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Thu Mar 11, 2004 11:49 am

What does it take to mount 356 drums on an early KG. I have a line on a full set (front and back) but I won't wish to do any major cutting or welding or drilling.

But what else will be required? It is never as easy as it seems at first look.:?

Thu Mar 11, 2004 12:41 pm

There was a lowlight for sale a while ago in the classifieds here with the 356 drums. So it can be done...

Thu Mar 11, 2004 6:39 pm

Keep in mind , If you choose to run the 356 brakes , your aftermarket wheel selection will be limited . What year is the car?

Thu Mar 11, 2004 7:02 pm

After speaking with my friend who converted his 60' Beetle , He said the only alteration he recalls was doing minor re-shaping on the front backing plate , but he did mention that he had lowered spindles ... he believes that the re-shaping would not have been necessary if one were to utilize stock spindles. He confirmed that it all bolted right on (as long as you have the 356 backing plates etc.)
Note : if any of these parts are in need of replacement , the prices are not cheap ....... wheel cylinders are not priced like VW wheel cylinders , and theres more to replace than a VW.

Thu Mar 11, 2004 11:46 pm

It is a '56, some brake problems at the moment- so it is on jackstands and under cover at the moment. All wheels are off, so a straight chage of drums is easy now. Brakes if needing to be changed according to shoe size- now's the time as well. AND anything coming off the original car is goiing to get a good dose of grease and stored in a dry area in an airtight container.

Fri Mar 12, 2004 8:41 am

good point about the wheels. I know that 5 spoke empi style wheels don't work with 356 drums

Fri Mar 12, 2004 9:06 am

I was able to bolt my original Empi 5 spokes , and my Sprint stars to the drum , But I was unable to bolt my Raders to it.

Fri Mar 12, 2004 10:29 am

I think its the repro ones that don't fit