VW Trends Magazine Vol. 1, No. 4, Spring 2022

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VOL. 1, NO. 4

SPRING 2022

BACK AFTER 35 YEARS: BILLY F. GIBBONS’ PEARL NECKLACE

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

CONTRIBUTORS Dave Cormack, Rich Crafton, Eric Geisert, Nate Henderson, Arthur Junior, Jeff Roberts, Bruce Simurda, Jason Smith, George Trosley, David Zemla

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 2022, STA Publishing, LLC. Periodical postage paid in Newport Beach, California and at additional mailing offices.

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VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

SPRING 2022 • VOL. 1 NO. 4

18

DEPARTMENTS 4 TOP DEAD CENTER: Happy first birthday to the new VW Trends.

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

8 READERS’ RIDES: Thing triplets, a LaLa Bus, a ’63 Herbie, a ’59 survivor.

40 PETRO’S PAGES: Run for your life!

64 WHAT YEAR IS IT? Glad you asked. It’s a ’67.

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

68 TOYS IN THE ATTIC: The VW Trends birthday Beetle.

74 BOOK REVIEW: Volkswagen Complete: Volkswagen History to Hobby.

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

78 CLUB SPOTLIGHT: The Vintage Volkswagen Club of America.

80 TROSLEY: VW Friends.

FEATURES 18 HARD-LUCK HAWAIIAN: Rick Bruce tries and tries again.

24 PERFECT RECIPE: Rick Bowen’s ’71 Karmann Ghia “S.” 34 PEARL NECKLACE REVISITED: An ’80s icon comes out of hiding.

46 TEST DRIVE: The 2022 Volkswagen ID.4.

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50 ORANGE CRUSH: Sometimes it’s not just about the car.

58 PANDEMIC GHIA: When the world stops, might as well build a new V-Dub. 72 PILE OF THE MONTH: The, uh, Wunderbug.

EVENTS 10 GRAND NATIONAL ROADSTER SHOW: Cover cars and rock stars.

30 VWs INVADE BIG BEAR: VW Trends takes on the Takeover.

TECHNICAL 28 GET A HANDLE ON IT: Easy e-brake mods.

42 HAIL TO THE KING, BABY: There’s a new carb in town.

24

46

62 TOP TIN: Something new in the way of engine tin.

On the cover: Eric Geisert captures Billy F. Gibbons and the guys at Grumpy’s Metal.

PHOTO: BEN NEWHARD

54 THROUGH THE ROOF: Installing Grumpy’s 2-fold ragtop.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

3

TOP DEAD CENTER HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY TO THE NEW VW TRENDS!

A

s I write this, we’re still a couple months out from sending this issue to the printer, but that doesn’t mean I’m any less SUPER excited about this issue! It’s the culmination of a lot of blood, sweat, tears, late nights and weekends, phone calls, and meetings. But this issue will always be special to me, as it’s the end of VW Trends’ first year of publication.

Looking back, I don’t know that I would do anything different … except maybe invest in a few more cases of Jolt Cola, or some Monster Energy drink. Anyway, the last 12 months have been a whirlwind! The bottom line is we couldn’t have done it without you, faithful reader. Without your support (and of course, the support of our advertisers), this magazine would never have seen the light of day. And for that, myself and the rest of the VW Trends staff owe you a heartfelt thanks! We’ve done some awesome things for a magazine that, up until 12 months ago, was dead and buried for 16 years. We’ve been all over the country, seen some amazing VW shows, met some truly awesome people, rubbed shoulders with celebrities and VW enthusiasts from around the globe, and thankfully, there’s no sign of things slowing down.

For those of you who bough the Platinum Founder’s Package, coming up this June is the AMAZING Founder’s party we promised you! If you didn’t buy that package, don’t worry, we’ll be bringing you full coverage in the Summer 2022 issue. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves; we’ve got a ton of stuff to talk about for this issue. One thing we’ve heard from our reader’s is you want MORE TECH! Well, this issue is made for you. We’ve got the exclusive on Jay Cee’s killer BGD billet aluminum carbs. Coming in 48, 50, and 52mm sizes, these monsters are an engineering marvel! Plus we’ve got a cool emergency-brake mod to customize your ride, and Eric Geisert brings us the skinny on adding a 3-fold sunroof to your

4

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

Bug! Long time readers of VW Trends will remember the name Dave “KaferDave” Cormack. Well, Dave is back with an awesome engine-tin story. See? You ask and VW Trends listens! On that note, we LOVE hearing from you and need your feedback.

Don’t hesitate to drop me a line at dan@ vwtrendsmagazine.com and let me know what’s on your mind.

Elsewhere in this issue, you’ll find our story on the Grand National Roadster Show. VW Trends had a huge presence at the show, and we’re bringing you full coverage of all the action. And we had the lovely Shannon Rae in our booth signing posters of our first cover co-branded with our friends at EMPI! Now some of you may be saying, “Wait … What? Why is VW Trends covering a roadster show? Isn’t that a bunch of old rich dudes showing off their half-million-dollar hot rods?” Well, this show was special for a bunch of reasons.

One hundred of the coolest Volkswagen show cars from the ’80s and ’90s took over the Expo Hall of the Pomona Fairgrounds.

Outside the building was a secondary show area, and longtime VW Trends friends RK Smith and Dean Kirsten handed out awards there. There were more than a few

ILLUSTRATIONS: RON PETRO

Volkswagens in the show that you’ll remember from many covers of our magazine from back in the day! Take a gander and see for yourself.

Speaking of events, we’ve got coverage of the Big Bair Takeover. What a cool show!

If you missed last year’s event, be sure to mark your calendars for this year’s. Last year, they gave away a turn-key 1835cc engine. Who knows what they’ll be giving away this year? It’s a great event put on by awesome people.

One thing we wanted to incorporate in our magazine is new-car tests and reviews.

We get that some of you are die-hard air-cooled fans, but we also understand that there are those that love ALL VWs, and may want to get a new Volkswagen to keep the family car in the same ecosystem.

We’ve connected with the good people at VW and convinced them to let us get our hands on a brand-new Volkswagen ID.4 electric SUV. Don’t miss our seat-of-thepants, hands-on, real-world evaluation of this amazing vehicle. I almost said “car,” but it’s not a car … it’s a Volkswagen! A big thanks to VW of America for letting this bunch of derelicts loose with a brand-new vehicle!

So you can see, our one-year anniversary issue is packed to the brim with all kinds of really cool VW stuff. And dare I say, we’ve got more features, events, tech, and cool stuff than any other VW magazine out there (plus I think we look better, too). So sit back, pop open your drink of choice, and peruse this issue. And again, from the bottom of our hearts, thanks for your support though this last year. We’re already looking forward to some amazing things for our second year.

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

WHAT’S NEW

RANCHO PRO DRAG IRS TYPE 1 TRANSAXLE: This street or strip highperformance transaxle includes a complete rebuild, Rhino case with gusset, DFT Super Diff with 091 internals, Type 2 or 930 flanges, two heavy-duty side plates, German 3.88 ring and pinion, Weddle 1-4 gears, chromoly pinion retainer, aluminum carrier, aluminum nose cone/vertigate, and more. Core required, or Rancho can supply at additional charge. Call Rancho for pricing and build information: (714) 680-6737.

CLASSIC REPRINT “The Head Shop” t-shirts. Original artwork by Lane Evans (editor for Hot VWs) from the early ’70s. High quality 100% cotton. $25 + shipping. For more colors, styles, and decals, see @lonniereedtheheadshop on Instagram or email info@ lonniereedtheheadshop.com

ADJUSTABLE STANDOFF DECKLID HINGES: Unlike traditional standoffs, these innovative adjustable brackets open your Beetle’s decklid three inches for better engine cooling while also letting you easily put your decklid back into the factory position to keep out rain and dust. By simply removing the bolt you can switch between the closed position and the open position. A pin-type fastener is included for even quicker operation. These brackets replace your factory hinge brackets, will fit all years of air-cooled Beetles, and can easily be installed using your existing hardware. For more information, email KCVWparts@gmail.com or check out their Facebook group at KC Air-cooled.

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VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

HOW TO REBUILD Your Air-Cooled VW Engine by noted VW engine builder Prescott Phillips. This book covers everything you’ll need to know: picking an engine to rebuild; what can be saved for the rebuilt engine and what can’t; how to save parts to save money; how to disassemble, inspect, and prepare engine components for re-use; and a trip to the machine shop. Prescott even covers things such as line boring and setting crankshaft end play before the engine is assembled. He includes directions for easy-to-make tools to make your rebuilding experience easier. There are even instructions on how to make an inexpensive start-and-run stand so your engine can be broken in and tested before you install it in the car. Available through CarTech books, 838 Lake Street South, Forest Lake, Minnesota, 55025, (651) 277-1200, (800) 551-4754, cartechbooks.com

SUPPORT VW TRENDS ...or we’ll have to send this car to the crusher.

Don’t make Dan sad.

Get your subscriptions, t-shirts, and stickers at

vwtrendsmagazine.com

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

7

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!

GREGG ANDERSON’S THING TRIPLETS: Gregg is the

proud owner of three matching consecutive-year Things, or The Triplets, as he calls them. The ’73 on the left is named Ugly, and it features every dealer accessory option available, and then some. The ’75 in the center (named Righty) is a right-hand-drive example from Northern Ireland. Righty has a header exhaust system, front disc brakes, American Racing Magnesium Torque Thrusters, NOS running boards, NOS dual air cleaner, NOS fog lights, overrider bumper guards, MK II steering wheel, and a Hurst curved RHD shifter. The ’74 (named Sparky) is running an EV conversion kit from EV West. Sparky is energized by 7 Tesla Model S batteries, powered by a Netgain Hyper 9 150hp motor, and stopped by front disc brakes. Sparky also sports a ’73 Sports Bug limited edition steering wheel, NOS center-tunnel console, coco mats, NOS overrider bumper guards, European flat amber tail lights, and a copper-plated curved Hurst shifter.

SHARON FORBIS’ ’68 “LALA” BUS: This Bus had been

sitting in the Central Oregon high desert for 20 years. It was mostly rust free but had no engine or interior. Sharon and her husband Tom hauled it home, gutted the inside, and began prepping the Bus for bodywork and paint. Tom taught Sharon how to do everything from degreasing to painting. (Her least favorite part was running the D.A. sander.) They installed new wiring, brakes, suspension, upholstery, floor, and headliner.

“Every part of this bus was designed by me and built by us and our friends who had the skills we didn’t,” Sharon says. “Two years of date nights in the garage have paid off, and there are more of those date nights already planned for the future!”

JAY TURNER’S ’63 RAGTOP: Jay’s

Herbie replica is loosely based on the Herbie Goes To Monte Carlo version with a darker blue stripe and a functional Carello driving light mounted directly to the trunk lid. The car has widened 15x6 “smoothie” wheels with “Goodyear GT Radial” lettering applied to Hankook tires. Jay’s Herbie was recently freshened up with a new coat of L87 Pearl White from Act’s Paint and Body and new vinyl stripes and #53 “gumball” decals from Mincey’s Graphics, both of Durham, North Carolina. Jay plans to add some wirelessly controlled animatronics and interior details, including a roll bar and movie accurate custom high-back seats.

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VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

YOU HAD US AT “CAT SKELETON”

 About to be awakened from a 49-year nap. Here you can see the hole in the ragtop that may have been one cat’s downfall.  This car sat dormant in a garage from 1970 to 2019. Adrian Laiño is the second owner.

ADRIAN LAIÑO’S ’59 RAGTOP: This

car is a true survivor, in as-found condition.

For 49 years — from 1970 to 2019 — it sat, undriven, in the original owner’s garage in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey.

The original owner was in her late 60s when she decided to go to the 1958 New York International Auto Show. She entered a raffle for a brand-new Beetle. As you might have guessed, she won. Unfortunately, the car was wrecked during transport, so the promoter replaced the ’58 Beetle she won with the ’59 ragtop you see here.

She picked it up from Handy VW in New Brunswick, New Jersey.

She drove it for a little more than 10 years, logging 55,000 documented miles (the service stickers are still in the door jamb). In 1970 she was backing it out of a spot and cracked a support on the rear bumper. She decided she was too old to be driving, and parked the car in her garage.

When she passed away, her property went to her daughters.

In 2017, Adrian’s buddy Dan was driving through Pennsauken in his ’56 convertible.

While chatting with Dan, a local guy mentioned “a Beetle from the 50s” that his neighbor used to own.

Long story short, Dan tracked down the original owner’s daughters. After some negotiation they were willing to sell.

The car itself is remarkably dry and sol-

id. The surface rust is more visible on the passenger side because 49 years of weather came into the garage on that side through a broken garage window. The ragtop fabric had become brittle, and at some point a cat fell through the ragtop material and into the car. Unable to escape, it died inside the car, making for a gnarly skeleton surprise once the car was pulled out.

The car was built August 5, 1958; Adrian says he’s yet to find an earlier ’59. The 36hp is the original motor, and is the 341st motor that was built for use in ’59 models.

To get the car roadworthy, Adrian replaced the battery and brake shoes and made sure the brakes were mechanically sound. He drained the old gas out, flushed out the gear oil, changed the engine oil, installed new plugs and points, adjusted the carb, and basically did a full and thorough tuneup.

Adrian now lives in Raleigh, North Carolina. He wants the car to remain in “as found” condition. He hasn’t tried to clean it up, nor does he have any plans to.

Aside from general maintenance, the only thing he has replaced is the fabric on the ragtop. He drives it as often as possible. In December he had the motor in pieces doing a reseal job in New Jersey. He finished at midnight, and at 6 a.m. left for a ten-hour, 527-mile drive to Raleigh, with the ragtop open the whole ride.

 Don’t look for mods and updates in here. The car had about 55,000 miles on it when Adrian pulled it out of hiding.

 Here’s the original and stock 36hp workhorse. Adrian has put about 4,000 miles on the car, and plans to add many more.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

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COVER CARS AND ROCK ‘N ROLL STARS AT THE

GRAND NATIONAL ROADSTER SHOW e n y S g n a L Auld ng Past) (Times Lomona in Poand photos Story rafton

by Rich C

10 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

 The lovely Shannon Rae graced the VW Trends booth, signing EMPI-branded posters of the first VWT cover in print after 16 years.

EMPI was kind enough to sponsor the special posters for the show. The lines were long, but Shannon is a pro.

T

he Grand National Roadster Show is entering its 72nd year, making it the longest running indoor car show in the world. That’s a pretty impressive statement, but making this particular show at the Fairplex in Pomona, California even more iconic was the “Gathering of Hot VWs” in the Expo Hall. This year, 100 Volkswagens from all walks of life — street, strip, show, and off-road — were specially hand-picked to attend this show. Thank goodness the show lasted three days, as there was so much to see.

There’s just no substitute for being in the moment. The smell of carnauba wax mixed with hot dogs and a tinge of exhaust.

The loud hum of hundreds of conversations, laughter, and the distant drumbeat of a live band outside. Pure energy — it’s everywhere, and it’s intoxicating.  He’s bad; he’s nationwide; he’s posing with an icon of the ’80s VW scene which has been in hiding for 34 years. Billy F. Gibbons was inducted into the Grand National Roadster Hall of Fame during the show. (See our story on page 34.)

PHOTO: ERIC GEISERT

As usual, the Grand National was a sizable collection of the most beautiful hot rods. But unique to this year, there was also a gathering of hot VWs, hosted by EMPI and Hot VWs magazine. Kudos go out to Shin and his team for promoting a fun and memorable space where old and new friends came together to share stories, swap ideas, and take in all the awesome Volkswagens.

The show may have been sponsored by Hot VWs, but it boasted a TON of former VW Trends cover cars from the ’80s and ’90s! One of the biggest surprises was the appearance of Billy F. Gibbons’ “Pearl Necklace” convertible, which graced the January ’88 cover of VW Trends (see story, page 34). This VW has never been seen by the general public, and it was awesome to be able to view it in person after 34 years!

Billy was also inducted into the Grand National Roadster Hall of Fame that weekend.

EMPI had a huge vendor booth, showing off their wares that included Jay Cee’s new BGD Billet carbs and EMPI’s new shifter.

EMPI also sponsored the appearance of VW Trends cover model and friend Shannon Rae. On Saturday, Shannon signed

an EMPI-branded poster of VW Trends magazine’s first cover at the VW Trends booth. The lines were especially crazy, but Shannon was a real trooper, greeting fans and posing for photos. It was great to have her there!

The amazing Volkswagens weren’t just confined to the Expo Hall. We checked out some of the other buildings and found some really awesome Bugs showing next to pristine street rods and muscle cars! Outside was a secondary car show called Granddaddy’s Drive-In where cars not actually in the show could park and hang out.

The sprawling fairgrounds included over 125 vendors and showcased more than 500 hot rods and more than 100 Volkswagens. The Expo Hall, where the VW action was located, had the most foot traffic. It didn’t matter if you were a tried-and-true die-hard hot rodder or a first-time car show attendee: This event delivered a satisfying time for car lovers of every type. In the end, it’s the incredibly talented people — artisans of welding, paint, mechanics, restoration, and imagination — to whom we owe our respect and gratitude. Thank you, and keep on V-dubbin’.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 11

 The man, the legend (and just all-around great guy) Burly Burlile sitting down for a live podcast with interviewer extraordinaire Bill Tsagrinos of Let’s Talk Dubs.

 A thriller 1943, all in matte black, owned by Lloyd Kee of Kirkland, Washington.  This 1960 Drag Buggy is owned by “Fish” Fisher of Doug’s Buggs n’ Bunnys in Mesa, Arizona.

 Getting some serious Munsters vibes with Nathan Howe’s ’68 “Dethrod.”

The Brubaker Box, Type-I-based futuristic kit car designed by Curtis Brubaker way back in the early ’70s. The fiberglass body is made from 13 bonded panels.

A sliding door on the right side is the vehicle’s sole entrance.

12 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

▲ The classic orange “Julius” bug lit up the floor in the custom rods hangar.

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VWTRENDSMAGAZINE.COM VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 13

 Marty Salerno’s “Karmageddon,” built on a Karmann Ghia Type 34. About 42,000 Type 34s were built, and Volkswagen originally supplied the cars with a 45hp 1500cc motor. It’s safe to say that this one puts down a few more ponies than that.

 Gary Stell Jr. took a Slonaker award for his immaculate 1952 Bug.

 The DKP Club had a fine showing of club cars toward the south entrance of the Expo Hall.

 Here’s Dean Kirsten giving the late Darrell Vittone’s iconic racecar the “wax-on” treatment.

14 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

 This Thing was nothing but a husk of burnt metal after the devastating fire in Paradise, California, but was lovingly turned into a work of art.

 Stanley Escolano (shown here with the lovely Shannon Rae) brought out his super-clean Bad Razz Bug. This beauty will be gracing the pages of VW Trends in an upcoming issue!

 The Schley Brothers’ Lightning Bug dragster looks as good today as it did when it debuted those many years ago.

 Art Shapiro’s ’55 convertible Bug really drew tons of attention. This is one of the cleanest ‘verts we’ve seen!

 Car Craft brought out their orange drag Bug.  The powerplant in this Thing is serious business with serious horsepower! We wouldn’t want to go up against this beast.

16 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

 Nothing screams “1980s” like a beautiful scalloped paint job. Bob Daniels and Aaron Kahan’s rides were painted by the same painter only months apart back in 1987, and look just as pristine as they did back then.

 Dave Kingdig of the TV show Bitchin’ Rides brought his awesome Hebmuller to the show. Purists may pass out from seeing it, but it can be easily returned to stock.

 Burly and Pat Burlile’s ’03 Beetle was one of the last of its kind when it rolled off the production line in Mexico. Look for a VWT feature on this car soon!

 We might be a little biased, but we’re partial to the color of Rick Sadler’s ’67 DKP Cal-Look cover car, seen here in the VW Trends booth.

 Outside the Expo Hall was another show — Granddaddy’s Drive-In had almost as many cars as the show inside!

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 17

18 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

Rick Bruce didn’t let a long string of unfortunate events stop him from building the car of his dreams.

Story by Jason Smith Photos courtesy of Rick Bruce

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 19

G

ather ’round, boys and girls, and I’ll tell you a tale of heartbreak, woe, frustration, and just plain crummy luck. Rick Bruce had so many setbacks and misfortunes on his decades-long journey to this ’59 ragtop that it’s a minor miracle he didn’t just say the hell with it and decide to drive a Camry.

When Rick was 16 he bought a ’66 Beetle Rick moved on, and decades went by. off a used-car lot in Kailua, Hawaii, where But like a lot of us that caught the VW bug his grandfather worked. “It wasn’t pretty at early in life, Rick was never quite cured. In all, and the interior had two front seats and 2015 he cashed out his retirement account that was it,” Rick says. “No carpet, no head- and combined it with some savings to creliner, no nothing. But it had a ate the Bug of his dreams. He new 1835 motor with dual 44 enlisted a company in Califor“My heart was webers and was fast as hell.” He nia to build him a ’63 ragtop. At shattered,” spent about a year doing a panfirst things seemed to be going Rick says. “I off restoration, and he loved well, and Rick received updates couldn’t eat the way it turned out. He soon and photos of the project every or sleep for sold the car but immediately couple of months. But when months. … regretted it. So when he was 18 progress on the car slowed, $30k of my life he bought a ’69 Beetle that had the builder began to provide savings gone.” already been fixed up. explanations. The explanations So far, so good, right? began to become excuses, and Six months after buying it, he crashed Rick, who was already in the project to and totaled the ’69. Unfortunate. But, you the tune of $30 grand, got more and more know, when we’re 18 we do dumb things. uncomfortable. You can see where this is He replaced the ’69 with a Scirocco. going: The company’s phone number is disEight months later, a drunk driver hit him connected. One of the company’s founders and totaled the Scirocco. Bad, bad luck. is arrested for grand theft auto of another

20 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

▲ The safari windshield is from Jeremy at VW LooseNuts.

customer’s car, then is released, then skips town. Rick gathers up his documentation and jumps on a plane from Hawaii to California to file a police report. The police tell Rick that lots of other folks have claims against this guy.

“My heart was shattered,” Rick says. “I couldn’t eat or sleep for months. To this day they still have no info for me. $30k of my life savings gone.”

Rick stewed for a year or so but didn’t give up. He found a ’59 ragtop on Craigslist in Anaheim, California. He tells us the asking price was more than he wanted to pay, “But I just said, ‘Whatever, I’m just gonna buy it.’ ” He shipped it back to Hawaii.

Three months later, someone ran a stop sign and smashed the entire passenger side of the ’59, because of course they did.

“You can’t imagine my anger and frustration at this point,” he says. “Insurance gives me a few grand.” Rick stewed again, this time for more than a year. Then one day, with seemingly the entire universe aligned against him, Rick vows yet again that he’s not going to give up. He decides to do a complete pan-off resto of the ’59, no matter how long it takes or how much it costs.

“At this point my wife Anna has had it and is not happy,” Rick says. “She can’t understand why I don’t let this Bug thing go; it’s obviously not meant to be. I told her she could never understand and I didn’t know how to explain it.”

Rick says there are few shops where he lives in Kona, Hawaii, that will work on vintage Volkswagens, so he had to learn to do things himself. He wanted to sand-

the build sPECS

EXTERIOR: Bodywork, custom mods, paint, and 4 coats of R-M Diamont paint with 7 coats of clear, all done by Alan Yamasaki of AY Customs, Hilo, HI. CHASSIS: Probuilt adjustable shockless 6” narrowed beam. Front and rear Bad Series disc brake kit. SLG-05-17 billet rims, Yokohama S Drive tires (195/40R17 81W front, 205/45R17 88W rear).

▲ Bruce knew what he wanted, and, with a lot of persistence, he finally got it: TMI created the custom seat covers. The CNC Black Mamba shifter is from Vintage Speed, and the chrome Signature Series pedal assembly is from CoolRydes Customs. A Highway 15 custom wiring kit from American Auto Wire lets the electrons go where they’re needed.

ENGINE: Built by John Randolph at Powerhaus, Torrance, CA. 2332cc aluminum full-flow super case. 84mm stroker crank, Engle 120 camshaft. 42x37 CNC-ported heads, stainless valves.

Forged chromoly flywheel. 30mm cast oil pump, deep 1.5-qt. sump. 48 IDF Weber carbs. Polished Magnaspark distributor. Stainless braided hose kit.

Scat serpentine pulley system. Stainless header and muffler.

TRANSAXLE: Probuilt trans with super diff, HD side plates, 4:12 R&P, steel shift forks, hardened keys, freeway gears.

INTERIOR: Custom seat covers, visors, rear speaker shelf and e-brake cover by TMI. Carpet kit from Sewfine, modified

by Big Island Upholstery. German cloth headliner from Lenny at West Coast Classics. 5-piece matching gauge set from ISP West. Chrome Signature Series pedal assembly from CoolRydes Customs.

CNC Black Mamba shifter from Vintage Speed.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 21

▲ Built by John Randolph at Powerhaus, the 2332cc engine features a slew of go-fast goodies, including a 84mm stroker crank, Engle 120 camshaft, 42x37 CNC-ported heads with stainless valves, and 48 IDF Weber carbs.

▲ Who suffered more — Bruce, who tried for years to build his dream car, or Anna, who had to put up with him (and a house full of parts) while he did it? It doesn’t really matter.

Just get out there and enjoy it, you two. (And maybe keep a four-leaf clover on the dash.)

blast the pan, but no one on the island did sandblasting. So he started his own mobile sandblasting business and just blasted it himself. When it came time for bodywork and paint, the only guy on the island who would take the job was Alan Yamasaki of AY Customs, but there was a year-long wait.

22 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

As he waited for Yamasaki, Rick started ordering parts, from the front beam to the engine and everything in between. “Every nut and bolt was new,” he says. “I had parts in every room in the house, including the bedroom. The wife was not happy.” (Sorry, Anna.)

Finally, Rick got the ’59 back from paint.

Yamasaki replaced the rusted-out heater channels, both aprons, the door-hinge posts, and a slew of other stuff. “Thank God I waited for him,” Rick says, “because he did the most amazing job I have ever seen.”

This is the point in the story where Rick’s luck finally changes for the better, right? Where he buttons everything completely back up and there’s nothing but island sun and surf and relaxation from here on out? Right?

Well. It took Rick over a year to get the car back together. It seemed like nothing went together easily. “Every single little thing I did was a major ordeal,” he says. “It was the wrong part; it didn’t fit; I had to modify a million things; blah, blah, blah. I could go into more detail but you know how it goes.

“Thank God for YouTube. Chris Vallone’s videos taught me a lot — especially his nine-part ragtop headliner installation video. I couldn’t have done it without him.”

Rick may have had one the longest strings of bad luck imaginable, and he may have been closer to giving up more times than your average knuckleheaded car guy will ever have to be. But here he is. And here’s the car. It has everything Rick wanted, and it looks the way he wanted it to.

“You want something done right, you gotta do it yourself,” Rick says.

It has taken Rick a little time to get comfortable behind the wheel: He says the car has been out of his garage just a few times, mainly for test drives. “I’m actually scared to drive it,” he says.

We feel you, Rick. But surely the universe doesn’t have you or your dream car in its crosshairs anymore. Go forth and drive. Do nice things for your wife, Anna. Goodness knows at this point she deserves it. Aloha.

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Rick Bowen’s updated ’71 Ghia combines classic Karmann looks with updated performance to make the

PERFECT RECIPE

By Bruce Simurda

W

e’re always fascinated by stories of how people were magical. That also sparked his curiosity about the VW engine, so introduced to the VW scene, and how unique and he disassembled the buggy’s 36-horse just to see what was inside, deep-rooted these stories are in their lives. For Rick cleaned everything, and put it all back together. It ran great.

Bowen of Hawthorne, California, who today is a proud member of In high school, with that accomplishment under his belt, Rick the WestSide Volkswagen Club, exposure began customizing a ’63 Bug. If you were to the air-cooled VW scene came way back into the scene back then you will surely in 1969 when his family joined two families remember pieces like fiberglass flared fendin purchasing a ’56 Bug to convert into a ers, hood, and decklid, slotted mag wheels, dune buggy. It had a simple 36hp engine Zenith carbs, and glasspack mufflers. and two Bug rear bench seats that could Rick eventually married, had a daughhold six on their outings to Red Rock Canter, and sold the Bug to get a more famiyon. As much fun as the “six-pack” buggy ly-oriented car. In 1982 he acquired the car was, each family eventually built their own he always wanted: a ’66 Ghia convertible. off-roader. For theirs, Rick’s family used It got a 2275cc engine with dual Weber four fiberglass seats from a bowling alley, 44IDFs, built trans, custom dash with VDO and bolted them to a Bug’s floorpan that gauges and more. The car was stolen before they shortened using an acetylene torch he could finish it, and things got quiet VWand coat hangers as welding rod … We don’t wise for a few years. Eventually he bought have to tell you how that worked! another buggy, regularly making great trips The next buggy was built from tubing by to Glamis over the next couple of decades. a local muffler shop, but sadly Rick’s father But eventually fewer and fewer of Rick’s passed away before it was complete. At 14 friends had the time to make desert trips. years old, Rick finished the project, and And I guess it would be safe to say that Rick in March of 1971 he took it on its maiden always missed his pilfered Ghia. So on MeWhat’s better than cruising to the beach in voyage to some sand dunes he heard about morial Day weekend 2017 he brought home a Ghia convertible? Rick Bowen spent three — a place called Glamis (a.k.a. Imperial a humble example of a ’71 Karmann Ghia and a half years transforming this ’71 into Sand Dunes). Rick thought the place was and spent the next three and a half years the car of his dreams.

24 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

The original bumpers and personalized plate don’t hint at the performance hidden under the decklid, but the “Karmann Ghia S” badge does!

bringing his vision for it to life. That vision was pretty specific, as he wanted to maintain a mainly stock exterior appearance while adding suspension upgrades and plenty of power.

As he tore into the car he examined every part and either salvaged or replaced it. He sent out some of the assemblies for major reconstruction. One of those items was the floorpan, which was hauled to CoolRydes In 2017 Rick Customs in San Diego. brought The first order of business was the typical home a pan-half replacements, but then it got real humble interesting with the addition of Mendeola example of a front and rear coil-over suspension systems. ’71 Karmann The front True Performance T-1 kit features Ghia and Fox racing shocks with QA-1 springs, 4140 spent the chromoly A-arms, zero scrub spindles, Gernext three man rack and pinion, 3/4-inch sway bar and and a half Energy suspension bushings, all mounted years with a Mendeola bulkhead assembly. The bringing his True Track rear suspension also features Fox vision for Racing shocks with QA-1 springs along with it to life. He Mendeola’s tubular chromoly 4130 trailing wanted to arms, their Stiffy bar, and sway bar. maintain a CoolRydes Customs also added custom mainly stock seat rails for Audi TT seats, modified the exterior pan for a Porsche 915 transaxle and linkage, appearance installed Wilwood calipers, set up a hydraulic while adding clutch system, and powder coated the pan. suspension While this was going on Rick sent the body upgrades to the paint strippers and had it acid dipped and plenty of before he jumped in to tackle the bodywork. power.

First he coated the shell with epoxy primer, then replaced all the rotted sheet metal. He made a few modifications like clearancing for the 915 transaxle and rack and pinion, boxing in the engine compartment to allow room for an oil cooler, and modifying the dash. He used a custom rotisserie during much of the bodywork, but he bolted the unfinished body to the pan several times to ensure proper alignment.

Wanting a strong yet reliable powerplant to bolt to the Porsche 5-speed, Rick contacted Powerhaus in Torrance, who happen

The interior features heated leather 2004 Audi TT seats, a Momo style wheel, and much more. CoolRydes Customs installed a Porsche 5-speed shifter.

VDO gauges include speedo, tach, cylinder head temp, oil pressure, and volts. Rick installed the custom carbon-fiber dash.

Spare cylinder? Actually, Rick really wanted a cup holder, so he fabricated this 85.5mm model and mounted it between the seats.

Just right for a Starbucks Venti!

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 25

The black canvas top came from Chuck’s Convertibles and was installed by Santi’s Upholstery, who also handled much of the interior.

Hand-detailed 17-inch EMPI “Fuchs” are wrapped with Yokohama S-Drive tires.

to have a rather robust Type 4 engine available. The actual engine they chose started life as a ’73 914 2.0-liter, but today it displaces 2.8 liters, thanks to 84mm cranks and 103mm J&E pistons with Hastings rings. Its 2.0 heads had been ported by Les Martin sometime in the past, and they use big 46 x 40mm stainless steel valves.

With a European Motorworks cam offering .500-inch lift with 1.3 rockers, the power is smooth and plentiful without being abrupt. Topping the engine off is a Sharpbuilt (Australian) fan housing with 911 fan/ alternator, CB Performance Magnaspark II coil, dual Italian Weber 48 IDA carbs bored to 52mm and topped with gold-plated jet screens, and a custom-built 1-5/8-inch Sidewinder header by Tiger at A1 Muffler.

On the dyno, this combination delivered 185 horsepower and 187 ft.-lbs. of torque at the rear wheels. A RLR multi-disc clutch and pressure plate gets this power to the ’76 Porsche 911 5-speed gearbox, which was meticulously prepped by Rancho Performance Transaxles. Already a super-tough gearbox with 3.88 ring and pinion and stock gearing, it was upgraded with heavy-duty CMS side cover, CMS bearing retainer, and a powdercoated case.

After some shakedown test drives and final prep, Rick took the body to Perfect Auto Body in Hawthorne for its

26 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

This is how the Ghia looked the day Rick brought it home. You can see that the decklid is a bit dented, but you can’t see the amount corrosion repair that lies ahead!

At this point in the reconstruction you can see that there is much bodywork remaining, but the body was reunited to the pan to test for fit. Note the braces in the door needed to hold the body together.

finishing touch, a coat of DuPont Atlantis Blue (BMW #399) followed by plenty of clearcoat.

Once the body was home and mated to the floorpan for the final time, reassembly began. Rick used only new stainless steel or zinc-plated fasteners throughout.

Santi’s Upholstery in Hawthorne used black leather to recover the heated 2004 Audi TT front seats, adding the embroidered “Ghia” script, along with the German square-weave wool carpet, headliner and black canvas top from Chuck’s Convertible Parts. Rick finished the interior with a carbon-fiber dash that holds a Sony XAVAX5000 head unit with Android Audio and backup camera, switches, and VDO gauges.

The classy interior also features custom door panels, a Planet Audio amp, Polk 6x9 speakers, Porsche 911 shifter and Momo steering wheel.

Rick finished the body with all the factory trim, with one exception — 17-inch hand-detailed EMPI Fuchs wheels with Yokohama S-Drive tires (205/40/17 front and 205/50/17 rear). While the Karmann Ghia has always been a beautiful and fun car to drive, Rick’s concept takes it to another level. Combining the classic appearance of the Karmann Ghia with the handling and power of a modern performance car, it truly is the perfect recipe.

One special touch Rick added to the dash was a Sony XAVAXX5000 head unit with Android Audio and backup camera … sweet!

Dual Italian Weber 48IDA carbs were bored to 52mm, polished, and rebuilt with gold-plated jet screens to prevent tarnishing. Scat Trak manifolds were welded and match-ported before polishing.

The front Mendeola True Performance suspension system features Fox racing shocks with QA-1 springs, 4140 chromoly A-arms, zeroscrub spindles, German Meyle rack and pinion and a lot more.

Built by Powerhaus, the Porsche 914 2.0 Type 4 engine now displaces a whopping 2.8-liters, thanks to 103mm J&E pistons and an 84mm stroker crank. The heads were ported by Les Martin some time in the past and feature 46x40mm stainless steel valves.

There’s a ton of custom work out back, including Mendeola tubular 4130 chromoly trailing arms, Fox coil-over shocks with QA-1 springs, Stiffy bar, 1976 Porsche 915 transaxle, WOSP starter, CNC hydraulic clutch … the list goes on!

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 27

TECH

GET A HANDLE ON IT

 3. The next step is to smooth the weld.

Here we used a standard file, but a fine abrasive bench grinder or belt sander would be a good choice too.

It doesn’t take a lot of dough to give your interior a one-off look — just a little creativity and some work! Story and photography by Bruce Simurda

A

few things are true about most VW enthusiasts: They really like to make their VWs their VWs, and they enjoy doing as much of the work as possible themselves.

Customizing, changing, modifying — there’s often no limit to what they’ll do to their vehicles. We see it all the time at shows, from slammed fenderless rods with no parts untouched to more subtle creations with discrete changes. The bottom line: customizing is in our blood!

So here’s an idea that might spark interest in an often-overlooked component, the emergency brake handle. Sure, you can buy a chromed version, or have yours painted or powder coated, but where’s the entrepreneurial spirit in that? VW people are creative, so how about getting a little creative with the e-brake handle as well?

In this article, we’ll show how we modified our ’67 Beetle’s e-brake handle with a few custom holes — 3/8-inch through the top and 5/16-inch on the sides — for a

see-through look. We had the inside rod chrome plated and bought a new black spring from Wolfsburg West for a contrasting look of black and chrome. Before starting, we had the bottom seam welded at a local shop for strength, and after drilling carefully placed holes through the handle, we thoroughly deburred it to ensure there were no sharp edges, then painted it. We assembled it using refurbished and new components and placed it on the chassis, where it looked great against a freshly powder coated floorpan.

While we chose to add a few holes and then paint our handle gloss black, this is only our idea, and the concept is really open to a wide variety of designs. How about cutting slots instead of drilling holes?

Or chroming the spring and painting the inside rod? Customizing is a very personal thing, but with a little thought, planning and work, it’s another way to make your VW your VW.

 1. Here are the parts of the e-brake handle from a ’67 Bug; other years may differ. Missing or worn pieces are available from shops like Wolfsburg West.

 2. Since our concept calls for drilling holes in the handle, we first added a little extra strength by MIG welding the length of the seam along the bottom.

28 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’21

 4. The outside is looking good, but we’ll finish it with a finer sandpaper. Also check inside for excess weld that could get caught on the spring. Now comes the creative part: laying out your design.

While we chose staggered holes, yours could be any shape or pattern you come up with.

 5. Here we’re marking the top centerline of the handle to ensure that our holes were spaced evenly and in line.

 6. Check carefully before scribing: If your centerline is not perfectly straight, it will throw off your layout later on.

 7. On the top of the handle we marked the location for four 3/8-inch holes spaced 1 inch apart. Be sensible, don’t drill holes so large that you weaken the handle.

 12. We carefully deburred all the holes both inside and out. You’ll be grabbing this handle for years to come, so be sure there are no sharp edges!

 8. We leveled the handle and clamped it securely in a vise, then used a 3/16" bit to drill pilot holes through top and bottom walls. A drill press ensures the holes are straight.

 13. At this point we’ve added the fourth hole and carefully deburred everything. You can now see the look we had been envisioning.

 9. The handle metal was fairly hard, so the pilot holes ensure that the larger 3/8" holes are clean and straight.

 14. We sprayed the handle with black appliance epoxy paint, which is durable and should withstand rigorous use.

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GET YOUR MERCH ON: HEAD ON OVER TO VWTRENDSMAGAZINE.COM  10. We rotated the handle 90°, marked the position of the three 5/16" side holes between the top holes, then drilled through both walls of the handle.

 15. It’s now ready to go back together.

With everything else painted black, the chrome rod down the center provides just a touch of sparkle.

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 11. Here’s what it looked like after we drilled the holes. At this point there are only three top holes, but after seeing the layout, we decided to add a fourth.

 16. You can see the spring and chrome plated rod inside the handle through the holes. It’s not bold or in your face; it’s just a custom touch.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 29

VWs INVADE BIG BEAR VWT takes on the Takeover

W

hat could be better than a trip to the mountains? Clean air, tall trees, cool running streams, tranquil rest, and relaxation. Well, add to that a super fun and cool VW show and after-party, and you’ve got the makings of a great event! That’s what folks got when hordes of Volkswagens took to Big Bear Mountain. Every October, the parking lot of The Lodge at Big Bear Lake plays host to the Big Bair Takeover VW car show. Cars come from all over to drive up the mountain and party at one of the most fun, family-friendly events around, and this year was no exception.

Not gonna lie, it was a tad chilly driving up the mountain, but things started heating up as we rounded the corner to the hotel: A ton of VWs were already in line for the show. We’re talking Volkswagens of all kinds, shapes, sizes and different levels of customization. Air-cooled, water-cooled, Bugs, Ghias, Things, off-road… if you can

30 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

By DG Leadbetter imagine it, the Big Bair Takeover had it.

There were a ton of clubs represented, including VolksStyle, Lady Volks, Straight Buggin’, Dub Folks, and LA Aircooled, to name just a few. The restaurant inside the hotel was pretty full throughout the day, and the promoters also had a food truck come out. Let me tell you, I had some of the most awesome tacos off that truck, and I’m looking forward to some more this year!

Want a turn-key 1835cc complete custom motor for $20? Well, had you been there, you would have had a chance: Black Sunday Aircooled donated a beautifully detailed 1835cc monster motor, with raffle tickets going for a mere $20 each! Even Editor Leadbetter couldn’t resist buying a couple. When the big time came, Ben Jara walked away with the motor. (In an ironic twist, Ben also won the show’s award for Best Engine with his beautiful Karmann Ghia!) When all was said and done, $500 from the engine raffle

Every type of VW you could imagine filled up the parking lot at The Lodge at Big Bear Lake.

Ben Jara walked away with the top raffle prize an 1835cc motor built by Black Sunday Aircooled. Ben also won the show’s Best Engine award with his Karmann Ghia (below). $500 from the raffle proceeds was donated to the Widows, Orphans, and Disabled Firefighter’s Fund.

went to the Widows, Orphans, and Disabled Firefighter’s Fund. We LOVE how generous the VW community is.

There were tons of prizes donated by some very generous companies such as Extreme Powdercoating, Rababak Performance, A-1 Muffler, The Volks Gallery, Wide 5 Restorations, Us Against Them, VW Trends, and others. The promoters would also like to thank Mizar Martin ( @ mzrmrtn) for designing the event flyer as well as the event logo.

Your pals from VW Trends were on hand selling subscriptions, swag, and more!

EVENT RESULTS Best of Show: Marco Flores Oldest VW: Marco Flores Best Paint: Vivian Gonzalez Hotel’s Choice: David Solorzano Most Original: Steven Hernandez Best Patina: Anthony Salazar (DubFolks) Best Interior: Jose Rhino Benitez (DubFolks) Best Engine: Ben Jara Engine Raffle Winner: Ben Jara Bike Winner: Arlene Garcia Rick Barcena took 50/50 SPONSORS Extreme Powdercoating Rababak Performance A-1 Muffler The Volks Gallery Wide 5 Restorations 1835 engine built by Black Sunday Aircooled

Raffle prizes were donated by some very generous companies such as EMPI, Bill & Steve’s, VW Trends, and more.

After a fun day on the mountain, nobody wants to go home, so the Big Bair folks threw an amazing after-party in one of the conference rooms of the hotel. People hung out, had a few drinks, played some games, listened to music, and just had a great time.

Bottom line: The Big Bair Takeover is a great way to spend a fall day … and night!

Mark your calendars for the next Big Bair Takeover on Saturday, October 1, 2022.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 31

You may remember Eric Nelson’s Baja Ghia from the Readers’ Rides section of the Fall 2021 issue of VW Trends.

There were lots of water-cooled Volkswagens at the show, but this purple New Beetle really caught our eye.

Shaun from Slow Ride Garage in Hesperia brought his original-paint ’63 Type 34.

VolksStyle VW Club was in attendance and brought out several really clean VWs.

We had to do a double-take on this Bug with Garfield graphics.

This Bus sports a safari window in the front as well as a cyclops light.

When was the last time you saw a Puma?

These are the coolest VW-based cars ever.

There’s patina and then there’s PATINA. We can dig it.

We were digging the club sticker, and then we looked closer and saw all the homie gnomes! How cool is that?

Buggies are making a HUGE comeback!

(Did they ever really leave?) This one was really clean.

This ’66 Type I, named Selena, is owned

by Diamond Girl. Safari windshield, custom interior — a really beautiful Bug!

32 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

34 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

After 35 years, Billy F. Gibbons’ custom ‘vert comes out of hiding Story and photography by Eric Geisert

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 35

SHE DON’T LOVE ME SHE LOVES MY AUTOMOBILE BUT SHE WOULD DO ANYTHING JUST TO SLIDE BEHIND THE WHEEL

O

ne doesn’t really need to study genealogy to discover there is a path through history to which we all have a connection. But studying the DNA of a particular vehicle can be interesting: Why was it built the way that it was, and with the parts that were used?

Back in the ’80s there was a small group of folks who were not only influential in the world of custom Volkswagens, but who heavily influenced each other. Take Randy Zeleny of Randy’s VW Parts in Colorado. You may remember his chopped Porsche Raspberry convertible Bug (with working top and suicide doors) from the January 1985 cover of VW Trends.

But also living in Colorado and building VWs at that time were Dale and Denny Johns — two brothers in their early 20s who were just starting out with their D&D Specialties business (one that continues to this day, now based in Van Buren, Arkansas). D&D was first profiled in the February ’85 issue of VW Trends with a 5-inchchop ragtop sedan nicknamed Painter’s Pride that, because of the expert paint and extensive bodywork, helped put the brothers on the map.

The Johns brothers used to buy parts from Randy’s for their projects, which soon included a red and black ’62 convertible that used ’57 fenders, suicide doors, a 3.5-inch chop, and Porsche alloys — a car that was featured in the December ’86 issue of Trends.

One day around this time the brothers were hanging out with their cars in a hotel parking lot in Houston, Texas, the day before a car show. A guy rolled up in his car, rolled down his window, and chatted for a while. Easily recognizable, the man behind the sunglasses was Billy F. Gibbons, the singer and guitarist for ZZ Top, one of the biggest rock bands of all time.

This was about the same time as the group’s Eliminator album had been released, and the worldwide fame that would be thrust

The late-model, 4-bolt wheels use Porsche crest ‘caps and deep rings on all four corners. Gibbons has a “thing” about ’59 Cadillac taillights (he’s used them on other cars he’s owned).

These were tunneled by Dale Johns of D&D Specialties.

ZZ

36 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

upon them after the debut of a brand new communication medium: MTV. The Music Television channel featured a trio of ZZ Top videos in heavy rotation and helped catapult the Lil’ Ol’ Band from Texas to stardom.

As you might guess, Gibbons knows cool when he sees it, and D&D’s chopped red ’vert stopped him in his tracks (see photo below).

After some discussions, Billy decided the brothers should be the ones to build him an over-the-top VW of his own.

Work on the Bug that would become known as the Pearl Necklace started soon One day Dale after, with Dale finding a suitable ’59 conand Denny vertible for Billy to begin the project. The Johns were car’s foundation is a ’69 IRS pan to which hanging out Porsche steelies with their n’ caps were addcars in a hotel ed, along with an parking lot in 1835cc engine Houston, Texas, fed by a single the day before a Dellorto 36 car show. A guy DRLA carb. And rolled up in his don’t forget the pigtail wiring! It wouldn’t car, rolled down be an ’80s Bug without pigtail wiring. his window, and The list of body mods for the car was chatted for a impressive, but made even more so by the while. fact that Dale was learning how to do some of the work as he went along.

The most difficult mod Dale worked on were the car’s flip-up headlights. He first had to get rid of the stock fender’s headlight bulge (he used a portion of the opposite corner’s rear fender). Then he had to figure out how to scratchbuild the rotating headlight assembly and lid cover.

Early construction photos show a large rectangular hole where the assembly would go. Dale designed the system such that in the off position, the square headlights face down toward the ground.

When the headlight switch is thrown, the headlights rotate up and

Remember Sun Spec mirrors? They’re still around (the company is based in Missouri). Billet aluminum was just becoming popular when this car was built, and Sun Spec’s mirrors were a must-have.

cause the cover to move up and behind the headlight as it comes into its operating position.

Other custom tricks, such as frenching the ’59 Cadillac taillights into the rear fenders or swapping hinges to make the suicide doors, were comparatively less complicated. The convertible top was also altered: It has no rear window, and Dale chopped the mechanism to match the car’s now-lower windshield height while making sure it still worked so Billy could profile in top-down mode.

Once the body mods were complete, Dale covered both the body and pan in black lacquer, then added gray, pink, and maroon graphics down the side of the car that met in front of the windshield and flowed down the middle of the hood.

Incorporated into the graphics is the instantly-recognizable ZZ logo, which was also prominent in the band’s red ’33 Ford Eliminator coupe.

With a smoothed-out dash, the interior was similar to most of the custom Bugs D&D built. But for Billy, this one was fitted with a JVC head unit and EQ/amp along with a standard VW speedo and a Formul-

The most difficult body modification for Dale Johns was the car’s flip-up headlights. He had to make extensive mods to the front fenders to incorporate the headlight cover.

When the headlights are off, they point downward. When turned on, they rotate upward and the cover slides up and behind the headlight.

Dale Johns found this ’59 convertible to serve as a donor body for the project.

The car that would eventually become Pearl Necklace sits on a ’69 IRS pan.

Here’s the headlight as a work in progress. Dale Johns was learning to do some of this work as he went along.

Once the body mods were finished, Dale sprayed the car in black lacquer and added “ZZ” graphics to the sides. Denny Johns custom-sewed two kinds of gray velour to create the interior.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 37

ZZ

Denny Johns (the younger of the two brothers) used two shades and two types of fabric on the gray velour interior. The bucket seats are from a Datsun, while a JVC cassette deck, speakers, and combination amp-equalizer kept Billy rockin’.

It’s a bit worse for wear, but for being a 35-year-old time capsule, the 1835 engine is fairly intact. It’s fed by a single Dellorto 36 DRLA carb, and accommodations were made for the large AC compressor.

ing three-spoke steering wheel mounted to a milled aluminum column.

Denny, who had been trained in upholstery by his dad Ed Johns, stitched up the car’s door panels and Datsun bucket seats using different shades and textures of gray velour, and he installed gray German squareweave carpet.

One other interior addition: The air conditioning vents, one at each end of the dash, meant a cumbersome AC unit needed to be mounted off the motor and a maze of ducting laid out under the car’s hood.

Aluminum Sun Spec side mirrors were then added to the tops of each door, and the engine’s tin was sprayed with pink paint.

After the car was completed Gibbons

ZZ

38 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

Pearl Necklace was built right after the famous Eliminator coupe was featured in a trio of MTV music videos in the mid-80s. Both cars incorporate the ZZ logo into their side graphics.

and a trio of girls posed with it for a studio photo shoot. Those shots were subsequently featured in both the August ’87 issue of VW Trends and on the cover of the very first issue of Europe’s Volksworld magazine. But for nearly 35 years, the car was never seen in public — that is, until it surprised everyone by popping up in unrestored and original condition at the massive celebration of important and historic VWs at the 2022 Grand National Roadster Show in Pomona, California, still owned by Gibbons.

As for Dale and Denny, they continued building cars (longtime readers of Trends might remember the Rodbuster: a suicide-doored, fenderless, topless red roadster on the cover of the June ’88 issue). While

still operating under the D&D Specialties banner, the brothers have expanded their footprint and clientele and are regularly featured at Goodguys hot-rod car shows.

As for Gibbons, well, who’s to say? An estimated 50 million albums sold, tours that have circled the planet many times over, a car collection with some of the most iconic hot rods of all time (the Eliminator and CadZZilla to name just two), and the #32 spot on Rolling Stone’s list of 100 Greatest Guitarists? He’s still Bad and Nationwide.

One thing’s for certain: With all their success, Dale and Denny Johns and Billy F. Gibbons can trace their automotive DNA back to the venerable Volkswagen Bug.

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T

HAIL TO THE KING, BABY! There’s a new carb in town, and VW Trends gets the exclusive first look

By Dan Leadbetter • Photos by Rich Crafton and Dan Leadbetter 42 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

he word carburetor comes from carbure, the French word meaning “carbide.” So “to carburet” means to combine with carbon — or in fuel chemistry, to combine hydrocarbons (good ol’ gasoline) with a gas (in this case, oxygen), thus increasing available fuel energy. Up until the late 80s, when fuel injection became the preferred delivery method, carburetors facilitated the air/fuel mixture for just about all gasoline-powered motors.

Let’s look at how a carb works. Most of you reading this are gearheads, but for those of us that just put gas in the tank and pray to God the engine starts up, here’s a very basic primer. The carb provides your cylinder heads with a mixture of air and fuel to make your vehicle run. Contrary to popular belief, the gas pedal (or throttle) does NOT control the amount of gas going into the carb. When you step on the throttle, it starts the air flow mechanisms in the carburetor to meter the flow of air coming into the engine. The speed of this air flow (and its pressure) determines the amount of fuel that is ultimately packed into the cylinder heads to be ignited and turned into horsepower.

Okay, enough history and mechanics; let’s talk VWs. Any VW enthusiast knows that the stock carburetion system is perfectly fine for runs to the store and back and for daily driving in general. But if you REALLY want to get the most out of your modified or high-performance VW motor, you’ll probably want a larger single carb, or ultimately a large dual-carburetor setup.

Anyone who’s been a performance VW enthusiast for any length of time knows that the crowning jewel for your street motor has always been a set of Weber 48IDA carbs. They’ve been around forever, and have been the choice of racers and street VWs since the ’70s. They’re big and mean, have an unmistakable growl when floored, and make any engine compartment look like it deserves a speeding ticket, even while standing still. Yep, they were the carb of choice for many, many years.

Until now, that is. The masterminds at JayCee Engineering have released a brandnew carburetor that’s head and shoulders above ANYTHING out there. Maybe a set will find a home in your engine compartment! Let’s pull back the veil and see what

 Before and after. On the left is the 16-pound block of of 6061 T-6 aluminum. After 6 hours of milling, this block of nothing is turned into a fire-breathing (not to mention stellar-looking) carburetor that’s fit for a show car. You can dismantle the carb to powder coat or anodize it any color you want. Or just leave it bare aluminum — either way, it’s a work of art!

the story is with these new carbs.

Jack Sachette, the head of JayCee Enterprises, knows about speed — VW speed in particular. As an avid racer, Jack knew firsthand the limitation of the 48IDA for racing. Rather than spend a bunch of time reworking, rebuilding, and retrofitting 48IDAs for his particular needs, he reached out to EMPI (JayCee’s parent company) about building a brand-new carb, for both the street and the drag strip. EMPI was interested, so Jack got busy designing the carb of his (and our) dreams. He took the best of the carbs he knew and loved and improved upon them. And after many, many hours of design and tooling, he had a brand-new design.

Much like the amp in This is Spinal Tap, these carbs go to 11 ! Let’s look at just how cool these hot new carbs are.

 The specs are fed to the CNC machine, then the six-hour party starts! That aluminum block is milled six ways to Sunday to create a work of art that could end up in your VW.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 43

The body of the JayCee BGD carb is really taking shape. It’s got some more hours to go before it’s ready to be assembled. We really like that grooved, milled look!

 Jack wanted to make sure that folks using the carb for racing had a larger float bowl to allow for plenty of fuel during those quarter-mile jaunts. He was able to squeeze a whopping 167ccs into the carb! Much larger than your standard 48IDA. You could modify the 48IDA to create a bigger float bowl, but that’s a lot of work. Why do that when you can get the JayCee BGD right off the shelf?

AIRFLOW COMPARISON 48mm IDA/EPC, 37mm venturi 48mm IDA/EPC, 46mm venturi

315cfm 325cfm

48mm IDA/EPC modified to 51.5/52mm, 50mm 350-375cfm venturi 58mm JayCee BGD, 50mm venturi

465cfm

FUEL CAPACITY

It’s all about the aluminum Much like a sculpture begins as raw stone, the JayCee BGD carb starts life as a 16-pound block of 6061 T-6 aluminum — superior by far to other cast alloys when it comes to strength and durability. This billet construction eliminates the porosity associated with aluminum castings. To maintain a strict level of quality control, all machining is done in-house at JayCee. It takes about 6 hours to machine the carb body and venturis … all good things come to those who wait!

44 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

We had the opportunity to watch a carb being milled, and the precision and attention to detail are nothing short of amazing. Side note: it’s really nice to see an American-made set of carbs!

Three sizes fit all Jack realized that people would use this carb in a wide variety of applications, so it made sense to offer several sizes. The JayCee BGD comes in 48mm, 52mm, and 58mm sizes — plenty of possibilities for onand off-road applications, as well as racing.

48 IDA/EPC

98cc

Berg 58mm

104cc

Terminator 62mm

158cc

48, 52, 58 JayCee BGD

167cc

I’m sure you’re thinking, “These are badass, but if I ditch my 48IDAs for the 52mm BGD, I’ll need new manifolds.”

Think again! The BGD’s bolt pattern is the same as the Weber 48IDA and EMPI EPC manifolds. So swapping out your tired 48s for the BGD is super simple, even if you want to upgrade to 58mm model. Plus there’s no need to spend your hard-earned dollars on additional tuning components: The air, main, idle, and pump jets and emulsion tubes are interchangeable with EPC and Weber 48IDAs.

 Here’s Jack testing the 58mm BGD on the flow bench. It was able to move more than 465 CFM! It’s safe to say this baby has some lungs.

We’re gonna need a bigger bowl Jack had a specific wish list to get maximum performance out of these aluminum monsters. One of those items was a bigger float bowl. When you’re doing super-fast quarter-mile blasts, you need to make sure you’ve got ample fuel without having to run high fuel pressures. To that end, the JayCee BGD carb float bowl is expanded to hold 167ccs of fuel. That helps ensure there’s plenty of fuel at the ready when the Christmas tree hits green!

As you can see, these aren’t your father’s carburetors. With all of the innovation, attention to detail, and sheer good looks, the JayCee BGD aluminum carbs are sure to be the new gold standard in street and strip fuel distribution. If you’re looking for something a little different and a lot more hardcore, you’ll want to give the JayCee BGD carbs a look-see!

 The BGD carb bolt pattern is engineered to be the same as the Weber 48IDA and EMPI EPC manifolds.

JayCee Enterprises 301 E. Orangethorpe Ave. Anaheim, CA 92801 (714) 444-4344 jayceevw.com

 Got something with twice the cylinders of your standard air-cooled VW? No problem! Check out this four-carb setup for a V8. It’s not even on the motor and it looks like it’s going 100 MPH!

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 45

TEST DRIVE

THE VOLKSWAGEN ID.4 ▲ No, Dan. That’s not where the gas goes. No, it’s ... where? NO. You definitely don’t put it there. You know what? Just never mind.

VW sings the body electric — and foolishly hands us the keys RICH’S TAKE

OVERVIEW: Newsflash! Electric VWs are nothing new: In 1972 the T2 Camper was invented with an electric drivetrain (and whopping 2k pound battery), then nearly a decade later the The Golf CityStromer was introduced (with various iterations over the coming years). Although these fine innovations didn’t live long after their release, they helped pave the way for the small miracles we drive today.

FIRST IMPRESSION: The team from the Drive Shop pulled up with the very slick silver ID.4, handed me the key, and quickly darted into a waiting Uber before I could ask a single question. This was 100 percent going to be a lesson in trial and error because let’s be serious, who has time to read the manual?

Twenty minutes later I’m still sitting in the driver’s seat desperately trying to figure out how to start the damned engine!

46 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

Ugh. I opened the manual. “Switching on the ignition: Depress the brake pedal and press the starter button once. The starter button is located on the left of the steering column.” So yeah: You’re going to need to read that 415-page manual before you sit your sorry ass down in the extremely comfortable leather seat … oh my. Needless to say, I’m what they call “old school,” or more

The ID.4 AWD Pro S — priced between $45k and $50k depending on options — delivers a satisfying look and feel for a small SUV.

accurately, old and in need of schooling.

This car is more like a flight simulator than any vehicle I’ve ever driven, and it’s going to require some study time to enjoy it fully.

Pay attention; there will be a test later.

Once I put my time into learning a thing or twenty, my scowl quickly turned into a delighted smile. This electrified space capsule has some serious pep — 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque, with a 5.4-second zero to 60 launch — enough to push my head back with surprising vigor.

WHAT I LIKED: The folks at Volkswagen really know how to design an interior cabin that is minimal in feel, yet maxed-out in gadgetry and function. The sleek, arching lines of the dashboard and side walls seamlessly come together and create a cocoon. It’s easy on the eyes, and although I’ve seen similar styles on the road, it has an upper-class attraction. Makes you want to valet the car at a fancy restaurant just to

Based on our experience, you’ll definitely want the optional L2 for home charging. It will provide a full charge in about 7.5 hours. A full battery will give you a 240-mile range in normal driving conditions.

show off how wealthy, yet practical you are (for the record, I am neither of these things, but it felt good to pretend). As mentioned above, I really liked the response of the engine when foot meets pedal — there was the tiniest lag at times, but for the most part, it was on point. Handling was easy and comfortable: Sport mode gave it a bit more tightness around corners and the confidence to maneuver quickly in tight traffic.

WHAT COULD BE BETTER: Unless you grew up with an iPad in your crib, you’re probably going to need some time to get acquainted with all the functions this car provides. I’m positive I only used 10 percent of what was available, but I did figure out how to turn the radio and air-conditioning on and off. (That gets me a solid C on my report card.) I felt it could have been more user-friendly to operate. The other item I experienced as less than expected was the charge: I charged it with the standard 110volt L1 charger provided by VW, and the

needle moved only about 12 percent after 8 hours of plug-in time. You’ll need the optional L2 for faster charging.

BOTTOM LINE: After driving the ID.4 for several days I really grew fond of it and was sad to have to give it to Dan. I missed it. Cars are funny that way: They can impress you with their looks, aggravate you to the point of cursing, and force you to learn something new. Ultimately they can be a hoot, an enjoyable experience in getting from point A to point B, or just driving for the pure joy of it. The ID.4 did all that for me.

RICH’S RATING: •••••

DAN’S TAKE

OVERVIEW: When Rich told me he was getting the ID.4 for us to test, I wasn’t too excited. I’ve always been a “small car” guy (which is funny, since I’m not a small guy at all). I had never driven an electric vehicle before, so I was a little intimidated. But

I put aside my fear of the unknown and decided to give this SUV a fair shake and a real test ride. I’m glad I did, because driving this around for a few days changed my whole opinion of electric vehicles and SUVs in general.

WHAT I LIKED: One of the nicest, most well-appointed interiors I’ve seen in a very long time. Just from an aesthetic standpoint, you’d be hard pressed to find a nicer interior at this price point. One thing I’ve always loved about VW is their finely crafted ergonomics. The ID.4 really gives the driver the feeling of always being in control. All the buttons and knobs are perfectly placed, and I never felt like I had to lean forward to make any changes. The leather interior feels luxurious, like something you’d find in a vehicle costing twice as much. VW has always had a keen eye for detail, and the ID.4 has it all.

Let’s talk about power: OMG, I was completely caught off guard by the response of

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 47

The steering wheel console displays a myriad of information at a glance, and there’s a mid-console touchscreen (not pictured) to access everything from navigation to diagnostics. Simple, flowing lines of the interior continue the minimalist approach Volkswagen is known for.

the accelerator! It’s a good thing I had my seat belt on, otherwise, I might have ended up in the rear cargo hold. Make no mistake, this thing has POWER! And I hadn’t even played with Sport Mode yet. I LOVE being able to get on the freeway and quickly get up to (read, way past) the speed limit.

Passing cars was incredibly simple and the response was instantaneous.

The car features Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Custom modes. I have to tell you, I never made it out of Eco and Sport. At first I thought it only had one setting. I stumbled on the others by accident. But once I got into Sport mode, all bets were off. I was hooked by the raw power this thing put out. I didn’t bother trying to do a “seat of the pants” 0 to 60 test; I was having too much fun going 55 to 80 (which felt like 1.5 seconds). Power is on tap here, and it’s addicting! To be clear, Eco mode is still pretty nimble, and will definitely get more miles to the charge, but Sport mode …. DAMN, DUDE! I really enjoyed the roomy interior. I have a bad neck, and getting into cars/SUVs can be a challenge. Not here! I could easily get in and out of this thing with little effort. Plenty of cargo space means you can go to Costco and pack a week’s worth of groceries in the back, and STILL have plenty of room for anything else you want to haul.

WHAT COULD BE BETTER: Level 1 charging is REALLY

48 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

Lots of room: a 30.3 cubic-foot trunk (64.2 cubic feet with seats folded). The home charging cable is stored in a dedicated trunk compartment.

slow. I left it to charge overnight (8 solid hours) and it only went from 48 to 56 percent. I’d almost want to see a reserve battery feature, should you find yourself with a little charge left and miles to the next charging station. You’ll definitely want to get the fast charger installed in your garage.

In Sport mode, it’s easy to drain the battery.

I’m sure as technology moves forward, battery power and range will both increase.

Much like a new cell phone, you really need to read the manual. The first-timer learning curve is a little steep. It took me a while to figure out where everything was on the touch screen, but when I did, everything was good to go. Something a tiny bit more user friendly would have been nice. These are minor complaints when you compare it to the benefits this Volkswagen brings to the party.

BOTTOM LINE: Like I said before, I’m not an SUV guy, but lemme tell you, I’m super excited about the Volkswagen ID.4! It’s got everything I’d want in an affordable, luxury electric SUV. It’s got great styling, amazing details, a super powerful electric motor, AND it changed my mind about what an SUV can be! Even given the things I mentioned in the growth areas, I would still totally buy this Volkswagen, and you should too!

DAN’S RATING: ••••••

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BAT TERIES NOT INCLUDED. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. SOME ASSEMBLY REQUIRED. YOUR MILEAGE MAY VARY. SOME CARS NOT FOR USE WITH SOME SETS. OPINIONS EXPRESSED ARE THE AUTHOR’S AND DO NOT REPRESENT THE VIEWS OF CYBERDYNE SYSTEMS. PAST PERFORMANCE IS NOT A RELIABLE INDICATOR OF FUTURE RESULTS. USE AT YOUR OWN RISK. DO NOT INGEST. OFFER VALID ONLY AT PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS. CASH VALUE 1/100TH OF A CENT. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED. PROFESSIONAL DRIVER ON CLOSED COURSE. MAY CONTAIN NUTS. RESULTS NOT T YPICAL. PARENTAL GUIDANCE ADVISED. USE ONLY IN A WELL-VENTIL ATED AREA. ASK YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST. NOT A TOY. SOLD BY WEIGHT, NOT VOLUME. THIS SUPERSEDES ALL PREVIOUS DISCL AIMERS.

50 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

Sometimes it’s not just about the car.

Story and photography by Jeff Roberts

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 51

D

o you remember the first VW magazine you ever saw?

Bob Daniels of West Chester, Pennsylvania does. Bob was only 13 years old when he first laid eyes on the June 1987 issue of VW Trends. That issue had the “Future Shock” Notchback on the cover. That was the day, Bob says, that changed his life forever. Every month after that, he waited and waited for each issue to arrive. Year after year, month after month, Bob religiously read the VW magazines, analyzing every detail.

You know how there’s alway that “one” car that makes an impression? When the August 1990 issue of VW Trends arrived, that issue had that one car that Bob couldn’t stop staring at.

“I’m not sure if it was the paint, the stance, the giant rear tires with the skinnys up front,” Bob says. “Not sure exactly, but I knew I needed one just like it.”

It would be years before Bob built a Buggy, but when he saw an ad for a set of Mickey Thompson tires that were the same size as the Buggy in the magazine, he bought them.

In 1995 he finally decided it was time. He placed a want ad in the paper, found a buggy body, and got to work.

When you’re trying to copy another car, it’s best to talk to the builder. In 1995 tracking people down wasn’t as easy as it is today, but using some details in the magazine and 555-1212 (remember that?), Bob found the builder: Doug Jerger from Mesa, Arizona.

Back then, that name meant very little to Bob, but he called Doug to pick his brain. Bob was extremely appreciative that Doug took the time to tell him some details that the magazine didn’t. Using every bit of information from the magazine and his call with Doug as a guide, Bob got to work in his grandmother’s garage.

He chopped the windshield the same amount as Doug had. The main roll-bar hoop is larger than the rest of the tubes, because that’s how Doug did it.

He used the same exhaust as Doug (though he has recently replaced it). He used the same gas tank, the same seats, and mounted the headlights in the same fashion as Doug so they sit closer to the body. Most importantly, Bob finally used those Mickey Thompson tires he bought years earlier. The tires and wheels gave the car that pro-street stance that was so popular in the late ’80s and ’90s.

52 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

It’s important to note that Bob painted the car twice. His first attempt to mimic the fade on Doug’s car was a miserable failure. He was going to repaint it Ford Grabber Blue, but his sister Kelly suggested orange. Bob figured if you mixed all the colors of Doug’s car together, you would most likely get orange anyway.

So there you have it. Fast forward about 15 years. 555-1212 had been replaced with Google and social media. Just out of curiosity, Bob found Doug on Facebook, and sent him a message to see if he even remembered the phone call.

Unbelievably, Doug did. That phone call and Facebook message have created a longtime friendship between the two.

Because Bob was not only a VW guy — he also read magazines like Hot Rod and Street Rodder — he realized Doug was the son of the famous Squeeg of Squeeg’s Kustoms. Bob and Doug have hung out at the Goodguys Nationals and at the Grand National Roadster Show. Ever hear of a little award called “America’s Most Beautiful Roadster?” Well, Doug has now won that award not once, but twice. Bob says he feels a little starstruck by the fact that he calls Doug a friend.

Okay, so maybe it was a little about the car, but ultimately it’s about friendship. To many of us who didn’t grow up in SoCal, or Arizona, or anywhere with a strong local car culture, our connection to the hobby was through monthly magazines. You may have read about someone, maybe even idolized someone, in the magazines yourself. While the ’80s and ’90s may have been great times, we’re living in a great time today.

If you were one of those guys who read about people in a magazine, I encourage you to use the technology of today and look these people up, like Bob did. You may be star-struck at first, but these guys are just like you and me. And who knows? Maybe you’ll build a lifelong friendship with someone as well.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 53

TECH

 1. John starts by mapping out a grid of 6-inch squares onto the roof of the Oval.

He prefers working in millimeters instead of inches, as well as using two points of reference to confirm the measurements.

The iconic Beetle’s roofline didn’t change for decades, making it easier for Grumpy’s Metal to develop their ragtop.

THROUGH THE ROOF Installing Grumpy’s 2-Fold Ragtop by Eric Geisert

J

ohn Alba, the 47-year-old owner of be interchanged with original-equipment Grumpy’s Metal (based in both Texas ragtop pieces. Though 2-folds are usually and Southern California), figured out found on 1956 to 1963.5 Bugs and 3-fold on decades ago that folks like Alpine sky 1955 and earlier, John says either can be put windows in their Buses and ragtops in their in either year as the roofline didn’t change vintage sedans, and he figured out a way to its shape until the debut of the Super Beetle give the people what they want. in 1971.

Back in early 2000s Alba designed Though they developed 3-fold rag kits 10 a hydraulic press that years ago, Grumpy’s only can punch factory-look recently brought their Grumpy’s Metal window openings into 2-fold kit to market: Lots (714) 328-1028 an existing Bus roof (i.e., of folks, especially Split @grumpysmetal making a 23-window and Oval owners, now grumpysmetal.com Bus out of a 15-window). want a sliding ragtop in Because the factory roof their ride. Alba oversees remains intact, there’s no the fabrication of all need for any welding. Grumpy’s also offers Grumpy’s products outside Dallas, and the their own ragtop for any pre-’68 Bus, and Huntington Beach facility where Alpine they make rear side window pieces to consky windows and all ragtops are installed is vert a 11-window into a 13-window and up. run by Andy Elsner.

More than 15 years ago Grumpy’s develVW Trends followed the procedure as oped a couple of weld-in kits that add either Grumpy’s took to cutting a big hole in the a 2- or 3-fold ragtop to a solid-roof Bug, roof of an Oval-window sedan and installed and the pieces are so well made they can the first of their 2-fold rags.

54 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

 2. Though the roof narrows in width toward the front of the car, the ragtop’s frame is rectangular. The key is finding the centerline of the roof and measuring out from that point.

 3. Once the centerline of the roof is found, this template (screwed in place) finds where the edges of the front, rear, and side of the framework will be, and is then flipped over on the centerline to find the driver side’s edge.

 6. The Grumpy’s 2-fold framework (which is about 8 inches shorter than a 3-fold) is assembled and attached from the inside of the car, not on top of the new opening.

 9. The leading edge of the framework is also measured, scribed, and cut for a perfect fit before welding.

 4. Based on his measurements, John starts by drilling four 2-inch holes for the round corners of the framework.

 7. Just like the factory 2-fold ragtop, the Grumpy’s Metal inner structure (on the right) has the bead feature found on the leading edge of the framework.

 10. A scribe marks the roof for cutting …

 and  5. Using an air chisel, John makes a rough cut inside the edge marks and connects the holes, which drops the roof section down and out of the car.

 8. To find where the leading edge of the framework will go, the rough cut is trimmed back so the frame can be inserted and measured.

 11. … and the framework is also trimmed.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 55

 12. Only the leading edge of the framework will be TIG welded. The other three edges will be spot welded.

 15. Spot welds are added on the side and rear sections and are less than an inch apart. The cleco holes will be TIG welded, too.

 13. With the rest of the framework cleco’d in place from underneath, the final look begins to appear.

 18. The rough edges of the roof can now be trimmed back to a uniform distance.

 16. 131 spot welds later, the 2-fold framework is in its final place.  19. This is the rest of the 2-fold kit (the frame is also included) as shipped by Grumpy’s Metal.

 and  14. Using a Pro Spot 11 welder, Grumpy’s Greg Krangnes starts spot welding the framework into place.

 17. After being tacked in place, the leading edge can now be finish TIG welded.

56 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

 20. Without the top material, the ragtop’s sliding mechanism can be easily seen. The piece that covers the rear edge of the assembly will be screwed into the roof by the upholsterer after the car is painted.

Complete Powdercoat Engine Tin Kits

VW ENGINE DUAL PORT

CYLINDER SHROUDS

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• INCLUDES AIR VANE • THICKER GAUGE STEEL • CORRECT FLANGE AND HOLES

Patent Pending Gaskets Venturi Rings

New Thermostats

Industrial Shields

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VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 57

58 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

When everything around you stops, the best thing to do is build a Ghia!

Story and photography by Nate Henderson

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 59

Robbie and Kyle at Alpha Auto Body in Alpha, New Jersey did the body and paint work. Justin chose Porsche Copper Brown Metallic, which was available on certain 911, 912, and 928 models from 1974 to 1980.

J

ustin Pennington’s love for VWs began when he was a kid in Iowa.

He was always rummaging through junkyards looking for parts for his older brother’s Beetle. They worked tirelessly on the car, and even gave it a flawless, show-worthy rattle-can paint job. Justin was so proud of their efforts that he wanted the car for his own when he was able to drive. Unfortunately, his brother traded it, so Justin never had the chance to own it.

Losing out on that car is probably why Justin seems to never sell anything. His collection keeps growing. He now lives in Branchburg, New Jersey, and he still has his first VW, a ’75 standard Beetle. He also has a ’71 Formula Vee Convertible Beetle and a ’71 Westfalia Bus. You see what’s missing? A Karmann Ghia!

In some respects, the world shut down in March 2020. Many of us were given free time that we normally didn’t have. Some decided to paint their bedrooms; some landscaped their property; and some of us just ate, ate some more, and got FAT!

60 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

Pete Werfel of Phillipsburg, New Jersey built the 2276cc engine. He used an Autolinea aluminum super case with an AA 82mm crank, AA H-beam rods, and 94mm pistons. Fuel is delivered via dual 44IDF Webers to the CB Panchito 044 heads, while spent gas exits through the polished stainless A-1 exhaust.

But Justin used his time If you thought that Justin wisely: He decided to build may only be a fair-weather a Karmann Ghia to round enthusiast, let me ask you, out his collection. On April who puts heat in a VW any11th Justin went to look at a more? Someone who plans 1970 Ghia that appeared to on using their car all the be a good potential project. time, that’s who!

Overall, the car wasn’t too Not knowing how much bad. It was a perfect driver, longer his “free time” was rust-free with very few going to last, Justin wasted bumps and bruises — someno time ordering the interithing you don’t see in the or. The fit is perfect, and why Northeast as often as you’d wouldn’t it be: It all came like. The deal was made, from Sewfine Products in and Justin brought the Ghia Denver, Colorado. Justin home. picked Chamois SymphoJustin began by doing all ny synthetic leather for the suspension work himthe door panels and seats, Sewfine Products supplied the Chamois Symphony synthetic leather for self. He used the stock beam with custom French seams the door panels and seats, with custom french seams instead of piping.

The carpet is Oatmeal German square-weave, and the headliner is but added EMPI dropped instead of piping. He picked spindles. For stopping power Oatmeal tweed. A leather-wrapped Formula Vee wheel, custom 8K ISP Oatmeal German squaretachometer, and recessed dash tweeters round out the interior. he added EMPI disc brakes weave for the carpet, and an with drilled and slotted Oatmeal tweed headliner rotors to all four corners. A couple of clicks VW’s family member Porsche. Ultimately completed his Sewfine order. The last order lower in the rear, a set of EMPI alloys with he chose Porsche Copper Brown Metallic. of business was to install the interior parts, center caps hand-painted by Justin, and the He had already priced materials for a differ- and he did just that, all himself: There’s stance was complete. ent color, and when he ordered a leather-wrapped Formula Vee steering Justin then sent the Ghia to the new paint, he realized that wheel, a custom 8K ISP tachometer, and Robbie and Kyle at Alpha Auto This car was this wouldn’t be an inexpensive recessed dash tweeters. At this point the Body in Alpha, New Jersey to built in six change. We won’t say how much interior was complete, as was the entire car. do the body and paint. Since months. Many more the pearls in this paint This car was completely built in a span the car was pretty solid, the of us just cost, but let’s just say it was of about six months! Think about that for only major repair was replacing sat around more than quite a bit! a moment. Many of us sat around getting the driver’s rocker and heater getting fat, Justin’s friend Pete Werfel of fat, but Justin built an entire car! Man, who channel. The wraparound front but Justin Phillipsburg, New Jersey used feels a bit lazy now? turn signals were swapped built an entire an Autolinea aluminum super Jokes aside, Justin says this couldn’t for the earlier bullet style, and car. case to build a 2276cc engine. have happened without some good friends. the rear side reflectors were The powerplant uses an AA He wants to thank the members of the removed.

82mm crank, AA H-Beam rods, Central Jersey Volkswagen Society as well Now the car was ready for paint. What AA 94mm Pistons, and AA rockers. Fuel is as the Filthy Buggers car clubs. Hopefully color? Justin was leaning towards stock delivered via dual 44IDF Webers to the CB a story like Justin’s gets you inspired to VW shades, but not finding what he wantPanchito 044 Heads, and gas exits through get off your butt and get some work done! ed, he went looking at paint colors from the polished stainless A-1 exhaust.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a cleaner trunk. Check out the owner’s manual and full-color sales brochure.

All four corners sport EMPI disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors and EMPI Porschereplica alloys with hand-painted caps.

Full-range 6.5" speakers and a Kenwood KSC-SW11 subwoofer are mounted on a beautiful backboard.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 61

TOP TECH

TIN

Think there’s nothing new in the world of VW engine tin? Think again.

by Dave “KaferDave” Cormack

 Awesome Powdercoat’s cylinder tins with directional vane included. They offer threadedhole tins for single-carb heat riser setups (shown) and unthreaded for dual-carb setups.

Theirs is nearly a half-pound heavier than typical aftermarket tin.

 Left to right: Compare the thickness of the OEM German (.0265"), aftermarket (.023"), and Awesome Powdercoat tin (.0405"). Note that the aftermarket tin has no internal air vane, but the OEM German and Awesome Powdercoat tins do.

L

et’s face it: Our beloved air-cooled cars are, well, OLD. They’ve can feel the difference when you pick up the tins. The new tin is been driven for many years, and sometimes literally millions noticeably heavier — the piece we tested outweighed common of miles, and have suffered the ravages of time. One of the more aftermarket tin by seven ounces. And when you compare it to other common problems in the engine is the upper cylinder tin. It gets aftermarket tin, Awesome Powdercoat’s new tin really shines. banged on, dented, and cracked from hard use and vibration.

For starters, Awesome Powdercoat’s tins include the cooling None of the currently available aftermarket cylinder tins have vanes. Second, it actually fits the rest of the tin, like the “sled” tin the little V-shaped vane in them to direct airflow from the fan to between the case and the heater boxes. It fits snugly against the the combustion-chamber area of the heads. Without those vanes, exhaust ports and around the intake ports like it should, without air goes directly down the tin and in between the intake runners. requiring any massaging, beating, or pounding … just like VolkBut because of the air/fuel mix going through them, the air isn’t swagen originally intended. Of course, if you are running monster needed as much as there as it is over the chambers. ports and huge welded manifolds, there will be some massaging Until now, the only option other than aftermarket tin was to needed. find good used OEM German cylinder tin. But most of the OEM tin Awesome Powdercoat also makes the little cooling vanes as a needs a lot of work to get it back in serviceable condition. standalone product that can be welded or riveted into your afterThat has now changed. market tin. If Volkswagen thought they didn’t need that little vane, Clark Callis of Awesome Powdercoat has they wouldn’t have put it in, right? Do your come through for us VW folks, with brand-new engine a favor and help get rid of Aircooled Awesome Powdercoat cylinder tins that are actually better than the Enemy Number One … HEAT! And when Vanlue, Ohio original German stuff. you order, tell them you read about it in VW (419) 306-7384 Wait … what? How can that be, you say?

Trends. volkaholic@yahoo.com awesomepowdercoat.com Well, first off, it’s made of thicker metal. You

62 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

 Good old German OEM tin. Most of this stuff has seen better days, and you’ll spend a fair amount of time welding and hammering to get it pretty again.

 A big drawback to aftermarket tin: The cooling vane that directs air toward the combustion chambers is not installed.

 More often than not, aftermarket tin doesn’t fit right.

It doesn’t go all the way down the exhaust port, making it a struggle to get the other tin to fit.

Stop by our booth at the Phoenix Bugorama

 Awesome Powdercoat also offers a way to make your aftermarket tins cool properly: They sell this little directional vane that can be welded or riveted into nonvane tins.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 63

1967 WHAT YEAR IS IT?

The middle-child Beetle? • by Jason Smith

lot of people will tell you that the best Beetle ever made was the 1967 Beetle.

They’re wrong, of course: The best Beetle is always the one in your garage, the one with your name on the title, model year be damned.

But there’s no doubt that the ’67 Beetle is a transitional and therefore special car. I once heard someone say that all the Type 1 cars that were built before 1967 are Beetles and all that were built after 1967 are Bugs.

Volkswagen never officially made such a distinction, but it’s an interesting idea: Everything from 1968 on seemed to get bigger, wider, chunkier, I once heard maybe a little less someone say that svelte. Fenders lost all the Type 1 some compound cars built before curves. Bumpers 1967 are Beetles became flat blades. and all built after Indicator lights got 1967 are Bugs. bigger and bigger; Volkswagen interior switchgear never officially got plumper and made that rubbery. In short, distinction, but 1968-on Beetles it’s an interesting seem like children idea. of the ’70s, while 1966 and earlier Beetles now seem more like throwbacks to a more formal, and maybe more graceful, time. Bridging Beetle and Bug, and sometimes overlooked like a quiet middle child, is the ’67 Beetle.

Let me interrupt myself for a minute to remind you what was going on in 1967.

LBJ was the U.S. President. Ronald Reagan became governor of California. Movies of note included Cool Hand Luke, The Dirty Dozen, and The Graduate. All the Beatles needed was love, The Monkees were believers, The Doors wanted you to light their fires, and Jimi Hendrix asked if you were experienced. Elvis got married. (Well, it was The Summer of Love, after all.) The Six-Day War began and ended. “Race riots”

64 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE SAMBA

A

▲ Press photo of a U.S.-market ’67. Chassis numbers were 117 000 001 to 117 844 892.

MODIFICATIONS FOR 1967*  Engine displacement is increased from 1300 to 1500cc.  Horsepower is increased from 50 to 53.  Headlights are now a single unit (not enclosed in a separate glass cover) and sit at the leading edge of the front fenders; fender is reshaped to accomodate.  Back-up lights added to rear bumper.  Dual-circuit brake system; front/ rear brakes operate independently.  Parking light incorporated into front turn signals.  Locking buttons on doors; flat plastic recessed inside door handles.  Driver’s side armrest now mounted.  12-volt electrical system (mid-year change).  VOLKSWAGEN nameplate replaces 1300 badge on deck lid.  Deck lid squared off at bottom; rear bumper overriders redesigned for new deck lid clearance. *PARTIAL LIST. PRIMARILY APPLIES TO U.S.-MARKET CARS.

erupted in Tampa, Buffalo, Newark, Minneapolis, Detroit, Milwaukee, and D.C. The Vietnam War raged on.

In retrospect, it’s maybe not surprising that a car built in a year of love and war and peace and riots would seem a little…

PRODUCTION FOR 1967 TOTAL NUMBER BUILT: 925,787  4.3% of total Beetle production, 1931–2004.

CABRIOLETS BUILT: 7,597  0.04% of total Beetle production, 1931–2004  0.8% of ’67 Beetle production NUMBER BUILT IN GERMANY: 794,818  85.9% of ’67 Beetle production  All Cabriolets were built in Germany  ’67 Beetles built outside Germany: 130,969 ’67 BEETLES WERE BUILT IN:  Wolfsburg, Osnabrück, Emden, and Ingolstadt, Germany  Auckland, New Zealand  Brussels, Belgium  Dublin, Ireland  Manila, Philippines  Melbourne, Australia  Montevideo, Uruguay  Peru  Portugal  Puebla, Mexico  São Bernardo do Campo, Brazil  Uitenhage, South Africa  Valencia, Venezuela

conflicted. 1967 Beetles have new headlights but old bumpers. The interior door handles were updated to a flat and recessed design, but they sat right next to the old-style window winders. The dashboard kept its old chrome trim pieces but the knobs for

BEETLE PRODUCTION, 1949–79

1967 PAINT COLORS L41 BLACK

99+1 7 ’67 BEET ,78 LE 25

USED ALL YEARS, 1949–79

S:

9

1967: 925,787 BUILT

SEDANS

L456 RUBY RED FINAL YEAR. USED 1961–67

L518 JAVA GREEN FINAL YEAR. USED 1964–67

CABRIOLETS

’79

L633 VW BLUE DEBUT YEAR. USED 1967–68

’49

L639 ZENITH BLUE DEBUT YEAR. USED 1967–68

L282 LOTUS WHITE DEBUT YEAR. USED 1967–68

L595 FONTANA GRAY FINAL YEAR. USED 1965–67

L620 SAVANNAH BEIGE USED 1967–70

L19K YUKON YELLOW CABRIOLET ONLY. USED 1965–67, 1970

the headlights and wipers/washer were newly designed in black rubber. (By 1969, VW had fully redesigned the dash and eliminated this visual clash.) In short, the ’67 Beetle seems a little like a teenager: a little ungainly, a little in-between, still growing into some of its parts and out of some of its others.

Don’t get me wrong; loads of people love the ’67 Beetle precisely because of, or even in spite of, all of these quirks. It’s a car with lots of one-year-only parts, which can make a restoration project relatively challenging.

Production numbers for 1967 were comparatively low, partly because of declining

demand in the German market. But the improvements that began with the ’67 models would allow Volkswagen to have a decidely successful few years with the Beetle.

Awkward teenager? Middle child? Part Beetle, part Bug? Who is this jackhole?

(Send hate mail to our publisher at dan@ vwtrendsmagazine.com.) Look, I come to praise the 1967 Beetle, not to bury it. All these quirks are just part of the ’67’s charm.

It’s an interesting little car: partly looking backward to the past, partly gazing into the future. It’s unmistakeable on the road, and it’s clearly loved by those who own and drive it. See you next time.

COURTESY OF THE SAMBA

▲ These two lovebirds are no doubt cooing about the ’67 Beetle’s flat headlights, 12-volt electrical system, and larger 1500cc motor. A dead giveaway for identifying a ’67: flat headlights paired with “towel-bar” bumpers. 1967 was the only year to feature that combo.

▲ This VW press release trumpets the arrival of a 1967-only part: the dual-snorkel air cleaner.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 65

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. If you have a VW problem and like many of us are self-medicating, drop us a line. We’d love to feature your cars and your space in Garage Built. Contact us: dzemla@gmail.com, DM @airkooledgarage or tag #garagebuiltvws.

Kid Zemla and Dad Zemla with their current collection in front of the garage where they were built: The kid’s high school Buggy, a ’67 race car, a ’61 patina Bug, and a ’73 Bay.

THE OBSESSION RETURNS

By David Zemla

F

irst off, thank you for all the positive feedback: This column comes from an overwhelming passion for VWs and a desire to share the stories of people building cool stuff in humble garages. None of us at VW Trends is going to get rich, so the positive input is what we live for. Surprisingly, the number one question we saw with our last issue was, “What’s in your garage?” Are you guys calling us out?

This issue we’ll take a look at the author’s garage and maybe inspire some of our readers to share theirs.

My VW story starts when I was a young punk. Imagine the scene: California palm trees waving in the breeze, dark haze of a stage-two smog alert on the horizon, and

66 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

a skinny kid heading down to the corner store to grab the latest issue of BMXA when out of nowhere a Cal-Styled Bug rips around the corner. Time stops as the machine — nose-down stance, monochromatic paint, and Porsche nipple hubcaps — passes by in slow motion. The crackling note of the Bug’s open stinger finally snaps me out of a VW-induced delirium.

I didn’t buy the BMX magazine. That day my publication choice was of the aircooled variety, and by junior year of high school I was rolling a slammed, raspberry pink squareback. The car was a virtual ’80s cliche, from the color-matched wheels to the Baby Turbo and Wink mirrors. Most of my meager earnings went to Car Custom or Johnny’s Speed & Chrome, and I haunted all the cool-kid places in SoCal, including

This raspberry pink Squareback was David Zemla’s high school dream car. EMPI 8-spokes, T-bar bumpers and laying on the ground were the orders of the day.

Bug-Ins and Angelo’s cruise nights.

No idea what became of that Type 3, but I would like to apologize to any subsequent owners for whatever high school wrenching calamity you may have discovered.

Fast forward a few decades. My son, ten years old at the time, suggests that our next project be a VW Bus. Just like that, the obsession returns. The garage was soon inhabited by a ’73 Bay Window shell. No interior, no engine, and not even a trans — just a German-made metal box with very big windows.

While the Bus is still under construction, the kid decides he wants to build a VW of his own and drive it to his high school graduation (insert apple/tree jokes here).

Naturally I said no, that would be silly, but it came out as a yes, let’s do that. A few weekends later we dragged (literally, as none of the wheels rolled) a mid-sixties Buggy project out of a barn. I figured it would keep the Bus company and maybe teach the kid how to wrench. We were successful in both.

A few years later, the Bus was wrapped up. Now sporting Fiat Verde Chiaro paint, it sat on a WagensWest narrowed beam, dropped spindles, and 4.5-inch drop plates in the rear. The frame was notched in six places to clear axles, raised beam, and steering linkage. Naturally it required tubs and a custom-made bench seat. The trans is from Benco and the motor was built

by Brothers in SoCal. Kaddy Shack did the carbs and Pertronix the ignition. The interior is TMI panels with custom-upholstered seats to match. The balance of the work was done in my garage across a seven-year span.

Next on deck was a ’76 Sun Bug. Thanks to prolific Midwest rot (Did I mention we now lived in rural Wisconsin?) it soon

At ten years old, the kid knew what was up and persuaded me to buy this tattered ’73 Bay, which reignited my love for old VWs.

A low-buck Hobart welder, cut-off saw, and grinder were key to building the Buggy cage. The kid was learning welding in shop class and did a solid job on the project.

We created a makeshift paint booth by hanging store-bought plastic from a cable, and sprayed with our trusty Harbor Freight purple gun. Not elegant, but surprisingly effective.

Seven years in, the Bay was wrapped up and on the road. It sits on a WagensWest narrowed beam, dropped spindles, and 4.5" drop plates. Naturally, it has a trusty BMX sidekick.

became a long-body Buggy. This car represented the first time we did everything in the garage. Special thanks to the Prescott Phillips book How to Rebuild VW AirCooled Engines for guidance through that part of the build. We also did pan repair, a fair amount of fiberglass work, a custom harness, and bent and welded the cage. The final piece of the puzzle was paint and we’d gotten pretty decent with the HF gun by then. After watching a few videos, we hung tarps to create a makeshift paint booth.

The end result would probably not win any shows, but it was a solid car and fun as hell to drive.

The kid eventually finished his blue Buggy and, sticking to his plan, drove it to his high school graduation. I may have shed a tear. I’ve been lucky enough to build cars side by side with my kid and it’s pretty awesome. He’s since gone off to college and the

Buggy is in the garage awaiting his return.

Along the way we picked up and flipped a handful of cars. Most we’ve lost track of, but each gave us the opportunity to grow our skills. The kid grabbed a long-abandoned ’66 for a few hundred dollars.

Against all odds, he made it run and drove it around the neighborhood. Another was a Pinto-powered late-model Bug. We also had a hacked ’68 Vert. It had a beautiful top and interior, but the previous owner had cut it in half trying to repair the channels.

Most of those cars are now gone, with a few notable exceptions. We are currently hosting a ’67 drag car, likely built in the ’80s and handed off to numerous owners before ending up in our garage. A fresh trans and a fair amount of wiring cleanup had that car back on the track last summer.

The garage is also home to a ’61 patina Bug we found in an airplane hanger in

Minnesota, where it had languished for decades. The rust belt had not been kind to it, but it was complete and cheap, so on the trailer it went.

Now two years into that build, all the rust repair is completed. The pan was blasted and painted and we built our own air suspension. Each car pushes us to learn and grow. This one helped refine sheet-metal welding skills (still much to learn!) and suspension design. The car lays out with less than an inch under the pan, and we’re pretty happy with the functionality of the bag system. The motor is another story: Our desire to turbocharge something may have gotten ahead of the knowledge needed to turbocharge something. I’m sure we’ll figure it out, but for now that car sits surrounded by its three VW friends waiting for the end of another long Midwestern winter, or “build season” as we call it here.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 67

1. The chassis has some rust, but nothing that a wire brush and some elbow grease can’t remedy.

1950s ARNOLD SPLIT-WINDOW REBUILD A fitting vintage toy tribute to VW Trends’ first anniversary • by Arthur Junior

S

o here we are reading the latest issue of These large (215mm or 1/19 scale) ArVW Trends with all the cool features, nold Split-Window VWs were made in the tech, and event articles! But wait! This early 1950s. (Arnold GmbH & Co KG was fourth issue also represents the one-year founded in 1906 by Karl Arnold in Nürnanniversary of the publication’s return! berg, Germany.) These were very nice chilWell, as the resident VW toy dren’s toys that were meant to aficionado, I couldn’t do just be played with. But if they were Here I am with ANY toy story for this issue … dropped or played with roughly, this beat-up it had to be something special, there was a good chance that Arnold toy. And something meaningful … somethe hard plastic body would the real question thing wonderful! crack, chip, or break. is, what do I do I recently had the opportuLooking at the photos of this with it? nity to attend the flea market Arnold Split VW, you can see in Heidelberg, Germany. To that the roof section is dammy surprise, I was able to find aged, and a bad glue repair job and secure an early 1950s-era Arnold Split was performed. To be sure, even though Window Volkswagen at an amazing price. this toy falls into the category of a collectThat’s the nice part of doing things in perible, this pint-size VW doesn’t represent son compared to an online auction: You’re a collector-level example that would be not competing with thousands of collectors displayed in a pristine, desirable vintage toy all vying for the same item. collection.

68 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

2. Removing the body is easy: It’s attached by two metal rivets. With the body off the chassis, upon closer inspection, you can see there’s more corrosion than was originally evident.

So, here I am with this beat-up Arnold toy. And the real question is, what do I do with it? Readers of this section know that I love repairing, restoring, and basically bringing all kinds of cool VW toys back to life. But few people have ever really had the chance to see or hear about the restoration process.

My vision was to create a one-year anniversary tribute for Dan “DG” Leadbetter, Publisher and Editor-In-Chief of the reborn VW Trends magazine! So this column will be a “before and after” examination of

3. I removed all the exterior and interior components. Now you can really see what we’re working with!

4. With the body off the chassis, you can see just how damaged the hard plastic is. We’re gonna have some body work to do here.

5. After cleaning, drying, gluing, wet sanding, puttying, and more wet sanding, we’re ready for primer. (See story for details.)

6. I applied a coat of blue paint for the fender color.

7. Then I masked off the fenders and painted the body orange.

this toy as it’s brought back to life. I wanted to use the five basic colors of the magazine’s logo: yellow, red, orange, blue, and black.

Basically, this toy is in pretty good condition. It’s complete with all the parts, but the plastic body is cracked and damaged. Just like a full-sized car in rough shape, this VW needs a body-off restoration. Fortunately, the body can be taken off by removing two

metal chassis rivets. The chassis has a lot of scratches, paint loss, and is very rusty and crusty on the inside. Once the tin interior, friction motor, front wheels and bumpers are removed, the real work begins!

Time for some basic clean-up. I wirebrushed the chassis, friction motor, and bumpers to remove rust, debris, and 70 some-odd years of gunk. Once it was clean,

I gave the chassis a coat of satin black paint.

With the first step complete (and the paint dry), I set the chassis aside. Time to turn an eye to the powerplant — the friction motor. It didn’t take too much elbow grease to clean it up, and the newly cleaned and shiny friction motor has a rectangular symbol with a “fir tree” insignia. This represents the well-known German mechanical specialist company, Gebrüder Bühler.

The friction motor is designed to run at full speed all day long because it is, of course, an air-cooled Volkswagen!

Fortunately, the tin lithograph interior is in much nicer condition. It features a twin-pod instrument panel, two glove boxes, foot pedals, “H” gear shift knob, radio (Telefunken?) and an “ivory” plastic bat-wing steering wheel. There’s also a briefcase, some luggage, and maps. I’m still on the fence about those blue and yellow plaid front seats, which would seem more at home on a carnival ride. Oh well, to each their own. I’m sure the child that owned this toy wasn’t too concerned about how “authentic” the interior was.

I cleaned the worn hubcaps and painted them yellow, then added a VW decal for a finishing touch. I dressed the black rubber tires with a little silicone to get back the “new tire” shine. Now the chassis, interior, running gear, and bumpers are all reassembled, waiting for the next step.

Let’s move along to the damaged body.

Being around these toys for many years, I’ve developed some best practices when it comes to restoring and refurbishing the hard plastic bodies. Like with any good restoration, I first clean the body with hot soapy water. Once the exterior is completely dry, I apply a thick bead of super glue gel along all the cracks on the inside body and allow it to dry overnight. You can’t rush this process! This secures, strengthens, and adds rigidity to the body, preventing it from cracking more — especially when working with the body to fill and smooth out the cracks on the outside surfaces. I apply Testors liquid plastic fusing glue to all the outside surface cracks and let it dry.

Then I wet sand the body with 3M 600 wet/dry emery paper and set it aside to completely dry. Next, I fill the surface cracks in the body with Tamiya brand white modeling putty. When that has dried, I wet sand again until all exterior cracks are smooth. Now the body is ready for painting.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 69

8. I masked off the fenders and sides and painted the rest of the body bright yellow.

To create a VW Trends color scheme, I masked off different areas of the toy using tape and aluminum foil, then painted it in several stages. First I painted the body with white primer. Then the fenders got the first splash of color. Once they were dry, I masked them off and painted the sides of the body orange. I repeated this process until all the colored areas were complete.

I used a little dab of silver paint for the front hood emblem and front horn grilles.

Silver-painted plastic wood-screw caps finished off the headlights.

I made the decals for this project using a computer graphics program, then laser printed them on water-transfer decal

9. I went through the friction motor to ensure it was as operational as the day it left the Arnold Toy Company.

11. VW Trends’ own Art Director Ron Petro lent his skills for the “Cheap Toy$” graphic on the roof. I printed the decals on water transfer paper and sealed them with some clear paint to protect them.

All that’s left is to reattach the body to the chassis.

10. I reassembled the undercarriage. The interior was in good condition, so nothing needed to be done there.

paper. The top roof section sports a “CheapToy$ !!” graphic designed by VW Trends’ own Art Director Ron Petro. After I cut out the decals and applied them to the body, I applied a couple coats of clear paint to seal them. I added a couple of red rhinestone taillights, and the body was complete. I reattached it to the chassis with the two metal rivets and a little super glue gel.

So there you have it: from a giveaway-priced flea-market find to a special VW Trends Commemorative One-Year Anniversary Arnold Split Window Volkswagen — ­ a fitting homage for the rebirth of an awesome magazine.

With the body reattached using the metal rivets and some glue, this 1950s toy makes a stellar tribute. This showpiece is sitting in Dan’s cabinet of curiosities for many generations to enjoy. We hope this will inspire you to go and refurbish some toys of your own! (Editor’s note: Thanks so much, Arthur, for this amazing gift!)

70 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

PILE OF THE MONTH

 This ’73 Bug’s personality has been altered with missing fenders and a fiberglass ’37 Ford front-end kit. The windshield visor cuts down on the glares owner Joe Jimenez must get from passers-by.

THE WUNDERBUG

By DG Leadbetter

J

oe Jimenez is the proud (?) owner of this ’73 Beetle. He calls it the “Wunderbug.”

Honestly? I’m wundering what the hell he was thinking. First, a little back story: Joe’s grandparents bought this VW when he started high school. They made a deal with Joe: If he got through every year of high school with at least a B average (and graduated), the Bug would belong to him.

Four years went by and Joe was set to get the Bug, not knowing anything about cars, let alone Volkswagens.

His grandparents were true to their word, and when Joe graduated high school with flying colors in 2018, the pink slip and the Bug were his! He immediately got a job so he could start doing the VW his way.

Which, looking at the pictures now, may not have been the best idea.

“As soon I sat in this car for the first time, I immediately fell in love with it,” Joe says. “It has sparked a love for VWs that I will never lose.” Joe drove the car for six whole months before the 1600cc engine

72 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

 Uh, we’re gonna need a wiring diagram over here. Or maybe just some gasoline and a match.

gave out. December of 2018 saw the motor completely rebuilt, and Joe got the car back in January.

The following month, the Bug was involved in a hit and run and declared a total loss. Sadly, what was once a pretty clean VW now featured a destroyed left rear suspension. Joe refused to send the car to the junkyard. He and his brother pushed it to the back yard where he and many friends began the repair process. To get this baby up and running required a new pan, new brakes, and almost everything else you can

 Here’s Joe’s Bug after it was involved in a hit and run. Honestly? It’s looking a little better here than the finished product.

think of. You’d think with a fresh undercarriage, the next logical step would be a sweet Cal-Look overhaul to the body. Oh no ... not quite!

The nose of the Beetle has been ... um, well, altered with a fiberglass 1937 Ford front-end kit. A front winshield visor was added, and all the fenders were removed.

At first glance, you’d think Joe was parting out the VW little by little, but that wasn’t the case. At least now the car is mostly all white instead of the blue-white-black color scheme it had before the accident. A pair of headlights were added because ... Well, you have to have headlights.Out back, a set of taillights were added via custom brackets, since the rear fenders were removed. Joe kept the black, rusted rear deck lid.

Possibly the nicest part of this Rusto-Custom is the rebuilt 1600cc motor, which sustained no damage in the accident.

In fact, it only has about 700 miles on it since the rebuild. Not gonna lie: The engine is the cleanest part of this pile!

The interior features a ... well ... interesting combination of styles. The dash inserts and glove-box door have been covered in stickers; a velvet Crown Royal bag acts as the shift cover; and (most) of the door

The rebuilt 1600cc motor sustained no damage from the hit and run accident.

In fact, it only has about 700 miles on it since the rebuild. (But does it — ahem — smoke?) This powerplant may be the most well-thought-out part of the vehicle, though we do see at least one wire dangling.

 Johnny B. Goode used to carry his guitar in a gunny sack. Joe decided to just cover his whole interior with them, including a couple of oh-so-special Red Hair Sinsemilla sacks.

But does it B. Goode? We’ll leave that up to you.

panels, including the armrests and window cranks, are covered in gunny sack material. The seats were stripped down to bare horsehair and also covered in gunny sacks, while the seatbacks got special Red Hair Sinsemilla 50-kilo gunny sacks. Those empty herb bags could explain a lot about where the idea for the car’s interior came from. Rounding out the package is fake grass for carpet.

Open the front hood, and you’ll see a tangled mess of wires. Joe says this is a theft-deterrent feature, because seriously no one can start the car!

All in all, the one thing you can say is this POTM has followed a theme. I’m not sure what theme that is, but I’m sure there’s one in there somewhere. We let Bosco the Undead Wonder Dog take a look at this ’73 and he immediately threw up two hairballs and passed out. Not too shabby (unlike the interior)!

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!

 As you can see, all four fenders were removed to help with that Rat Rod/Roadster look. Maybe RustoCustom would be a better term.  All kidding aside, to pay tribute to his brother, who passed away in April 2021, Joe used skateboard trucks to mount his brother’s board in the rear luggage tray.

VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 73

BOOK REVIEW when the first Beetle prototype was built and driven, to 2003, when the last old-school Beetle rolled off the production line in Mexico. Everything in the history section is listed chronologically, from prototypes to production. By the time you’re done reading that chapter, you’ll have witnessed the progression of the VW! There’s Volkswagen Complete: Volkswagen History to Hobby has a full chapter on Herbie the Love Bug. If you want a wealth of information here. to know everything about everything in regard to It’s going to be one of those Herbie, this is it! chapters you’ll read again and again, getting something new out of it every time you go through it.

One of the things that impressed me the most about Volkswagen Complete is the attention to detail; Bob covers just about EVERYTHING in this book: VW advertising, all of Volkswagen’s logo iterations, all the various years and styles of each VW type, a maintenance list containing a list of all the The book also features a maintenance list with spare parts you should travel everything you need to know about what to check and bring with you when you travel with your Volkswagen. with. I’ve been with enough Super helpful and much needed.

VW people to know that hen it comes to fanatics, you’d be roadside pit stops go with the hard-pressed to find someone more territory, and this is really solid wisdom.

One bit of constructive criticism for this into VWs than Bob Cropsey. Bob’s been If you’re one of those “I like pictures more book: There’s no history or mention of VW around the scene for as many years as I can than words” types, Bob’s book does not dis- racing. It would have been nice to include a remember and has always been an outspoappoint. Toward the back of the book are 78 chapter on that. Bob says this is his fourth ken member of the air-cooled community. pages of vintage Volkswagen photos, many and LAST book. Bob, maybe a fifth book His passion for all things VW has spilled of which I’d never seen before! including VW racing? There’s a wealth of over to the keyboard, where Bob has auVolkswagen Complete also includes a info out there, and it might make a nice adthored three books prior to this one about chapter on one on the most famous VW dition. But that’s just me. Hey, if that’s the our beloved German Bug of all time, Herbie. only negative about Volkswagen Complete: metal. His latest is It covers all of the Volkswagen History to Hobby, Bob really hit Volkswagen Complete: Volkswagen Complete: Herbie films and a home run with this book.

Volkswagen History to Hobby Volkswagen History to lists a ton of obscure Let’s be clear: This isn’t a boring textby Bob Cropsey vwhistorytohobby.com Hobby. This hardbound Herbie information. book or service manual; no way. This book book boasts 426 pages Did you know that is a fun read. There are cartoons, and fun chock full of more Herbie is the only car bits of trivia sprinkled throughout the paginformation than you can digest in a single to have his tire prints in front of Grauman’s es. VW Trends’ own resident art director sitting. It’s dense reading, but it’s definiteChinese Theater (now known as the TLC Ron Petro and “VW Friends” cartoonist ly NOT boring: Bob has a down-to-earth Chinese Theaters) in Hollywood? I didn’t George Trosley are all over the pages! The writing style that makes the book enjoyable either. Do you know Herbie’s license plate bottom line? If you are looking for a oneto read. number? It’s in there. Wanna know what stop, complete VW resource, you’d do well The book starts off with the history of Herbie’s paint code is? Yeah, that’s in there to pick up a copy of Bob’s book. To get your the VW — and there’s a lot of ground to cov- too. I told you, this book has everything but own copy, go to vwhistorytohobby.com, er. It includes a TON of great old photos and the kitchen sink (that would be in here too, and be sure to let Bob know you read about information, such as a timeline from 1935, if Volkswagen made kitchen sinks). it in VW Trends!

This book is a great read for newbies and old-timers alike!

By Dan Leadbetter

W

74 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

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Kathy: (919) 616-2183. 21–22: Dubs in the Shrubs, Trenton, NJ. Seventh annual campout/car show/swap meet. Hosted by the Old School Euros Car Club. Air-cooled vehicles and Vanagons only. FB: @Oldschooleuroscc | Email: oldschooleuroscc@yahoo.com 28–29 Bug O Rama 87, Sacramento, CA. Presented by CB Performance. Car show, drag races, vendor alley, swap meet. bugorama.com

march 18–20: 15th Annual Lakeland VW Classic, Lakeland, FL. (863) 660-7731 18–20: Silverado Campout, Car Show, and Swap Meet, Silverado, CA. bugin.com/silverado 20: Bugbloom #4, Phoenix, AZ. Edgefinder VW. (602) 687-2804. fb.me/e/1ZZER7ul7 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 25–27: VVV Treffen Campout to Meet in the Middle, Ventura, CA. | FB and @vvvolkswagens | Come when you can, come as you are! volkswagens.org/campout | fb.me/e/1Svkf3b1w 26: The Blooming Good VW/Porsche Show, Nacogdoches, TX. | Sammie Smith: (936) 569-3542 or James Perryman: (936) 288-2724 or e-mail bugcollections@sbcglobal.net 27: Meet in the Middle 2022, Solvang, CA. Vintage Volkswagen Club of America, Central Coast Chapter. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Nojoqui Falls Park 27: 40th Michigan Buggy Builders Show and Swap Meet, Lansing, MI. Lansing Center, 333 E. Michigan Ave. Lots of vintage Volkswagen parts, accessories and memorabilia. buggybuilders.com April 02: Herbie’s 53rd Anniversary Celebration Extravaganza, Daytona Beach, FL. One Daytona/Daytona International Speedway. herbies53rdanniversary.com Email drluv@herbies53rdanniversary. com 03: Doug’s Buggs & Bunnys Bugorama Southwest, Chandler, AZ. | www.bugorama.com 08-10: 27th Annual VW Spring Fling Show, Swap, and Camp; Madera, CA. | Tony: (559) 994-1192 | maderaspringfling.com 09–10: Bug-a-Paluza 2022, East Ridge, TN. VW car show with classes for air-cooled and water-cooled, a huge swap meet with vendors selling new and used parts, and a campout Friday and Saturday nights. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Chattanooga. bugapaluza.com | facebook.com/ events/649946243016723 23: VolksFest 2022, Manheim, PA. All Volkswagen car show held by the Harrisburg Area Volkswagen Owners Club at Mount Hope Estate, Manheim. https://fb.me/e/7m33gf97i 28 to May 1: 22nd Annual OEBC Spring Picnic Campout, Yorba Linda, CA. springpicnicinfo@gmail.com Check our Facebook page for further info.

May 07: Aircooled Show & Shine, Rancho Cucamonga, CA. Wienerschnitzel at 12719 Foothill Blvd. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. All aircooled cars welcome. @midlife_vwcrewzers 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-times-at-farmington.html | facebook. com/southeasteuromotorsports | @sevwa1 or @southeasteuro |

76 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

June 4: Rare Vintage Air d’Elegance, Huntington Beach, CA. Old World Village. Email frk@rarevintageairvwclub.com 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 10: Michigan Vintage VW Festival, Frankenmuth, MI. mvvc.net 17-18: Mid America Motorworks VW Funfest 2022: Fully Loaded, Effingham, IL. This year is not to be missed as we celebrate Herbie’s 53rd Birthday! | funfestacvw.com 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. 19: Bug-In 46, Irwindale, CA. Irwindale Raceway. No matter what your VW interest is, the Bug-In has it all: 1/8-mile drag racing, car show open to all VW models, and a massive swap meet and vendor display. | bugin.com | (714) 544-1759 | Email: info@ bugin.com | facebook.com/SoCalBUGIN | @bug_in JULY 29–31: Ventura Vintage VWs Treffen Fest 2022.

Please come help Ventura Vintage Volkswagens welcome the Airhead Parts 22nd Treffen to Ventura! | volkswagens.org | @vvvolkswagens | FB @ Ventura Vintage Volkswagens

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.

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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.

VVWCA

T

he Vintage Volkswagen Club of America was founded in 1976 to serve as a network for vintage VW enthusiasts to connect nationally. They’re the largest VW organization in the country, with over 30 clubs and reps across the USA. The VVWCA endeavors to assist all VW enthusiasts in the historical, technical, and social aspects of the hobby. They’re a non-profit organization, run voluntarily by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts, operating with funds from member dues, chapter club dues and sponsors.

If you’re interested in Volkswagens, you’re invited to join the national club and to find a local chapter club near you. Events occur throughout the year to allow you to meet enthusiasts with similar interests and to provide the resources to help you enjoy your Volkswagen to the fullest.

The VVWCA has two membership options: a free basic membership and our pro membership with numerous member benefits.

If you are a member of one chapter or just a VW fan, please join the national club as a member to receive more information.

If you are a local club and want to join the VVWCA, you can find an application at vvwca.com. Chapter clubs are offered national advertising and liability coverage for the club and its events.

The VVWCA is the source for information pertaining to out-of-production Volkswagens and an international resource for those seeking information on aircooled VWs. Volkswagen of America and other industry related magazines often refer to the club when they need information as well. Club members have been restoring Volkswagens for many years and can provide a wealth of resources for the preservation or restoration of your VW. Vintage Voice is VVWCA’s national newsletter. As a member of the VVWCA, you will receive this publication on a bi-monthly basis (free memberships via email; pro members receive via email and printed copy). For over 45 years the VVWCA has been supporting the VW hobby! For more information, go to the club’s website or contact the club president:

VintageVoice March/April 2022

The Vintage Vo

lkswagen Club o

VVWCA.com

f America Maga

Volume 47 • Number 2

zine • Establish

ed 1976

Eric L. Goodman president@vvwca.com www.vvwca.com

78 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

KOWABUNGA T

he Kowabunga Van Clan is an umbrella host to three different clubs all uniquely celebrating the VW and with one common interest: surf culture. The clubs are:  The VW Van Surf Club  The Split Window Surf Club  The Microbus Deluxe Surf Club Throughout the year, you’ll find a very active group of club members coming together in support of great causes and fun events, like the Huntington Beach Surf City Half Marathon pictured here. vwvansurfclubhuntingtonbeach.com (714) 745-7165

ADVERTISERS INDEX AC Silkscreen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 23 chris@acsilkscreen.com Awesome Powdercoat and Classic Steel Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 57 awesomepowdercoat.com Bernie Bergmann VW . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 29 bergmannvw.net Bill & Steve’s Foreign Auto . . . . . . pg. 13 billandsteves.com Bus Heads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 71 Buswerx . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 7 @buswerx California Import Parts . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 1 and inside back cover CIP1.com CB Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 5 cbperformance.com Doug’s Buggs and Bunny. . . . . . . . pg. 63 dougsbnb.com The Classic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 77 @bugoramapromotionsofficial EMPI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 75 empiusa.com Hayburner Magazine . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 15 hayburner.co.uk Let’s Talk Dubs Podcast . . . . . . . . . . pg. 2 letstalkdubs.com Mid America Motorworks . . back cover mamotorworks.com El Prado Show n’ Shine 2022 . . . . pg. 13 ProVolks Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 29 provolksranch.business.site Rancho Performance Transaxles . . pg. 7 ranchotransaxles.com Strictly Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 29 strictlyforeign.com Vintage Volkswagen Club of America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 33 vvwca.com

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VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22 79

80 VW TRENDS • SPRING ’22

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