Brake swap/ID...

[camhello]

Howdy all. I picked up a dune buggy/Mad Max buggy a few months ago and am finally getting around to working on it. Got a few things to do mechanically...converting to 12 volt, getting it running, etc...

I'm wondering - how to I tell what year the brakes are? I need to know this to be able to swap the front brakes out w/ discs. I figure I might as well do the swap since I need to replace all the master cylinder, all the brake lines (including the metal ones...they're filled with crap...), and wheel cylinders anyhow.

I can't access the chassis ID. The engine is from a '57 - '59 bug (can't remember all the numbers offhand to ID it...). But the front end is a ball joint front end w/ setup for 5 bolt rims - it's got roller bearings, not ball bearings. This means '65 - '67, yes? Is there any way to narrow it down from there?

Thanks!!

Coupla pics:

[jsturtlebuggy]

Better close up pictures of what you have for suspension and brakes will help and knowing what year the chassis is always helpful.
More information = better help.
Before deciding on installing front disc brakes it would be wise to know the weight of vehicle and weight differences between front and rear.
FYI installing disc brakes on a light weight front end without installing a adjustable proportional valve can cause front brakes to lock up and tires to skid when trying to stop.

BTW, it is a interesting vehicle you have there.
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Joseph
Fair Oaks/Orangevale, CA
Elrod Motorsports
Motion Tire Motorsports
Having fun with Dune Buggies since 1970
Into Volkswagens since 1960

[camhello]

Pics should be added in this post (hopefully...).

Joseph/jsturtlebuggy - heck - I live pretty close to you (in Carmichael, off Fair Oaks) - if you have time to roll over and have any interest in checking this out, that'd be great - I'd definitely like to get your opinions!!

Thanks!!

[camhello]

[Out in the Desert]

That's a ball joint front end. '66 and later.

[ORANGECRUSHer]

^+1
exact year is unnecessary. the metal lines you speak of will have to be made by yourself anyway. Master cylinder might not be same as brakes as far as year. A lot of this stuff is just grey area stuff especially considering it's a buggy. Parts could be from any number of cars. I'd say just flip through some catalogs of VW parts and compare what you have with what you see. If your going disks most of this stuff won't need to be replaced anyway. You'll be stripping the hub down to the stub and replacing with kit parts.
Are you getting a kit?
If you have to replace metal lines you'll prolly want to pick up a double bubble flaring kit. It's what the original VW lines used and can't be found at your local parts store. Rubber lines can be bought to length from VW suppliers.
_________________
Brian H.
I may not know everything,but I will try to help if I can
OrangeCrushER Berrien Warrior 2.4L Quad4
LAZY MARY 1970 Baja 1835cc

[jsturtlebuggy]

What you appear to have is a early ball joint front end, 1966-67.
The reason I say that is it has the early small tie rod nut 10mm ID, 17mm OD.
The spindle uses a smaller ID inner wheel bearing then the 1968 and later.
That left side tie rod is from a 1960 and earlier Bug. It has fixed ends. Later ones have adjustable replaceable ends.
With the coil overs on the shock it must ride like a buckboard. They are not needed on a light weight buggy.

Yes we are near by each other. I am near Folsom and they keep trying to annex the area for a larger tax base. I like being in the county, less rules.
I will PM you.
_________________
Joseph
Fair Oaks/Orangevale, CA
Elrod Motorsports
Motion Tire Motorsports
Having fun with Dune Buggies since 1970
Into Volkswagens since 1960

[brettsvw]

You have a very cool buggy. Looks like alot of time and love went into fabricating it.
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My 59 kombi build.
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=635003&highlight=

My buggy build.
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=558601&highlight=

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=289807

[Papas66]

I bought this buggy last month and am looking for any history that might be out there.

The buggy is hand made, body is steel frame with aluminum sheet rivited, frame is shortened VW pan.

There is a parking decal from Sacramento Army Depot that looks to be decades old.

Thanks for any help

[Dale M.]

Check inside brake drum for part number (maybe)....

Dale
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“Fear The Government That Wants To Take Your Guns" - Thomas Jefferson.

"Kellison Sand Piper Roadster" For Street & Show.
"Joe Pody Sandrover" Buggy with 2180 for Autocross (Sold)
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All suggestions and advice are purely my own opinion. You are free to ignore them if you wish ...