I tried using the search feature and i couldn't locate an answer for my questions
is there any clearance issues when attempting to lower the stance of a AS? I'm considering lowering one of my bugs: drop spindles in the front and 1 or 2 clicks lowered in the rear, do i have to worry about tire clearance with the ATF reservoir and vacuum reservoir?
Also side note : i took my '68 on a dry winter morning about 20 miles to my cousins through 11 miles ofhighway and 7 milesbackroads...on the high way she always shutters, and shimmies when we're traveling over 60, and she nearly gets pushed into other lanes when the wind hits her. I've had this issue since I've bought the car, On smaller 2 lane highways where speeds are 45-55 she's ok but once i hit 60-65 the car will start wanting to pull into different lane when the wind hits it.
my '74 i can travel doing 65-75 comfortably without feeling the wind trying to push her out of the lane i'm driving in. any suggestions on how to lessen the shaking while driving?
Hiya Zoo,
Hmmmm........I really dunno the answer to lowering clearances. I'd have to go out and crawl under the car to do some measuring. And inasmuch as there is about 5 inches of snow on the ground that ain't likely to happen anytime soon.
As for the front end situation...........you shouldn't have any problems with front end at highway speeds. I'd venture to say that you may need to have the front end mechanicals checked out, aligned and front tires checked for balance. Last time I had my Bug in for front end work the shop discovered that the rear end was crabbing slightly and took care of that. Big improvement in handling.
wow my math being way off.. 13 miles on the highway..7 back roads..lol
thanks bookus,when i have a chance i'll have to get it to a shop, maybe they can figure it out..
thanks for the info about the lowering, i was considering lowering the '74 alittle bit, i dunno why but i'm starting to really enjoy the look of the lower riding height.
Hi
You won't have any issues with the rear tires...
I had 205 x 60 x 15s on the rear of My beetle a couple of years ago..
I also had mudflaps fitted.. which was a little hard because of the ATF tank...
My 68 beetle drives like a new one...
no shudder.. doesn't wander on the highway...
sticks to the road... the winds have to be very strong to blow it on the highway..
normally, large trucks have no impact when travelling on the highways etc..
I renewed everything when I restored the beetle , between 1996 and 2005..
I also lowered it... with adjusters... was too low at first and the tires rubbed on the lips of the fenders
when turning and driving over bumps etc.. also.. gas shocks were way too hard..
so, I have HD oil shocks [also shorter than standard VW shocks] and the front is lowered
so, You do notice it... but the front tires no longer touch/rub on the fenders...
plus, the front suspension works great... not too bumpy or hard...
You do need to watch the front, under the nose, as it is low...
You can buy camber adjusters so You can adjust the front camber more if needed.
I have these but as yet, not fitted them..
also a new steering damper is fitted.. and no play in the steering..
I have 6 inch wide chromed wheels...
I haven't lowered the rear as yet... probably never will now..
but most locals have their beetles lowered front & rear..
cheers
Lee
Can always do a quick look at your front suspension and even steering box if you have different tires on it or old crustys that will also deter the performance at speeds over 55mph bottom line if your steering wheel has more then 1/8th or so of play you need to tighten the steering box at the least. I did this on my 68 by taking spare out and removing drvr side detachable plate and you will see the steering box and flat head screw to adjust screw, LESS IS MORE HERE turn it an 1/8 at a time then go to the driver seat, sit down and feel the steering repeat as needed, FAI WARNING TOO MUCH tension on this can possibly F^C% UP your steering box. Lastly REPLACE the rubber! you'de a got her pregnant for sure by now!
LOL anyway replacing the bushings and the balljoints will do a world of good for your control, IDK what your 70+ model is but welcome to VW Bugs in wind they will sway. but you will know if its from wind or just lowsy suspension and balance/alignment Good luck and keep us posted.
Quote from: 68automaticFoVay on 06 January 2010, 00:55
Can always do a quick look at your front suspension and even steering box if you have different tires on it or old crustys that will also deter the performance at speeds over 55mph bottom line if your steering wheel has more then 1/8th or so of play you need to tighten the steering box at the least. I did this on my 68 by taking spare out and removing drvr side detachable plate and you will see the steering box and flat head screw to adjust screw, LESS IS MORE HERE turn it an 1/8 at a time then go to the driver seat, sit down and feel the steering repeat as needed, FAI WARNING TOO MUCH tension on this can possibly F^C% UP your steering box. Lastly REPLACE the rubber! you'de a got her pregnant for sure by now!
LOL anyway replacing the bushings and the balljoints will do a world of good for your control, IDK what your 70+ model is but welcome to VW Bugs in wind they will sway. but you will know if its from wind or just lowsy suspension and balance/alignment Good luck and keep us posted.
Thanks all for the advice, once it starts warming up and the fear of snow disappears i'll check it out.