convertible conversion...

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Mon Sep 15, 2003 6:59 am

does anybody know of a guide/how2 to converting a standard beetle to a convertible?

Kubel Nick · Post by **Kubel Nick** » Mon Sep 15, 2003 10:08 am

cheaper to buy a vert already. things needed off the top of my head:
-cut roof
-replace windshield frame to reinforced vert frame
-strengthen chassis with vert rails
-graft in (somehow) rear vert quarter windows
-change doors to vert doors
-need vert top
-need vert decklid for better cooling

There's some kits (like from Wizard) that will make things easier but to e they just don't look right. I'd stick with a factory vert if I want a vert. That is unless you want a custom carson top or something similar...

vertman · Post by **vertman** » Tue Sep 16, 2003 6:40 am

This is a little off the subject but does anyone know if the VW convertibles started life as a sedan and then they made them into convertibles? I know most of the car makers today take a sedan body and cut it and renforce it and add the top or it is out of house. Just wondering?

Kubel Nick · Post by **Kubel Nick** » Tue Sep 16, 2003 8:09 am

Yes, at least in the early models. They were taken to the Karmann factory and were converted there, hence they're called Karmann Convertibles with a Karmann badge. Not sure about the Mexican late model verts...

VW got two coachbuilders to convert their Beetles, Karmann and Hebmueller. But soon after a few short years the Hebmueller factory caught on fire or something and was permanently closed so the Karmann version of the verts is what we see today (for the mass public). There's a few other coachbuilt factory vert's out there but used mainly for government use, like the Papler police Beetle.

vertman · Post by **vertman** » Tue Sep 16, 2003 8:41 am

Thanks that's what I thought but wasn't sure.