My car now looks superb after its respray, and once again looks like new. It is not concourse (I wouldn't want to use it if it was), but is in extremely good condition. The original number plates have been restored (by myself), and the engine has been adjusted so it runs superbly. Here are some pictures:
The worn crossply tyres (three of which were dodgy remoulds with peeling treads!) were replaced - Unfortunately, I didn't realise it had one of the original Michelins until it was too late... They have been replaced with a set of 5 new 165x15 radial-ply ones. Future plans on the wish-list include a set of original Michelin crossplies, but I expect this will be a good few years yet!
All the rubber items in my car are the originals except the bonnet seal and the window scrapers. The original scrapers were rusty and perished, so this is probably why parts of the door bottoms had previously rusted out! I also replaced the quarterlight closure seal on the chrome bar on each side as they had also worn out with regular use. The drivers quarterlight also needed a new catch, which was fitted from a donor frame by Kombi's.
The car is really easy to drive, and it is driven regularly. I don't plan to sell it, and knowing me, I will probably keep it for the rest of my life - I don't think I could ever bear to part with it! In nearly three years of ownership I have increased the mileage to just over 42,000 miles, and yes, I have continued with the petrol log!!
I hope to take my car to as many local shows in the Dorset area as I can this year, and you never know, I may win a trophy or two! If you do see me, don't forget to say hello! It was a bit unexpected, but my Beetle has become something of a prize winner! I won a 'First in Class' at the British VW Festival in 2000, as well as 'Best Original Beetle - Pre 68' and 'Best of Show' at Beach Buggin' 2001! You can read about the shows by clicking on the 'Shows' link on the left.
Would I restore another car? Yes! I really enjoyed restoring this one, and would definitely like another car to restore in the future when I have the space, time and money. I am a keen Morris Minor fan too, so you never know... I would love to learn and weld and spray paint so the next resto would be 100% by me!
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