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My First Weld!
A little bit of the
tunnel chassis had to be patched before the new panels could
be attached. After an evening of practice, I was confident enough
to turn the welder to the car.
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Let The Games
Begin...
I am amazed at how
much fun welding is. At first I was a bit hesitant, but now I'm
right into it. I had to pick up some more MIG wire and I had
to refill the gas cylinder - both of which were pleasantly inexpensive.
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The Old Meets the
New
I had to reinforce
the joint on the driver's side due to a bit of rust-out. The
welding beads are getting a bit smoother looking, but still not
perfect. Luckily these joints are completely hidden when the
body is put back on.
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From The Other Side
The passenger's side
was quite a bit cleaner. Everything looks pretty ugly right after
being welded.
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Original Parts
Most of the parts
I've been able to get are imported from Brazil where the beetle
is still being produced. Some of the panels have actual VW part
stickers, but not this one. I was wondering what kind of conversation
I would have if I called the phone number on this sticker.
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Primed, Painted
and Undercoated
The front end is of
the chassis is now completed and ready for the new front beam
to be installed.
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Even MORE New Parts!
My second order came
in from California
Imports today. Pictured
here are ALL the components for the brake system and a few odds
and ends for the steering arms.
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The Floor Begins
Totally confident
in my welding skills, I put the passenger side floor pan in.
Welding into the corner proved to be a bit of a challenge, but
these joints will be hidden, so I wasn't too worried.
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And The Other Side
Don't ask me why the
floor pans are two different colours. My only guess is they are
easier to identify in the factory? Maybe there was a sale on
grey primer at the local Brazilian Tire store? Whatever the case
they will soon be wirebrushed, painted and undercoated to match
the rest of the chassis. The "car" is upside down in
this picture.
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