NOW! mint green. But fire on the way to Gabriel wanted the resto shop? something with a Yeah, not a funny story. See all the bit more “wow” factor. Enter Iron Man: details above.

The color scheme somewhat mimics While this place serves double duty

36 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

as his merch fulfillment center and VW compound, Gabriel would like to one day turn his collection into a museum. Here’s my advice: When that day comes, buy your ticket, stand in line, and bring your camera. The one thing I know for sure is this collection will continue to grow, and with Gabriel’s big heart, he will want to share it with you. Every kid wants to have show and tell with his favorite toys. We’ll see you in line. For now, if you want to catch Gabriel on tour, go to fluffyguy.com and get a ticket to one of his upcoming shows!

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 37

Trace the custom VW scene back to its origins and you’ll find men and women toiling in dimly lit shops, using basic tools and making air-cooled magic happen. The killer Baja that inspired yours? Likely built in a humble residential garage. Most of the ’80s Cal Look cars?

Garage built, with an unabashed passion and creativity that is alive and well today. Each issue we’ll pick a deserving builder and highlight their space and their cars. Could you be next? Contact us: dzemla@gmail.com, DM @airkooledgarage or tag #garagebuiltvws.

Adam completed this 2056cc Type 4 build in 2020.

The 2056cc build in progress.

Adam’s high school Bug is currently back in the garage for a bit of a refresh. He says he’s not sure it’ll ever be done.

feeding the 1915, but Adam replaced them

HOME ENGINEERED with a MegaSquirt fuel-injection system

By David Zemla

A

dam Brandt of Atlanta, Georgia, is an engineer, originally from Texas, and he began his VW journey with a surprise gift from his grandfather: a rough but original 1967 Beetle that, to a fifteen-yearold, was the coolest car ever made. He and grandpa spent the next few years in a small garage reviving the car that Adam would drive throughout his high school years.

That ’67 was more than just a high school project; it launched a lifetime obsession.

The ’67 Bug started out with a mild 1776.

By Adam’s early college years the car had a more aggressive 1915. Then he parked it in favor of school, life, and eventually kids. By 2008 the proverbial bug had returned and the ’67 was back in Adam’s garage getting a cleanup. A set of dual Dellortos had been

38 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

from the EFI gurus at The Dub Shop. He topped the injection system with a homemade turbo setup and won best custom engine in the 2010 Texas VW Classic.

Adam has never really stopped wrenching on the high school car. Eventually he went back to a normally aspirated 2276 stroker comprised of Steve Tims heads with a stage-two port, CB 2288 cam and 48 IDFs. Adam says this combo has been his favorite of all of the VWs he’s built, and we’d be hard-pressed to argue.

By 2012 the car had spent some serious time in the garage with the 2276 receiving a home-built EFI system (we did say Adam is an engineer, right?), a larger turbo, and eventually an attempt at individual throttle bodies using parts from a Suzuki GSXR. What would be a daunting project for most was stalled not by lack of talent, but by the family-friendly lure of a Type 2. The high

Adam finished this 2276cc turbo EFI build about ten years ago.

school Bug was soon relegated to storage, but it never really left Adam’s heart.

A total of 19 VWs have made their home in Adam’s garage, including eleven Busses, a handful of Bugs, and even a ’78 Scirocco.

The high school Bug now resides next to a ’74 Bay Window he picked up in 2017. Adam now works out of a 30-by-30-foot shop adjacent to his house and has devoted most of the space to his VWs. His tool collection now includes both a MIG and TIG welder, a tabletop band saw, a disc sander, a fullsize drill press for metal fab, and a 20-ton hydraulic press which he plans to use for an upcoming finger-brake conversion.

Adam bought the ’74 Bay with a water-cooled motor swap in mind. It’s currently powered by the heart of a ’99 Subaru Forester and a harness Adam constructed himself. The SOHC EJ25 was a fresh build on a factory short block, and it was mated to a regeared 6-rib 091, with Adam custom building the exhaust and underbelly

Adam’s building efforts have evolved from a dimly-lit one-car garage to this 30x30 standalone shop next to his Georgia home.

Adam’s son Ryan has become a pivotal part of the garage builds.

The ’74 Bay doing what it does best: exploring with Adam and his family (here on Hwy. 129, the Tail of the Dragon, which runs through Eastern Tennessee and Western North Carolina).

Adam’s grandfather was recently reunited with the ’67 Bug they built together.

cooling system. The Bus rolls on Porsche Boxster wheels, Cayman disks, and WagensWest suspension parts. It sits at a very drivable height and that’s what Adam and his growing family do with it. It has even made the run on US-129 — the storied Tail of the Dragon, which boasts 318 turns in 11 short miles — with the entire family in tow and all their gear strapped to the roof rack.

The engine swap has over ten thousand miles on it and continues to be reliable.

With the Bus sorted it was time to get back to the high school car. Adam’s plan was to reuse the Type 4 motor from his late Bay, and he built a 2056cc engine that ran 42 x 36 valved AMC 2.0L heads, an 86A cam with dual Weber 40s and a DTM con-

planning on using a Type 1 DTM shroud and 44 IDFs to start out, but he’s admitted to already digging out his old collection of fuel-injection parts, too. That sounds like a fun combo, and we’re looking forward to seeing it on the road.

When he’s not wrenching, Adam and his family spend their time exploring in the Bay Window Bus. As of late he’s been pondering a Type 3 build, a 1303 German Look Super, and possibly adding air conditioning to the Bay. If you want to follow Adam’s antics, catch him at @vee_dub_nut.

We love the creativity and ingenuity coming out of Adam’s garage and can’t wait to see what you’re building in yours.

version shroud. Exhaust gasses exited through an Ahnendorp header and a Flowmaster bullet muffler. It was a solid combo, it didn’t quite meet Adam’s high expectations, so he temporarily replaced it with a humble 1600 from a Squareback. The 1600 sported a CB MagnaSpark ignition, an MST serpentine belt setup, and an EMPI stainless sideflow header, all fed by dual 40 IDFs. It’s no surprise that Adam is already working on the next combo. The current build is an aluminum-cased 2180, 92 x 82mm with thickwall cylinders and AA forged pistons, another 2288 cam, and his favorite stage-two heads from Performance Workshop in Riverside, California. He’s

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 39

40 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

PETRO’S PAGES VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 41 ILLUSTRATION: RON PETRO

FINALLY, A FLING! After a year of pandemic-related cancellations and a few weeks of delays by the County of Madera, the 26th Annual Madera Spring Fling had its day in the sun.

2020

was a year that we’d all love to forget.

But as with all dark periods of history, we began to see some semblance of normalcy this spring, including the slow return of our cherished VW events. One such show was the annual Madera Spring Fling. Put on by the N.O.S. VW Club of Fresno, it’s held in late April, just before the Central Valley heat index rises above 100°.

The Spring Fling began quietly enough about 29 years ago with a simple question by some Fresno VW enthusiasts: “Why don’t we have an event closer to home?” Before long, over 20 VWs were attending these relatively informal gatherings regularly. In 1994 the N.O.S. (New Old Stock) VW Club of Fresno was created to formally run the first official

42 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

N.O.S. VW Spring Fling at Sebring West Automotive in Fresno — 40 VWs attended. The show grew quickly. Three years later they needed a larger venue, and Spring Fling landed at its current location, the Madera County Fairgrounds 20 miles north of Fresno. It was the perfect location for a car show, with ample shade trees and grass, and plenty of room for camping. Today, in a normal year the event sees over 450 cars and a full swap meet, and since its inception the club has raised over $15,000 for charity through the Spring Fling.

This year, the show’s typical late April date was postponed by county officials by three weeks to May 15 due to rapidly changing regulations. And there were an abundance of restrictions: no raffles, no kids contest, no awards … and no Parade

Story and photography by Bruce Simurda of Champions, all of which are popular happenings at this event.

Fortunately, the Fling has many other traditions that make it a winner year after year, including the show, swap meet, food trailers and, of course, camping. The camping is so popular that VWs begin rolling in on Friday afternoon to get the best spots. People stay through the end of the event Sunday afternoon.

Three days is a lot of VW shop talk!

Of course, most people arrived Sunday morning for the show and swap.

This event gets a nice mix of air- and water-cooled VWs, in classic and custom configurations, so there’s truly something for every VW enthusiast. As usual, the swap meet was packed with sellers and buyers — no doubt eager to make up for lost time! And while the show-car

Several local clubs, like Central Valley Aircooled, make the Fling a yearly bash.

James Beatty’s ’73 Super has a 145hp CB Performance engine and Porsche wheels.

Robert Robello and his ‘56 Oval. Robert handled the bodywork and paint himself.

air-bagged suspension and 2109cc turbocharged engine from CB Performance really bring it all together!

Other cool cars we noticed included the blue “shorty bus” of Eddie Vargas from Los Angeles. Must be one wild ride.

We also took time to admire Eddie Plaza’s red ’66 Bug riding on fully polished alloys. His high school buddy painted this beauty way back in 2010 — it still looks immaculate! Another custom worthy of mention was Miguel Pimentel’s ’55 Oval, painted 2002 Mini Cooper White and sporting a Safari windshield and rear Oval. But perhaps the most noticeable features on Miguel’s car are the wide 3-piece wheels with rare South African Rostyle Sprint Star centers.

On the vintage side, Daniel Sorrentino of Venice Beach brought his pristine Cor-

al Red ’56. Featuring flawless body and paint by Deutschland Metal and Body, this otherwise stock Bug is powered by a detailed Okrasa engine and is definitely a sweet ride! And for late-model lovers, it was hard to miss the yellow ’73 Super of James Beatty from Atwater with its Porsche wheels and side graphics.

Despite the absence of many activities people have come to expect at the Spring Fling, we feel most went away happy just to get out and enjoy the day and take in the many things that the show had to offer. And kudos to members of the N.O.S. VW Club of Fresno who hung in there and dealt with the changing rules, regulations, and dates! Without their hard work, dedication, and love of classic VWs, this great event would still be waiting to recover.

 A turbocharged 2109cc engine powers David Hicks’ radical custom Volksrod.  Fenders? A roof? Who needs ‘em? The body is supported by a custom chassis.

count was down from previous years, presumably due to pandemic apprehensions, we did see some familiar faces, such as Robert Robello with his beautiful black 1956. This Oval was completely bodyworked, painted and rewired by its owner, and is outstanding from end to end. A few of the details include 48 Webers on tall Scat manifolds, an MST Serpentine belt system, Airkewld fourwheel disc brakes, a Rancho Pro Street transaxle, and polished Centerline aluminum wheels.

On the other side of the spectrum, but equally cool, was David Hicks’ freshly completed gray V-rod from Visalia. This eye catcher used the lower front body section of a Bug, and little else! The car has no fender, roof, or hood, and the engine/trans are totally exposed. An

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 43

The cafeteria was replaced this year with several food trucks and an outdoor BBQ.

This beautiful L351 Coral Red ’56 Oval belongs to Daniel Sorrentino of Venice Beach.

The car has a little period-correct surprise under the hood, courtesy of Okrasa.

This super-clean Westy with a custom brown interior is perfect for glamping.

Jeff Dowcan’s ’64 Bus has a 1915cc engine with dual Webers and an A1 exhaust.

Ernie Garcia handled the interior of his slammed ’60. The ragtop is from Sewfine.

Who you callin’ short? Owner Eddie Vargas cut and rejoined this ’58 body himself over 15 years go. The paint is only two years old; the interior is still a work in progress.

44 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

Eddie Plaza’s ‘66 was painted by his buddy back in 2010 and still looks good.

Here’s a ’60 Deluxe Bus hanging out in the swap meet. Wonder which Bus is for sale?

We can’t think of a much better way to get around the event.

Miguel Pimentel’s ’55 Oval features Safari windows front and rear and sits on rare threepiece South African Rostyle Sprint Stars. Miguel’s good friend painted his Bug.

VAG Club USA brought some watercooled goodness to the show.

Bryan Peters, a founding member of the N.O.S. VW Club, was busy in the swap.

N.O.S. club members working the event included Gary Clifford, Tony Kokalis, Lucas Kokalis, Casey Rude and Wes Rude.

A wagon for carrying swap-meet finds, and a scrap-metal robot for, uh... well, we’re not sure what it’s for. The blue Bug behind the artwork is definitely a nice piece, too.

EVENT SPONSORS: CB Performance, Tony Pasco, Wolfsburg West, Deutschland Metal and Body, All American Glass, Burnett’s Sand Center, Clovis VW, Resto Bus, Bulli Fans, Innovative Industrial Coatings Inc., Metalcraft Motorsports, Koch’s, Cap’s Brite Hot Coatings, Wall & Eades Auto Upholstery, U.S. Tint, Deutschlanders VW Club, and The Madera Fairgrounds.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 45

TECH

UNHINGED!

Rebuilding Bus door hinges the right way Story and photography by Eric Geisert

or as overbuilt most ’60s-era VW parts and pieces seem to be, Volkswagen’s choice of rivets to hold Bus doors to their hinges seems surprising. With the weight of the window assembly and decades of people hanging on the open doors and bangin’ them shut, the thin sheetmetal around the hinges begins to crack, then tear.

The problem becomes a domino effect, causing other parts to fail, too. The doors become harder to close, requiring more effort to make them latch, which starts to wear on the latch mechanism.

But metal fabricator Brian Washburn knows it doesn’t have to be that way.

After stopping by his shop, Washburn’s Metal in Orange, California, we found he really knows his way around Type 2s. He’s built up a nice business taking pre-’68 Buses, Oval and Split-window sedans, and the occasional 356 down to the barest bones to do needed repairs, then reassembling them the way the factory did.

There’s one job that is standard operating procedure for every Type 2 that comes into his place: repairing door hinges.

Cracked or worn areas around the rivets (which hold the door’s sheet metal to the

downward, and don’t bring the bit back up through the hole (remove the bit before bringing the tool back out). Be sure to use an air hose to knock the metal shavings off the ream bit before going to the next hole.

Sometimes Bus doors get slightly flattened when they’ve been removed and things are stacked on them or they’re otherwise not taken care of. Some doors may take a couple of hours to get back into shape, but bad ones can take six hours or longer — expensive, but absolutely necessary if you want perfect gaps and to close your doors with a finger instead of your whole body! Gaps for the hatch, decklid, and side panels sometimes need adjustments, too.

One other bit of advice Washburn has for the DIY’er: When twisting the shape of the door by hand, don’t get greedy! Small, incremental amounts are best. Increasing the size of the fulcrum by only a little will radically change the amount you’ll be moving, so only tiny pushes!

With all that in mind, follow along as Washburn correctly fits a Bus door to its new home, and see the amount of time and effort it takes to make it perfect.

F

46 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

hinge) will affect the door gap (the space between the door and the body) and, the bigger the gap, the worse the problem. Even if the metal around the rivets isn’t cracked on a Bus that has come to his shop, Washburn still welds them up. It would eventually need to be done anyway, and this way the doors will stay aligned for years to come.

This repair also addresses the hinge pin’s hole. It it’s misshapen from wear, it will need to be reamed and fitted with one of two different oversized pins: .317" or .321" (a stock .315" is also available).

If you’re doing this work yourself, try the .317" first and only go to the .321" if necessary. (Note: Elephant-ear mirror arms for late split Buses aren’t sold with oversize pins, only the .315" size.) Don’t do this repair with the door’s rubber seals in place, and never shim anything anywhere.

Shimming is just a bandage for an underlying problem.

Washburn notes that a lot of people try to open the hinge holes with a drill bit rather than a ream bit. Drill bits only cut at the tip — ream bits use their entire thread. When using the reamer, you should push through the hole only once, only

 1. You may have hinges that are pristine, but some look like someone drove their Type 2 over to the U.S. from Germany!

 5. Problems can start when even a light crack around the rivets can be seen, which means it’s starting to move around.  8. You can easily see the large gap (nearly .125") between the skin and the upper hinge in this “before” photo.

 2. This page from what looks to be a vintage repair manual notes that the thickness of the sheet metal was increased around the lower hinge and that the factory’s pressed-in rivets should be welded in place.

 6. Here you can see where the door structure’s material has completely broken away, leaving just a small remnant in place.

 9. A mallet on the backside of the hinge will help close the doorskin gap, but you’ll have to reweld the rivets. If you hit too hard you’ll roll up the door skin, which is very difficult to fix.

 3. Well-fit doors and good rebuilt hinges should produce a small gap like this between the hinge and the door skin — about .016 inches.

 7. Washburn sees factory date stamps on some hinges, mostly from ’65 thru ‘67, with the month stamped above the year.

 4. This condition is typical: the inner door structure has torn from fatigue around the factory rivets.

 10. Washburn uses sheet metal vise grips to move the hinge back to close the doorskin gap.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 47

 11. After the preliminary work, the gap measures .016".

 14. The hinge pin hole should be round, not oblong like this, but this one can be fixed.

 17. The “pin” section of the arm must be wire-wheeled and cleaned of any primer or debris before assembly.

 18. It’s always a good idea to doublecheck the pin diameter. This one is perfect at .0321".

 12. At this point, Washburn can start TIG fusing (with no filler rod) the factory rivets in place. All welding is done inside the door, as Washburn doesn’t want to alter the stock appearance of the rivets.

 15. Washburn uses an aircraft-type pneumatic air riveter to drive the old hinge pin out of its home.

 19. Using a drill with a .0321" fluted reaming bit coated with cutting oil, Washburn opens up the hinge hole to its new diameter.

 13. The TIG fusing is done only at the points of contact between the rivet’s edge and the doorskin.

48 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

 16. Left: Wolfsburg West has mirror arm assemblies (of which the upper hinge pin is a part) available in .0321" diameter just for this type of repair. Right: the lower .0321" hinge pin. Mirror arm assemblies for late Split-window buses come only in the stock .0315" diameters.

 20. Because Bus side mirrors need to be located in different spots to work correctly, their mounting arm shapes are different. The (A) arm is for the passenger side, and (B) is for the driver.

 26. The upper mirror arm goes in, with the plastic washers on both sides.  23. Washburn uses white lithium grease in each of the hinges.

 21. The hinge on the door needs to be reamed with the same fluted .0321” bit.

 24. After greasing the lower hinge pins, Washburn taps them into place.

 22. Inside the both top and bottom hinge you’ll find two grooved channels opposite each other that need to be cleaned of debris. These hold grease to lube the hinge pins.

 24. Washburn uses a hand dolly on the backside to keep the repaired hinge from shifting out of place.

 27. Using a chisel, Washburn taps over the retaining tabs for the lock nut. The hinge should work freely at this point, without binding.

 28. The upper hinge with the mirror arm in place should look like this.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 49

 32. There’s a tiny bit of adjustment available in the door latch area, too, that can be done after the major alignment.

 35. The bottom hinge controls where the upper corner of the door will end up, while the upper hinge controls the bottom area of the door.

 29. First try with the door in place: You can see how much it needs to come down so the body lines match up.

 33. Though it’s easier to assemble the door without the window assembly in place, you should account for its weight (almost 17 pounds) when adjusting door gaps. Before making adjustments, Washburn adds 17 pounds of bar stock into the bottom channel of the door to mimic the window weight.

 36. A block of wood provides a fulcrum so that when Washburn pushes the door inward, it creates a slight lift in the door at the point above the fulcrum.

 30. The gap between the inner side of the door should be addressed, too. You want the door to stand an even amount of space away from where the seal track will be attached.

 31. The section of the door above the body’s dogleg is another area of concern.

All door-to-body areas need to be flush to each other, and gaps should be even.

50 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

 34. Much of the door’s adjustment is done by “springing the hinge” with various sizes of metal pins placed between the hinge, with Washburn giving a slight downward tug or pull at the other end of door to adjust the angle. Be careful! It doesn’t take much force to move it a lot.

 37. After the alignment is finished, the door striker plate will need to be adjusted a little as well. Now the horizontal body line is even, and the door gap measurement around the edge of the entire door is equal.

Tired arms. Achy knees.

Greasy, bloodied knuckles.

Nothing says weekend fun like a full restoration project.

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2800 North 3rd St. • Effingham, IL 62401 • 866-350-4535 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 51

BUGORAMA BUGORAMA #86 #86 This staple of VW events continues to deliver fun, sun, and good vibes all around.

Story and photography by Rich Crafton DRAG RACE RESULTS: Top Eliminator: Bret Matney (14.098 seconds @138.16 mph) Pro Modified: Drew Kremers (10.430 seconds @131.04 mph) Super Street: Doug Gonzalez (11.792 seconds @NA) Pro Turbo: Jason Fuller (8.952 seconds @148.58 mph) Pro Gas: Ivan Martinez (11.352 seconds @116.90 mph) Super Combo: Ron Vanderschaaf (11.909 seconds @104.32 mph) Pro Eliminator: Jim Balzer (13.008 seconds @103.66 mph) Sportsman Eliminator: Sam Duncan (16.907 seconds @79.11 mph) Trophy: Connor Neufeld (14.834 seconds @95.77 mph)

52 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

“C

hili today, hot tamale!” was a phrase I heard a lot growing-up in the ’70s and ’80s in Southern California.

The further north you go, cold mornings and hot afternoons become a fixture you can count on — much like the Bugorama has been for over 40 years.

The Hole family, who also run Pierside Parts in Huntington Beach (piersideparts.net) have dedicated their time and efforts into hosting and promoting this event every Memorial and Labor Day weekend since 1978.

What do you get for the price of admission?

This Labor Day show was filled with about 350 Dubs, a sprawling swap-meet area, vendors’ row, and of course, the quarter-mile drags. I timed the walk from one end to the other at just under 30 minutes. Of course, I had to stop every ten feet to buy a cool VW toy or bargain with someone for those classic BRMs… What I love about this show is the flow — how you can ogle over all the rides (both air- and water-cooled) during the

cool of the morning and then spend a leisurely few hours walking the swap meet until the races begin in the early afternoon.

There were some very clean entries and a good diversity of daily drivers, patinas, and custom rides. Some of the standouts were Pete Woods’ playful ’69 turquoise chop, Daniel Padilla’s ’67 ice-cream bar orange Bug, and Ricardo Ramirez’s 2014 GLI. All the show winners were a delight to see.

The heat was on, literally, during the drag portion of the event with special safety precautions to ensure the best results without incident — which the Bugorama Racing Series did by running a couple of qualifying sessions the night before when the track was cooler.

Whether you’ve attended every year since the beginning or just had your first Bugorama experience this year, you’re sure to mark your calendar for the next one — this event has something for everyone and is a great way to catch up with friends, old and new.

TOP 25 EVENT WINNERS 1. Brandon Jackson, ’58 Karmann Ghia Convertible 2. Daniel Padilla, ’67 Beetle 3. Paul Wallace, ’69 Fastback 4. Jacob Keyes, ’56 Beetle 5. Cruz, ’62 Beetle 6. Chad Townsend, ’67 Beetle 7. Jaime Borjon, ’59 Beetle 8. Machado family, ’67 Kombi 9. Gary Clark, ’69 Beetle Convertible 10. Eric Scheppers, ’57 Beetle 11. Kurt Kissman, ’55 Beetle 12. McLovin’, ’65 Beetle 13. Brian Walima, ’64 Convertible 14. Marc Kuttner, ’59 Beetle 15. April and Audrey, ’62 Beetle 16. Troy Movius, ’78 Bus 17. John Scott, ’73 Thing 18. David Gleckler, ’57 Bus 19. Brian Hernandez, ’59 Bus 20. Dave M., ’56 Beetle 21. Melodie Mayo, ’63 Beetle 22. Eric, ’57 Buggy 23. Rob and Kay, ’63 Beetle 24. Wayne, ’64 Double Cab 25. Bryan, ’65 Bus Here’s a Type 181 in Sunshine Yellow to brighten your day.

Here’s a ’70 Beetle on a ’71 Super Beetle pan — all yours for a Grover Cleveland.

This custom Harly Wax Dune buggy came straight out of Lidsville.

Doug Campion’s daily driver ’64 Notch has over 200,000 miles and is still going strong!

See next page for water-cooled awards.

Pete Woods brings it down to size with his ’69 turquoise chop.

SPECIAL AWARDS Coolest Off Road: Mike Douglas, ’69 Baja Coolest Volksrod: Steve Mann, ’65 Beetle Best Patina: Mike Bunyard , ’61 Beetle Most Original Car: Eugene Meza, ’69 Beetle Best Special Construction: Pete Woods, ’69 Short Beetle Best Interior: Emilio Chavarria, ’01 Jetta GLI Host Club Choice: Eric Scheppers, ’57 Beetle Most Outstanding Engine: Dave M., ’56 Beetle Promoter’s Choice: Brandon Jackson, ’58 Karmann Ghia Convertible

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 53

Bugorama had a killer H20 lineup.

Patches? Yes, we need those stinkin’ patches!

If you need us, we’ll just be over here looking at the mesmerizing patina on this Beetle’s deck lid...

54 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

TOP 10 WATERCOOLED WINNERS 1. Emilio Chavarria, ’01 GTI 2. Memo ’04 GLI 3. Carlos De Los Santos, ’07 GTI 4. Vlad Oselsky, ’87 Scirocco 5. Juan Salas, ’04 GLI 6. Daniel Navarro, ’07 GLI 7. Rick Filipino, ’17 GLI 8. Janahi Pearson, ’82 Quantum 9. Gerardo Bazan, ’00 Mexican Kombi 10. Ricardo Ramirez, ’14 GLI

The doors played Sacramento in a swapper’s paradise.

Doesn’t get much cleaner than this — not your standard 1600cc dual-port.

This photo pretty much sums up the entire VW lifestyle. This hawker has some very interesting items for sale…  Loving this 50/50 Creamsicle paint scheme on Daniel Padilla’s ’67.  It’s all in the details: Even Padilla’s powerplant is a thing of beauty.

Dig Donna Grafton’s ’69 burgundy Buggy.

Not building a Buggy? How ’bout a hot tub? (Just add water.)

Skater’s safari: Jaime Borjon’s super-clean top-25 winning ’59.

What have we here, hiding under this tent?

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 55

BANDAI VACATION BUS

by DG Leadbetter

S

ome people are rabid collectors of all things Volkswagen: Some collect dealership signs, others hoard brochures, while still others search for mechanics’ shop aprons and work shirts. Then there are the true fanatics… the toy collectors.

Back in the day, VW toys of all shapes and styles were cheap and plentiful. And luckily for us, they were made all over the world.

The Bandai Japanese toy company was founded in 1950. About a year later, Bandai began to export inexpensive toys to the U.S. and other foreign markets. By 1955, Bandai had established a blossoming manufacturing facility,and by the early 1960s, Bandai started offering direct overseas sales. The toys became so popular that Bandai opened an office in New York. Included in Bandai’s range of metal Volkswagens were Sedans, Busses, and Convertibles. Even though these were inexpensive toys , they included all the trim and other little details.

Kids played rough with them, destroyed them (How many of you ever lit a firecracker inside a toy car?), or just threw them away when they grew tired of them. Fewer and fewer of these Japanese tin toys remain today, and the uber-rare “mint in the box” examples can command top dollar.

The owner acquired this early 1960s 1/20th-scale Bandai VW Bus years ago at a swap meet. (We’ll call the owner Arthur Junior, for reasons that are his and his alone.) Arthur’s new old Bus was far from pristine; it was rusty, dented, and in need of serious repair. So he took the Bus apart, stripped the paint, and repaired the body.

He cleaned and painted or polished all the small intricate parts, and made the friction motor and tires like new. Then he painted the body and put everything back together.

Most people would be completely happy

56 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

 This Bandai VW Bus was in a pretty sorry state when the owner picked it up at a swap meet. But like any true enthusiast, he saw the potential beneath the surface and painstakingly restored it to mint condition… and beyond.  The owner’s sense of humor shines through in the Jägermeister logo across the back and and the “DOUBLE HOT DOG” badge across the license plate.

that they had restored a very rough, wellplayed-with toy. Not Arthur. He wanted to personalize it and make it uniquely his.

Remember back when cars sported travel decals like it was a contest to see who had visited the most places?

Arthur stumbled across an eBay auction for a bunch of vacation decals from the 1960s. They were way too large for a 1/20th scale Bus, but Arthur found plenty of good decal graphics online that he could download, enhance, crop, and scale to fit the Bus. He used a color laser printer to print them onto clear decal paper.

Can you image the labor of love and the very slow process of cutting out and applying all these decals? Painstaking work, to be sure. Once Arthur got the decals onto the Bus, he applied a coat of clear paint.

It really takes a clear vision, ambition, and more than a little patience to restore a well-worn toy. But to make it one-of-a-kind is a whole other process. Take a look at the various stickers adorning this reborn Bandai VW Bus! Have you been to any of those places? Drop us a line at dan@vwtrendsmagazine.com and tell us if you recognize any of them. And stay tuned for the next installment of “Toys in the Attic!”

 The Bus was completely restored.

Even the friction motor and tires look brand new.  Resizing 100 graphics, printing them out, and calculating a new home for them was a lot of work. But the end result was more than worth it.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 57

58 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

Cesar Rivas’ ’82 Rabbit Pickup sets the standard for H20 engine swaps!

By DG Leadbetter • Photography by Paul Morton

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 59

 Cesar’s Rabbit shows just how far you can take a vision. You have to see it in person to appreciate all the work that went into it.

S

ome people just have Volkswagens in their blood. It’s not like they went out and “found” a VW, more like the VW came and found them. From that moment on, the relationship is forged, and once that bond is formed, let no man put it asunder!

That exactly what happened to Cesar Rivas of Arlington, Texas. Cesar was a mere 14 years old when his dad brought home a ’92 Beetle. He went on multiple joyrides in that VW, and that was the start of his longstanding relationship with his now favorite brand of car.

When he was 23, Cesar got his first VW: a ’98 VR6 Passat. A respectable first car for sure. Since then he’s owned everything from an ’86 16V Sirocco to a ’13 Jetta — and then there’s this ’82 Rabbit Pickup.

Cesar scored this pickup for $2,000. A Rabbit pickup isn’t the first thing most people would look for as a project vehicle, but Cesar is one of those guys that has vision!

He knew that this one was a real diamond in the rough, and he was ready to bring it

60 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

back to life and take it to the next level.

78hp 1.6-liter four-banger when you can The first thing to do was update the stuff in a double-throwdown, hurt-me seating. The stock seats were ho-hum, so 2.8-liter VR6 24-valve 220hp powerplant Cesar was able to nab some sweet Recaro from a 2004 GTI? Cesar called on Pablo Trophy buckets, which he had Tobias to do the swap. The VR6 upholstered in blue vinyl and engine was left pretty stock — Why hop* up gray/white cloth. Awesome, like it really needed any more the existing Cesar. So what was next? power — except for a 3-inch 78hp fourNothing. For two solid years! custom Borla exhaust system. banger when All of us know that projects Pablo also rewired the swap. you can stuff are an ebb and flow deal: If When stock, an ’82 Rabbit in a 220hp you’re not feeling it, don’t force Pickup weighed roughly 1,900 2.8-liter VR6 it. But when it hits, it hits hard. pounds, so you can imagine from a 2004 After the car sat in stasis for that this truck’s power-toGTI? 730 days, Cesar got inspired weight ratio is pretty insane! *(yes, we said hop) and enlisted a couple of buddies It’s the true definition of a to install an Air Lift Perforstreet sleeper. mance air bag and strut system with 3P The bodywork on this ride is just as management to help give it a street-worthy clean as the engine swap. Castro’s Garage stance. In the rear Cesar’s crew used Air made sure every panel of the Rabbit was Life Performance bags along with some super smooth and clean before spraying MK6 modifications. multiple coats of silver paint. After many The next big step was to upgrade the hours of wet sanding, the paint looked as power output. Why hop up the existing deep as the ocean.

the build sPECS

EXTERIOR: Rear Safari window, wood pickup bed, small MX bumpers.

Bodywork and paint by Castro’s Garage.

CHASSIS: Air Lift Performance air-ride suspension. 16" BBS 61 16x6.5 wheels powder coated blue. Federal 165/40/16 radial tires.

ENGINE: Original 1.6-liter 4-cylinder stock motor swapped for a 2005 GTI 2.8-liter VW6 24-valve motor by Pablo Tobias, Houston, Texas. Carbon-fiber cold-air kit.

EXHAUST: Custom 3" exhaust system with Borla mufflers.  The engineers at VW surely had no idea that someone would stuff a VR6 into a Rabbit pickup 30-plus years down the line. Pablo Tobias did an amazing job shoehorning this 220hp monster into the engine bay.

 Cesar Egg built the amazing wood-slat bed. It makes a nice home for the Air Lift Performance air-ride tanks and lines.

Check out the rear Safari window Cesar made.

 Blue powder coated 16” BBS 61 16x6.5 rims keep this rad ride off the pavement.

They’re wrapped in Federal 165/40/16 radials.

The exterior also features Hella DE projector headlights, smaller MX bumpers all the way around, and a wooden truck bed by Cesar Egg. The bed looks awesome with the wooden floor and chrome air ride suspension tanks. You really must look at all the details this trick truck features!

Speaking of features, one of the coolest ones on this Rabbit is the Safari rear window. Cesar wanted something different, something that would really be a wow factor, and he got it!

The interior followed the color of the reupholstered Recaro seats, with Castro’s Upholstery rocking the blue vinyl and gray/ white cloth color scheme. Cesar added a wood and leather-wrapped BBS steering wheel, Nardi shift knob, 3P air ride management switches, and Porsche door handles.

A cool pickup like this can’t rely on the stock sound system to get by. Cesar decided to handle the sound upgrades himself. A Pioneer single-DIN head unit sends signals to a Hifonics Rockhill 600-watt amplifier, which blasts the the JL Audio speakers and DB Drive subwoofers.

Cesar replaced the stock wheels with a set of BBS 61 16x6.5 rims. They were originally gold, so Cesar had them powdered coated blue to offset the silver paint. A set of Federal 165/40/16 radial tires keeps the rims off the ground.

Cesar’s ride is really a sight to behold. If you’re out cruising the streets of Arlington, Texas and an ’82 silver Rabbit pickup pulls up, you’d be wise to not try and race it! Just giver Cesar a friendly wave and a nod of respect for this wolf in Rabbit’s clothing.

That’s all, folks!

INTERIOR: Upholstery by Castro’s Upholstery. Recaro Trophy bucket seats in blue vinyl with gray and white cloth.

3P air-ride management gauges and switches. Pioneer head unit, Hifonics Rockhill 600-watt amplifier, JL Audio speakers, DB Drive subwoofer. BBS steering wheel, Nardi shift knob, Porsche door handles.

 The interior is just as sweet as the exterior. Cesar added a wood/leatherwrapped BBS steering wheel, Nardi shift knob, Pioneer head unit, 3P airmanagement switches and gauges, and Porsche door handles.

 Recaro seats are always a nice touch, and these Trophy buckets look awesome with their blue vinyl and gray/white cloth upholstery. Note the custom enclosure housing the DB Drive subwoofers.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 61

Vegas is crazy every weekend, but add several hundred VWs and it really gets off the chain!

Story and photography by DG Leadbetter

L

as Vegas, Nevada is one of those destinations that’s on everyInside the Orleans was a display of VWs: George Tdagrinos’ one’s bucket list. And with good reason: There’s so much to see Type II from the premiere issue of VW Trends magazine was on and do, it’s a great way to get away and escape the day-to-day preshand, as was Future Shock, a tricked-out custom Type III from sure of everyday life. I mean, the biggest decision you must make back in the day (look for a feature on this amazing ride in an upis am I going to get the prime rib special coming issue). before or after I go see Blue Man Group?

The show was bustling with activity Well, our good friend Bill Tdagrinos all day, as people were checking out all from the Let’s Talk Dubs podcast put on the cars as well as purusing the vendor one of the coolest and downright fun area. The car show contestants weren’t events around, and it just so happens that vying for some cheap plaque and a pat it’s held smack dab in the middle of Las on the back; they were all clamoring for Vegas! The fun started on Friday night, the honor of carrying home one of the with an all-VW cruise down the Vegas custom handmade show trophies. strip. It was a sight to behold: all kinds of The awards were handed out around Volkswagens, from Buses to Bugs, Type 2:30 p.m., but the day was far from over!

IIIs to Things, and air- and water-cooled The big Poker Run happened that evealike taking over the roadway under all ning. Special limited-edition T-shirts that neon! There was a meet and greet afand poker chips were made for the occaterwards for people to hang out, admire sion. For those of you not familiar with The license plate says it all: One Crazy Weekend is all about the V Dub Life!

VWs and just chill before the big event a Poker Run, the object is to drive your the next day.

VW to multiple stops, choosing a ranEarly Saturday morning, the bustle began at the Orleans Hotel dom card at each stop to create the best poker hand you can. Think and Casino, as the parking lot became ground zero for the car of it like five-card stud on wheels. The person with the best hand at show. Tons of Volkswagens, vendors, and spectators descended the end of the run walked away with $1,500. Not a bad payday for a on the parking lot and made it home for the day. And let me tell couple of pit stops! you, the VWs kept coming in! A lot of people who were going into All in all, the Let’s Talk Dubs One Crazy Weekend was a rethe casino to gamble took a detour through the car show and were sounding success. If you couldn’t make it this year, make sure you amazed at the HUGE ensemble of vintage and custom Volkswamake plans to hit the next one. It’s the best bet in Vegas! gens on display.

62 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

BEST OF SHOW: James Pooley, ’60 Double Cab TOP 20: David S., ’69 ragtop Bug (club: Rollerz) Jesse Quintero, ’53 3-fold (club: Vocho Classic) Sal, ’64 VW (club: Rolling Dream) Sean Berry, ’59 Beetle Davis Heil, ’58 Kombi Brent, ’64 Bus Leon Symanski, ’69 Bus Robert T. Lee, ’59 Ghia Todd Grey, ’66 Beetle Aaron Oldenburg, ’61 ragtop Toan Nguyen, ’58 ragtop John Villagomez, ’67 Beetle Eric Wheaton, ’66 Beetle Mark and Zoe, ’56 Beetle Justin Heath, ’64 Notchback Dave Valles, ’91 GTI Terry Reid, ’66 Beetle Gabriel S., ’59 ragtop Dan Wilson, ’61 Baja V* turbo Mike Hell, ’68 Beetle

Several VWs were on display inside the casino. Some of you may remember the Quicksand Bus from our premiere issue, while savvy longtime readers will recognize Future Shock, the awesome full-custom Type III that graced the cover of VWT in June 1987.

James P. from Las Vegas took home top honors, nabbing Best of Show with his beautiful ’60 Double Cab.

Trip Jacks was the hand to beat in the Poker Run. One person walked away with $1,500!

Ross Wulf was in the house, showing off all of their awesome products.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 63

Check out this beautiful Squareback. No chrome here … it’s all about the blackout!

Bill and the Let’s Talk Dubs crew kept busy selling T-shirts, raffling prizes, and generally just making sure the trains ran on time.

There was no shortage of good looking VWs at the show.

There was something for everyone at One Crazy Weekend. Check out Luis Gonzales’ graffiti-covered ’72 lowrider Bus.

Dam Volks was there, showing off the engine parts and other products they sell.

Really great people!

Words cannot describe Keir Santos’ amazing ’55 Bug! Check out that interior.

Aaron Oldenburg brought out his 40hp Judson-supercharged ’60 ragtop Bug! Quite the looker!

64 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

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VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 65

VW ARCHIVES

H I S T O RY L E S SO N

100 TO ONE The stubby, plucky little VW trucklet you may not know much about

by Jason Torchinsky

T

he first actual Volkswagen was the Type 2 Transporter. I know that sounds weird, with the din of over 20 million Beetles revving in protest, but think about it: The Beetle was developed before there really was a Volkswagen company, and it started life with some pretty miserable, abusive parents, Nazi Germany and the Strength-through-Joy (KdF) organization. It wasn’t until well after the war that Volkswagen the company was actually formed, and the company’s first child was the Type 2, conceived and developed as a purely postwar VW-the-company product.

Of course, the idea of adapting the fundamental KdF/VW platform to hauling objects instead of people wasn’t new. Even before Ben Pon came to visit the factory on that fateful day in 1947 and, inspired by the Plattenwagen factory stuff-haulers — crude, half reverse-pickup, half knockoff forklift — to quickly sketch what would become the Type 2, VW trucks and vans had already been built.

66 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

It’s these that I’d like to focus on, specifically the VW trucks and vans made during the period when the factory was being run

by Major Ivan Hirst, the Briton in charge of the Allied Control Commission that was running the Wolfsburg factory after the war. And, even more specifically, I’d like to focus on the weirdest one of them all, the Type 100.

I think it’s a safe bet that the majority

of people who are reading this willingly (if you’re reading under duress, my apologies, it’ll be over soon) have seen, either in one of the many, many coffee table books about Volkswagen or deep into some internet image search, this strange little truck.

It’s stunted and that peculiar mix of adorable and ugly that keeps the pug-breeding industry alive. It’s confusing and fascinating and a genuine puzzle. It’s known as the Type 100, and it’s a truck, of sorts, though it’s also referred to as a tractor, sometimes, or as its called in German, hilariously, a zugmaschinen.

Zugmaschinen is usually used to refer to tractor-trailer type trucks, trucks designed to pull unpowered trailers of all sorts — box-type, flatbeds, agricultural equipment, whatever. This use could explain the strange design of the Type 100, sort of, especially if you It’s stunted just try and ignore and that the fact that it has peculiar mix an actual, albeit of adorable tiny, pickup bed. and ugly that Let’s take a keeps the crack at describing pug-breeding the Type 100: It’s a industry KdF/Beetle basic alive. It’s body, at least up confusing and to the A-pillars, fascinating built on a Kübelwaand a genuine gen chassis. That puzzle. It’s the chassis is pretty Type 100. dramatically shortened, in a sort of a premonition of future Myers Manx-style dune buggies, with at least a foot chopped out between the rear fender and the door.

It’s shortened enough that the door had to be reworked from the normal Beetle by having an arc cut out to accomodate the rear fender. Also, the door window was modified to be in two sections — there’s a narrow, fixed window to the rear of the door, and the roll-down window glass has been narrowed to fit in the section of the door in front of the fender.

I’ve read some references to the Type 100 that suggest this is a sliding window, but inspection of the few available pictures suggests that no, it’s a narrow roll-down window, mostly because there would be nowhere to slide window glass horizontally.

The Type 100 has the early KdF banana-bumper guard-style bumper,

VW ARCHIVES

with the exposed single horn, along with Kübel-style semaphore indicators mounted just ahead of the A-pillar, since their usual spot in the B-pillar is absent here.

The rear of the trucklet, below the box of the bed, appears to be the same sort of cylindrical, vented body panel used on the Type 83 KdF-style box trucks/vans, of which around 275 were built in late 1945.

There were also about 219 similar trucks built using Kübelwagen bodies, called the Type 28, but the presses for Kübel bodies were at another factory, AmiBudd. So once the British ran out of Kübel body parts, they moved to making Beetle bodies for all their unholy truck experimentation.

This type of Beetle-with-a-box-onits-back truck is the closest thing to the oddball Type 100, as it’s a similar sort of Beetle-body-on-a-Kübel-chassis truck, with the body being cut behind the door to accomodate a corrugated box cargo compartment, and the engine housed below it. The Type 83 (and the pickup truck variants, the Types 81 and 88) were built on full-length chassis, and as a result had much longer, more useful load areas.

These trucks are easy to understand; they were pressed into service at the factory itself, and also sent out into the world to deliver mail or act as ambulances. They were just the quickest trucks that the factory could improvise, and they worked as the first commercial vehicles built by Wolfsburg after the war, in that strange limbo period of British control of the factory.

In many ways, these odd centaurs were the Type 2’s real ancestors, or at least

VW ARCHIVES

 The Type 100 used a KdF/Beetle body, at least up to the A-pillars, built on a dramatically shortened Kübelwagen chassis. The doors had to be reworked to accomodate the arc of the rear fenders.

The side window was modified into two sections: one fixed, one moveable.

 Here’s a view of the Type 100’s fairly tiny pickup bed. Note the tow hitch.

proofs-of-concept that showed the basic VW mechanicals, at least, were capable of commercial use.

The inherently limited design restrictions of the trucks—adapting a rear-engine design to a pickup truck or van isn’t easy unless you’re considering how to do it from the very start—also likely demonstrated where the problems were, which made Ben Pons’ eventual box-like sketch a much more attractive alternative.

But let’s get back to our weird Type 100 friend. I’ve not been able to find out how many of these zuggers were built, though I suspect it can’t be more than a handful.

Pictures show a prominent tow ball at the rear, suggesting that these were in fact used to pull trailers — maybe around the tight VW ARCHIVES

confines of the factory, airport-tug style?

That would sort of explain the shrunken proportions. A little trailer hauler that also had a decent amount of load space for tools or whatever would likely have been a useful tool in a factory, which could be what these were. Reports also suggest both the British and French militaries used them as tractors/tugs as well.

The Type 100 was sort of part Plattenwagen ancestor, part nimble runabout that could be parked in the tiniest of nooks, or maybe even shoved onto a freight elevator. I’m not sure anyone is exactly certain anymore, but I’m just happy that this funny little Anglo-Teutonic gnome of a truck exists. It’s a peculiar little footnote that has quietly delighted me for years.

RONAN GLON/AUTOBLOG

 Type 100 family relations: At left, a Type 83. This was a Beetle-body-on-a-Kübelchassis truck, with the engine housed below a boxed cargo compartment. At right, the Plattenwagen, a Wolfsburg factory parts-hauling contraption based on a Beetle chassis.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 67

HALF HARD CORE PINT Stacy Dudley’s stepside short Bus proves big things can come in small packages

By DG Leadbetter • Photos by Taylor Amaral and Charles Rushforth

T

hink back to when you got your first car. Go ahead and tell me as soon as those keys were in your hand your next thought wasn’t, “Okay, what can I do to make this thing cool?” Didn’t matter if it was tires and wheels, a new stereo, or something to make it go faster, the customization bug is hard to shake.

68 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

Stacy Dudley is one of those guys. He’s always wanted a shortened VW Bus. He found and bought a shortened 1960 Single Cab Transporter on thesamba.com. It wasn’t actually the Bus he wanted, but it was close enough. And besides, it had already been shortened so most of the heavy lifting was already done (or so he thought).

After owning the shorty Single Cab for a little over a year, Stacy wanted to turn it into a stepside pickup. He thought an old ’50s or ’60s style stepside bed would look perfect. While searching photos of classic pickups for inspiration, Stacy realized front fenders from a Beetle would make perfect rear fenders for the truck bed. The next step was to figure out how to make it happen. Originally, he thought, “I’m going to find a set of fenders and learn how to weld.”

Stacy found some fenders on Craigslist belonging to Brock Tillman of Tavares, Florida. Here’s where things get interesting. Brock just happens to be a master metal fabricator, building custom trikes out of old Beetles. Brock showed Stacy some of the awesome projects he had done, so Stacy asked if he would be interested in building the bed for the shorty. Brock said he had always wanted to build a shorty Bus. The deal was struck for Brock to finish the project, as long as Stacy gave him free reign to incorporate his ideas into the build.

Stacy was glad. If they hadn’t come to an agreement, he’d still be welding on it today, or it would be sitting out back of his house slowly rusting away.

Stacy’s non-negotiables: He wanted it to look like a classic pickup bed, and he had a couple of other custom ideas. The rest was up to Brock. After the handshake, it was time to get down to business.

The cab and lower inner valance were in pretty rough shape, so after completing the bed, it was time to turn attention to the front. The Type II had been in an accident (that’s why it had been shortened), and Brock had to cut out a large section of the cab behind the driver’s side and weld in new metal. In the process he welded a roll bar into the double wall behind the seats, filled with expanding marine foam for added rigidity. The driver’s side door jamb and frame were completely rebuilt because the previous owner had only spot welded them together when shortening the Bus. Brock convinced Stacy to let him build a custom front bumper to match the truck bed. Stacy reluctantly agreed, really wanting to go with the VW overrider bumper look. The end result looks amazing! And Stacy’s glad he took Brock’s advice.

“Originally, I did not want to paint it,” Stacy says. “I wanted to clear-coat the metal and turn it into a rat rod, because it looked like an angry little munchkin that would eat your face off. Both my wife and Brock beat me up pretty bad, so I had no other choice than to see the project all the way through. I gave in and decided it would have a classic Volkswagen look.”

Brock made sure all the bodywork was good to go before handing it off to David Kent at Wheeler’s Paint & Body Shop in Tavares, Florida. David put numerous coats of PPG Seafoam Green and Casablanca White on the pristine sheet metal. The two-tone paint and stock chrome really lend themselves to the theme of this Type II. The dashboard had been cut up by a previous owner, so Brock drew up a design for a custom dash. The steering wheel was original to the vehicle, so they hacked it up, welded the VW logo into it, and wired up some LEDs. Stacy enlisted his friend Pierre Girard to help handcraft the birdseye maple and walnut wood for the steering wheel, as well as custom arm rests and door panels (which feature an LED lighting system). The inlays for the steering wheel

 The tailgate also serves as the deck lid for the 1600cc motor. Everything about this shorty is a class act.  Custom-made door panels, custom-built exhaust stacks, and… Wait, are those Beetle fenders?

 and  Not only is the bed completely custom fabricated, it’s also detailed to the max! Check out the wood slats, gas filler and scooter rack. Kudos to Brock Tillman for hitting this out of the park.

 One of Stacy’s non-negotiables was that he wanted a classic pickup bed out back. Brock Tillman delivered! Note the louvered tailgate and the wood stakes.

 Here’s a look at the 6.5hp Polini Scooterino that Stacy keeps in the shorty’s bed.

 Stacy added some sweet LED accents to the door panels, including a lit VW emblem.  The steering wheel got in on the LED action, too.

70 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

were milled on Stacy’s desktop PCB milling machine. Pierre took apart the plastic horn button and redrew it in his CAM software, then milled a new aluminum one his CNC machine.

The original Type II bench seat was reupholstered at Lane Dickey Upholstery in Longwood, Florida. Stacy designed, built, and upholstered the door, kick, and headliner using TMI 324 Como Green and 330 Phosphor Vintage Vinyl and TMI 44 Off-White perforated vinyl for the headliner. JBugs three-point lap and shoulder harnesses keep all the passengers secure.

The dash had custom gauge pods, so a set of VDO Royale temperature, voltmeter, and oil pressure gauges were added, as well as a Bosch tachometer. Stacy did all the wiring on the VW, custom building harnesses for the dash gauges and additional switches and lighting. Cruising tunes are provided by a RetroSound Hermosa radio with JL Audio C2-650x speakers.

Dennis at Air Cooled Haus in Longwood, Florida rebuilt the 1600cc dual-port long block. Stacy reassembled the motor and color matched the tins before handing it off to Air Cooled Haus for a dial-in and tuneup. It features a single 34 Pict 3 carb, MST serpentine belt system, and Compu-Fire 11100 DIS-IX electronic ignition, as well as a Brock-built custom header exhaust with re-purposed aftermarket Corvette side pipes for the exhaust stacks.

Of course, you can’t just have stock tires and wheels on a ride this cool. A set of Cragar Keystone Klassic 15x10 rims sporting Cooper Cobra G/T rubber gives this Transporter some street attitude. An AC Industries Wide 5 front disc brake conversion kit from SoCal Imports helps this shorty come to a stop.

Last but not least Stacy built a custom matching Hot Wheels vehicle for the dash.

He added a 6.5hp Polini Scooterino in the back, so if he runs out of gas, he’ll have backup transportation! The VW had to have a name, so Stacy dubbed it the Volkswagen BT, after Brock Tillman.

A project like this takes a lot of help from a lot of people, and Stacy sends special thanks to Triangle Auto Parts, Air Cooled Haus, JBUGS, Wagen Werks, and especially the great folks at California Import Parts Ltd., who spent a lot of time on the phone with him during the build.

Stacy welded a VW logo into the stock steering wheel. He enlisted the help of his friend Pierre Girard to handcraft the birdseye maple and walnut wood for the wheel.

The custom dash sports VDO Royale gauges. That custom Hot Wheels vehicle looks oddly familiar…

Stacy and his wife Marie love taking the shorty out and about. It turns heads wherever it goes, and filling it up with gas takes a little longer than normal, as Stacy is always fielding questions from admiring onlookers.

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 71

TECH

Bernie Bergmann with one of his latest creations: a 2387cc Type 4 he built for Baltazar Calventas of Kaneohe, Hawaii.

SPHERICAL SOLUTION

Bergmann’s upgrade doesn’t look much different than the original; only the aluminum bearing housing gives it away.

Improved dual-carb control is possible with this easy-to-install modification Story and photography by Bruce Simurda

S

ince the first VW rolled off the showoptimum performance. room floor, people have been looking for Kits are available for hex-bar linkages ways to improve it. Today, we’re improving from EMPI and CB Performance. Instalthe improvements! lation in the EMPI linkage requires only One troublesome area is the hex-bar that the bushings in the carb top mounting linkage on dual Weber 40-44 IDFs and Del- plates be replaced with the new bearings lorto carbs. Over time, the contact points and housings, and that the ball-nose bolts where the two ball-nose bolts ride on the be replaced with modified units. The kit inside of the hex-bar wear, allowing unfor CB linkage additionally requires the wanted movement. Grab your hex bar next hex bar to be drilled and tapped to accept time you’re in the garage and move it front new modified ball-nose bolts. On either kit, to back to see if you feel play between it and the hex bar needs to be shortened approxthe ball-nose bolt. This wear not only efimately 5/8-inch on each side due to the fects how the linkage opens and closes your width of the new bearings. (Test to detercarbs, but according to Bernie Bergmann mine the proper length before cutting.) of Bergmann VW Engine Specialist, it also For engines running a 911-style fan makes them impossible housing, Bergmann to sync. offers an adapter plate Bernie Bergmann Bergmann has dekit for the CB-style VW Engine Specialist veloped a solution that linkage and new PO Box 35, Homeland, CA 92548 provides smooth, pretop plates for EMPI (951) 325-2576 cise throttle action for systems. Both feature bergmannvw.net your existing linkage. upgraded spherical This upgrade machines bearings and move the the bolts’ ball-ends into shafts which slip crossbar forward to clear the fan housing. into lubricated spherical bearings for a solid Complete upgraded EMPI-style linkages contact point that will never wear out. The kits are also available. bearings are held in place with housings deBy removing your linkage play you can signed to install easily into the original carb get smoother, more accurate dual-carb top plates. They allow for any misalignment action. And while that might not solve all of the mounting brackets on the carbs, and your carb-related issues, you’ll have a much eliminate play at the pivot point to ensure more solid starting point.

72 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

At the bottom is the original EMPI ballnose bolt; above it is the Bergmann version. You can see how the new bolt was modified to fit snugly into the spherical bearing.

The key to the conversion is this special housing that holds the bearing onto the carburetor bracket. The new contact surface is much larger than the ball.

Here’s the spherical bearing kit installed on a CB linkage. These bearings will allow for mismatch in the linkage mounting points with no bind.

SUBSCRIPTIONS! T-SHIRTS! STICKERS! PATCHES! BACK ISSUES! (OKAY, THAT’S ENOUGH EXCLAMATION POINTS.)

IT’S ALL WAITING FOR YOU AT: VWTRENDSMAGAZINE.COM

It’s necessary to drill and tap the end of the CB hex bar to accept the new bolt.

Both CB and EMPI styles require the hexbar ends to be trimmed to allow for the bearing housing.

ADVERTISERS INDEX The EMPI version of the kit is similar, but the two do not interchange. The most noticeable difference is the way the housing attaches to the carb top plate.

AC Silkscreen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 79 chris@acsilkscreen.com Bernie Bergmann VW . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 7 bergmannvw.net Bill & Steve’s Foreign Auto . . . . . . pg. 72 billandsteves.com Buswerx . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 7 @buswerx California Import Parts .. pg. 1, bk. cover CIP1.com

New nose bolts screw right onto the EMPI hex bar without modification. The large hex allows for tightening the lock bolt; the CB version uses wrench slots machined into the back of the bolt head.

CB Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 31 cbperformance.com For those running a 911-style fan, this adapter for the CB linkage moves the hex bar forward to clear the housing.

Gabriel Iglesias . . . . . . . . inside bk. cover fluffyguy.com Hayburner Magazine . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 37 hayburner.co.uk Let’s Talk Dubs Podcast . . . . . . . . . . pg. 2 letstalkdubs.com Mid America Motorworks . . . . . . pg. 51 mamotorworks.com ProVolks Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 7 provolksranch.business.site

The assembled EMPI linkage shows the kit’s simplicity: Just take the original bushing out of the mounting plate and press the new bearing housing in.

Using the EMPI linkage on a 911-style housing is a bit more complicated, but Bergmann makes new top plates to get the job done. The kit includes everything you see here.

MORE!

Sawtooth Aircooled . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 65 facebook.com/Sawtoothaircooled Strictly Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 7 strictlyforeign.com

Bill & Steve’s

For Your VW Part Needs

This is the complete CB dual carb linkage modification kit. The inside of the bearing should be greased before the new bolt and spring are inserted.

While snooping around Bernie’s shop, we noticed his throttle return spring system.

Unlike others that pull from the top and don’t keep tension on the throttle-shaft arm at idle, this kit places the spring horizontally, with more even tension throughout its movement. Great idea to help keep the butterflies closed at idle!

NEW & USED PARTS FOR YOUR VW AIR COOLED SPECIALISTS 36 YEARS IN BUSINESS! 12121 Lakewood Blvd.

Downey, CA 90242 877-VWRESTO www.billandsteves.com Tues-Fri 10-6, Sat 10-5, Sun 10-3 PST

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 73

THE VW TRENDS INTERVIEW:

VWT: I can’t tell you how excited I am to have Gabriel Iglesias in the VW Trends interview chair; this is so much fun…

GI: That’s right. Gabriel Iglesias: Refrigerator Aficionado. We all have our skills and techniques, and things we’re good at.

VWT: I know you’re in the middle of your world tour, so thank you for coming and hanging out with VW Trends magazine and of course our audience watching on YouTube, or on the Internets somewhere…

GI: It’s there … it’s out there.

VWT: So let’s get right to it. First and foremost, do you like your sandwiches with the crust cut off or the crust on?

GI: It depends. If we’re going peanut butter and jelly, crust off. But if we’re talking like a traditional sandwich like a ham and cheese, bacon, whatever, crust on.

VWT: What was your first VW experience?

GI: How did you know it was a VW? My brother owned a Rambler …

VWT: (laughs) We’re a family magazine.

So tell us the 4-1-1.

GI: Well, my first Volkswagen was a 1968 Transporter. It was two-tone originally, but when I had it, it had about eight different shades of bondo and primer… and duct tape.

I mean, come on, you can fix a car with duct tape. That car … I spent half the time driving it and the other half pushing it.

VWT: I had to do the same with my first VW… When I’d come to a stop sign, I had to keep it revved so it wouldn’t die.

GI: Yep, and you learn your lessons. Like for example, I learned you’re not supposed to fill up the tank on an old Bus because it’s got all that rust that floats up and clogs everything.

VWT: See? I just learned a helpful tip.

GI: I was all excited — first of all that I could fill up the tank. I think both the car and myself were like, “Hey, what’s going on here?” And I wanted to take it down to Huntington Beach, (but) it stopped running. So I called my buddy to come get me, and he brings this can of whatever and says, “Yeah man, I’m going to put this in the carburetor and … Wow, your thing’s dirty!”

I mean, I’m 17; I don’t know what’s going on. All I know is he pulls out this can with a straw attached to it and now my car’s turning on. You would think I’d have learned my lesson, but I did not. But I still love that car.

VWT: Is your love of VW Busses because your first car was a Bus? GI: Yeah, I think it’s one of those things that’s real nostalgic to most, but to me,

 “My first Volkswagen was a 1968 Transporter. … When I had it, it had about eight different shades of bondo and primer… and duct tape.”

 “Stock does look very cool if that’s your thing, but man, it looks so much cooler with chrome… You lower it, it’s more fun to drive, it goes faster.”

 “Jay Leno was right. Those Busses are Bitcoin on wheels! I mean, I haven’t sold any… I’m not in it to sell them. I love them, so I keep them.”

GABRIEL “FLUFFY” IGLESIAS W

By Dan Leadbetter

ithout question, the hottest comedian on the planet right now is Gabriel Iglesias. Better known as “Fluffy” — which stems from a joke he told about not being fat, “I’m Fluffy” — Gabriel has dominated the comedy scene around the world! He’s also one of the most watched comedians on YouTube, with almost a BILLION views, and he has over 25 million fans across social media platforms. Gabriel has also had the honor of being one of a handful of comics to headline and sell out Madison Square Garden in New York, Staples Center in Los Angeles, and Sydney Opera House in Australia, and he will have the honor of being the ONLY comic to play Dodger Stadium in 2022! As you read this, he’s on his 2021-22 World Tour, which ends in July.

So why all the hubbub about a world-renowned comic in a VW magazine? Well, you should know that Gabriel has one of, if not THE best collection of VW Busses in the world. In his topsecret SoCal compound, Gabriel houses a collection of Type IIs that tops well over 3 million dollars’ worth of restored and modified German metal (look for our feature of Gabriel’s collection elsewhere in this issue).

While we were there, Gabriel was generous enough to sit down and have a chat about his collection, his love of VWs, life on the road, and tons more. There was so much to talk about that we couldn’t fit it all in the magazine, so check out the whole interview over on our YouTube page. So, let’s get down to it and hear from the man himself. Ladies and gentlemen, Gabriel Iglesias!

74 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

it was my first car. I had just bought my then-girlfriend’s first car for her, and I was all excited and said, “Wow, I should see if I can get my first car.” Clearly, I couldn’t find the original one. It was probably rusting away in a garage somewhere. But I found one that’s very similar. The guys said, “Well, if you want anything else, just let us know.” And I said, “Well, if you see something you’d think I’d like, you let ME know!” And one turned into two, turned into 30 … So now were here.

VWT: And it’s not just Busses; you do have a couple Bugs out there.

GI: Yeah, I’ve got a couple Bugs out there, and I do have a low-light Ghia. [Asks his mechanic: What is it? A 1960?] It’s a 1959.

(Laughs) ‘What a douche … He doesn’t even know the years of his cars. He’s just got money, and he spends it, and has no fucking clue.’ You can beep that out.

VWT: What’s your favorite Bus out there?

GI: I love driving the ’68, but I also love the lowered one. Henry Marchano — who’s over here in the corner — he doesn’t like being on camera, because he’s got warrants.

He was very much into keeping it pure and keeping everything as original as possible.

But we took a chance and started playing with chrome and different colors. Next thing you know, we’re lowering Busses; we’re making up colors...

VWT: Do you prefer stock or do you like something like a Resto-Custom look?

GI: Stock does look very cool if that’s your thing, but man, it looks so much cooler with chrome… You know, you lower it, it’s more fun to drive, it goes faster. It’s not the Volkswagen I remember. All these Busses can definitely keep up on the freeway. And that was a big problem. With that original ’68, that was a problem. The power that I had, I couldn’t do a hill. I had to AVOID hills!

And I live in a city called Signal Hill. Kinda makes you wonder…

VWT: That’s the thing about getting a Volkswagen, or any car for that matter. I can only take stock for just a short period of time and then I’ve gotta do something to it. … It’s almost a sickness.

GI: And you always say, “I’m not gonna change it; I’m going top keep it as original as possible.” I mean the original stereo looks good in there, but if you want to hear your jams, what are you going to do? Put on some AM and listen to KFI [talk radio] or

the news? Fortunately, there’s companies that created stereos with the retro look, but modern with all the USB ports, and power.

VWT: So tell me about your rise to fame.

You get the wherewithal to buy all the cool stuff you’ve wanted. Which was the very first Bus you bought?

GI: Well, it’s been painted; it’s the bus I call the Ironman. It basically has the Cleveland Browns colors on it … or Ironman colors.

VWT: It’s beautiful.

GI: That started out as a Pistachio Green.

Like when you go to Rite Aid and get an ice cream? It was basically a Mint Chip. Not the coolest color. But it was nice; it was a clean Bus. It had the original engine in it and it ran. So now it’s got a little more kick.

It’s pretty. And we lowered it.

VWT: Nice. So, the Iron Man Bus. Obviously, you’re a Marvel fan, as denoted by your shirt, and you’ve got the Marvel Corner out there with all kinds of cool stuff.

GI: Yes. I’m not about the DC life, I’m all about the Marvel.

VWT: We won’t talk about any Batman stuff…

GI: He’s creepy.

VWT: (laughs) He’s creepy, yes. So who’s your favorite superhero?

GI: Not Batman.

VWT: Okay, so not Batman. Ironman?

GI: Ironman.

VWT: Okay, why?

GI: He’s just cool, and everybody knows who he is. He doesn’t hide. Most superheroes have their secret identity, and he’s just like, “Yeah, this is who I am and here’s my address…”

VWT: Hey, I’m Tony Stark…

GI: Yeah, that’s it.

VWT: So did you paint that Bus specifically with those colors to mimic Ironman?

GI: I think we just called it that after we saw it. We were trying to play with some colors we hadn’t seen before: How can we change it, make it look different, and make it look cool, and eye-catching? That car gets looks. On top of being a beautiful Bus, those colors and all the chrome, it just…

VWT: It pops.

GI: Yeah.

VWT: You just got a camper.

GI: Yes. VWT: Give me the story on that. I heard it came from Europe.

GI: No, it actually came from California.

It’s a California camper that was bought by someone and was shipped to Germany. We bought it, so it was sent from Germany back to California. We were having some issues with the title because I didn’t know it was salvaged.

VWT: Oh, it was a salvage title?

GI: Yeah, it was a salvage title. I don’t think it is now, and I don’t know if I’m allowed to even say that, but I’m not trying to sell it.

VWT: Well, we won’t tell anyone.

GI: I’m not trying to sell it, so I don’t even care. At this point, all those Busses have been modified so much…

VWT: I mean, you can cut out the VIN from another pan and weld it in.

GI: That’s the hustle right there, people…

VWT: Not that I’m advocating that by any means, kids, so don’t do that at home! Let’s talk a little bit about the fact that you’re in the middle of a world tour…

GI: First of all, let me just say that I’m happy to be back touring. We just finished one month of the tour, and hopefully, they’ll let us continue touring.

VWT: How have the audiences been?

GI: Happy. Happy, excited — it’s a different level of excitement. Every night feels like a comedy special. People are like, “Wow, we can’t believe we’re out!” My show is a lot of people’s first time out, and you can tell: They’re not acting right. They’re getting drunk, being stupid (laughs). I guarantee you there are going to be a lot of pregnancies after this weekend.

VWT: Really?

GI: Oh yeah, I saw a lot of couples out there.

They weren’t looking at me, they were like, (looking at each other) Yeah … yeah …

VWT: Well, if there’s a huge influx of kids named Gabriel, then you’ll know. So where do you go after this?

GI: We’re home for a few days, then we’re headed to the East Coast.

VWT: I can imagine it takes people to put on your show; you must have a whole team.

Do you travel by bus, plane, a little of both?

GI: We fly out to a tour bus, then the tour bus takes us around to each location.

VWT: So it’s not the camper out there.

GI: No, we don’t load up in the camper.

VWT: I mean, you could.

GI: I could probably get pretty far in it.

VWT: Let’s talk about your Netflix show.

GI: Mr. Iglesias…

VWT: Mr. Iglesias, which is on Netflix now,

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 75

so you can all go watch it…

GI: You can stream it!

VWT: You can binge watch it, if you like.

GI: Season one and season two … 22 episodes.

VWT: So you’ve got THE Bus from the show out there.

GI: Yes, you know, it was one of things where we said, “What kind of vehicle is a school teacher going to be driving?” And they said, well Gabe loves his Volkswagen Busses, but here’s the thing, the Ironman Bus probably isn’t a Bus that a school teacher would drive or even have on a teacher’s salary. So bump it up a couple of years, and the 1975 was very believable.

VWT: I think I had a couple teachers in high school that drove VW Busses. So that Bus, you swapped out the motor and put in a Subaru…

GI: So I know we’re going to get some phone calls and some haters…

VWT: Don’t hate!

GI: Let me explain: It was brought to my attention years ago that you could put a Subaru engine in a Bus. But I was like, No, don’t like that idea. It took a while to warm up to it, you know? Just like it took a while for Henry to get used to chrome. And now he’s got his “chrome guy.” When you’ve got a chrome guy…

VWT: You’ve made it…

GI: Yeah, you’re doing big things. So we talked about the whole Subaru thing, and I was like, yes/no. The idea came back when my vet, they guy who works on my doggies, he bought a Bus and he put a Subaru in it.

And he was like, “Hey man, I know you’ve got VW Busses; let me tell you about this Subaru…” And I was like, groan … I didn’t want to hear it. But then, he let me see it, and feel it… And I was like, WOW! And he was like, I know a guy… You know, anytime you hear, “I know a guy” you have to go for it. I was like, can I know the guy too? So it took the guy about three or four months; he did it in his spare time. But man, that Bus out there: It’s not a Volkswagen; it’s quiet! I always feel like I’m stalled out. I get to the light and I don’t hear it. You get so used to the vibration and you feel it in your hand when you’re shifting, you know, you feel it. It doesn’t have any of that. It’s a very modern feel. It’s very quiet. You can have a conversation in the car!

VWT: But isn’t that part of Volkswagens in general? They have so much character

76 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

and personality. It’s like they are their own person. They’re quirky…

GI: All of those Busses have their own quirks. You’d think being that they are the same vehicle, it would be the same.

But each one is different. Each one has its own way it steers, the way it feels, the way it shifts. There are some that have a lot of play, some that are tight. Some of the employees here are like, “I know how to drive the ’68 and the ’59, but I haven’t mastered the ’55.” Because all the Busses are different.

VWT: It’s almost like you need a cheat sheet…

GI: Yeah, for example, the Wolfsburg Bus I have out there, you have to come to a complete stop before you put it in first gear. If you try and put it in first gear if there’s ANY motion … (makes grinding gear noises). So when you don’t hear anything, that’s the Subaru.

VWT: One thing I want to ask: I’m a collector; I collect all kinds of weird crap. And the collection is never finished, there’s always something new to find. So what don’t you have in your collection that you are absolutely jonesing to have?

GI: You know what? I’m more of a Bus person than a Bug person, but I do have a couple Bugs, and I have a Ghia coming. It’s a convertible; it’s beautiful. But I did want to see about getting a Thing. Seinfeld’s got a really cool Thing. It’s Forest Green; I actually got to ride in it while it was being worked on. I love the power that it had, and I loved the feel of it. Not the safest car in the world; I think that’s why they stopped making it. But if you’re driving one of these, you’re not looking for safety.

VWT: That’s why you lower it and drop it way down so it’s like a slot car. Jay Leno, speaking of celebrities and cars, I had heard that you got bitten by…

GI: I thought you were going to say you got bitten by Jay Leno!

VWT: Yeah, that’s going to be one of those commercials in ten years: “Were you ever bitten by Jay Leno? If so, you may be entitled to compensation.” So was he the one that kinda of got you into collecting cars?

GI: Yes. I blame Jay Leno for this. Because before, this was just a giant warehouse for merchandise. Jay asked me what I was doing with my money. He said, “I know you’re working now and it’s coming in; how are you investing it? He said, “You know what?

I enjoy my investments. All these cars cost me one thing, and now some of them are worth almost double.” So I happened to pick a pretty awesome car that’s probably the most popular car. Like every time you see a Barret-Jackson Auction, it’s always the Bus that takes home the title.

VWT: I don’t know if you saw that auction where the Bus — it was clean, I don’t know if I’d say pristine — but it sold for something $210,000.

GI: See? Jay Leno was right. Those Busses are Bitcoin on wheels! I mean, I haven’t sold any; I’m not in it to sell them. I love them, so I keep them.

VWT: Would you sell one?

GI: Man … I’m not going to say no, because someone’s gonna show and say “I’ll give you …” and it’s like, groan. Never say never. But Leno was the reason I started collecting cars. I love the fact that his place looks like a museum. He puts as much details in the cars as he does the walls, and the floors, and everything around. It just looks cool. So I said, You know what? I’m gonna build a Volkswagen museum. That’s why the walls have real canvas paintings, I brought in an artist to do those.

VWT: Being in the limelight as you are, it’s probably hard for you to get out and go to car shows and things like that.

GI: I’ve tried it.

VWT: Do you get mobbed?

GI: Yeah, I can’t go by myself. I get sucked in by people…

VWT: That must be frustrating.

GI: It is, but I mean, it’s a Catch-22. But sometimes I will show up to a car meet …

VWT: Like a cars and coffee?

GI: Yeah, they have one they do once a month in Signal Hill by the In-n-Out. H2O Squadron puts it together. And I’ll pop in there, park the car, have a burger, and hang out. That’s more of a controlled environment. Like if I need to get out, I can get out, if it gets too crazy. But at the same time, it’s close by.

VWT: Well Gabriel, thank you so much for taking the time to talk with us; I know you’re a busy guy trying to get some downtime before the tour …

GI: Trying to get something to EAT! VWT: (laughs) But thanks for letting us come in and take control of your shop, and check everything out.

GI: You bet!

GOT A VW YOU THINK IS WORTH SHOWING OFF? Send a few good photos (JPG, at least 2MB) of your pride and joy to dan@ vwtrendsmagazine.com. Who knows?

Maybe you’ll grace the pages of VW Trends!

ERIC NELSON’S BAJA GHIA: Eric wanted to make a Class-

11-inspired Karmann Ghia —something hardly anyone has done. He found a ’73 and started to transform it. He wanted to keep the Ghia look, and not just cut off parts for the tires to fit, so this VW was completely built around the 235/75R/15 off-road tires. Eric cut and spread open the rear fenders, widening the back of the body almost 7 inches (he modified the rear bumper to match). With the bodywork complete, Eric sent it to Ein Tadeshi at Socal VW Restoration in Moreno Valley, California, who sprayed the beautiful John Deere Yellow paint. Joel Mohr at Mohr Performance in Hesperia, California, rebuilt the Type II transaxle. Ed Edwards from Salem, Oregon, built the 2.5-inch lift spindles. The Ghia has a total 4 inches of lift. The engine is a stock 1600 (for now).

ALLEN VARTANIAN’S AWESOME ’55 OVAL: Allen got

this car in 2005, right before he and his wife married. It got a full body-off restoration from 2005 to 2007 at Koch’s in Acton, California. But when it was time for Allen to start a future for his family, he sold this beauty to a collector in Dallas, Texas.

After 15 years Allen had the chance to get it back! The Oval received a complete re-do by Buddy Hale of T1 Restorations in Tempe, AZ. This ride features a 2332cc motor built by VW Paradise in San Marcos, California; full Dave Lumetta periodcorrect interior; and German square-weave carpet.

RICK BRUCE’S ’59 RAGTOP: All the

way from the Aloha State comes this awesome ’59 ragtop. Rick Bruce took four years to make his ride amazing, and we’d say mission accomplished! Alan Yamasaki sprayed the R&M Diamond Orange paint, and John Randolf at Powerhaus in Torrance, California built the dual 48 IDF-aspirated 2332cc monster motor. The interior is a beautiful camel color and has a killer stereo system. There are so many cool features to this Type I, we can’t list them here. Look for a full feature on this car in an upcoming issue of VW Trends!

VW TRENDS • FALL ’21 77

LOOKING FOR VW TRENDS MAGAZINE? Well, look no further! You can find your favorite VW magazine at these authorized VW Trends dealers across the nation.

December 11 Clovis Volkswagen’s 12th Annual Marine Corps Toys for Tots Car Show. Clovis, CA. 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tony: (559) 994-1192.

January 09 Southeast Eurofest Jacksonville. Orange Park, FL. All Euro car show and vendors. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free show admission. southeasteuromotorsports.com | @sevwa1 or @southeasteuro | Kathy: (919) 616-2183. 16 15th Annual Quaker Steak & Lube Bugfest. Clearwater, FL. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. $20 to enter VW in show.

Vendors $20. OvalJoe: (813) 516-7061 or email qslbugfest2022@ gmail.com.

February 05 Dubs by the Dam 12. Millerton Lake, Friant, CA. California’s Central Valley Winter campout (camping Feb. 4 to 6). You must preregister: (559) 286-7588. 26–27 Winter Volksfest 16. Raleigh, NC. VW-only show and swap meet indoors! NC State Fairgrounds. Admission $10. facebook.com/southeasteuromotorsports | @sevwa1 or @southeasteuro | Kathy: (919) 616-2183.

March 4–6 Volkswagens on the River. Yuma, AZ. Join us for a campout, show, and swap! Show is Sat. March 5, Gateway Park. $40 includes show entry and two nights of camping. Search Facebook for Volkswagens on the River. 20 VWs at The Rock #4. Rockingham Dragway, NC. All-VW car show, drag racing, and swap meet. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. $15 admission. Vendors $40. Show entry $10. southeasteuromotorsports.com/vws-at-the-rock.html | facebook.com/southeasteuromotorsports | @sevwa1 or @southeasteuro | Kathy: (919) 616-2183.

27 Meet in the Middle 2022. Solvang, CA. Vintage Volkswagen Club of America, Central Coast Chapter, CA. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Nojoqui Falls Park.

April 02 Herbie’s 53rd Anniversary Celebration Extravaganza. Daytona Beach, FL. One Daytona/Daytona International Speedway. herbies53rdanniversary.com 08-10 27th Annual VW Spring Fling Show, Swap, Camp. Madera, CA. Tony: (559) 994-1192. maderaspringfling.com.

May 15 Fast Times at Farmington #36. Mocksville, NC. All-VW car show, huge vendor and swap meet and drag racing. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. $15 spectator admission. southeasteuromotorsports.com/fast-timesat-farmington.html | facebook.com/southeasteuromotorsports | @ sevwa1 or @southeasteuro | Kathy: (919) 616-2183.

June 08/12 Wednesday: VTO’s Blackstar Campout. Jurupa Valley, CA. VW camping, family, friends, and kids. Raffle Sat. night.

Sunday: The Prado Show. Registration 8 a.m. | facebook.com/Blackstar-Campout-855417931239406 19 Summer Volksfest #8. Orange Park, FL. All-VW/Audi show and swap meet. 7220 Blanding Blvd. Free admission. Show car entry $20. Vendors $40. southeasteuromotorsports.com/summer-volksfest.html |facebook.com/southeasteuromotorsports | @sevwa1 or @southeasteuro | Kathy: (919) 616-2183.

78 VW TRENDS • FALL ’21

Pierside Parts 17031 Newland St #6037 Huntington Beach CA 92647 (714) 848-8868

Doug’s Buggs & Bunnys 1502 W Main St Mesa AZ 85201 (480) 962-1101

Bugformance 1620 El Camino Ave Sacramento CA 95815 (916) 929-4320

Edgefinder VW 12450 N 35th Ave Ste 25 Phoenix AZ 85029 (602) 687-2804

LateNightAirCooled 3130 Hwy 32 Unit #1 Chico CA 95973 (530) 774-7275

Less’s Buggy Shop 7717 Rabbit Circle Denver NC 28037 (704) 666-0098

Want to carry VW Trends in your VW shop?

It’s easy, and you can actually make some money doing it. Email info@vwtrendsmagazine.com with “dealer program” in the subject line.

Produced by Der Kleiner Kampfwagens and sponsored by the Detail Garage of Orange, Carbs ‘n Coffee is Orange County’s coolest monthly air-cooled VW gathering. It’s on the third Sunday of every month from 9 a.m. to 11a.m. Come hang out with your buddies and some of Southern California’s coolest VWs. Music, raffles, and free donuts and coffee! facebook.com/DKKCarbsnCoffee Detail Garage, 806 N. Tustin St., Orange CA, 92867 Do you have a cars and coffee event that’s primarily VWs? We’d love to feature it here!

Send us your pics and details for the gathering and we’ll post it. Our goal is to make a complete list of ALL the VW Cars and Coffee events around the world. Send a quality, high-resolution JPEG image (at least 2MB) and a brief where, when, and who about the event. So come on, show us what you’ve got! Send your submission to dan@vwtrendsmagazine.com.

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