Hello! Log in or Register   |  Help  |  Donate  |  Buy Shirts See all banner ads | Advertise on TheSamba.com  
TheSamba.com
 
57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project
Page: Previous  1, 2, 3 ... 13, 14, 15 ... 17, 18, 19  Next
Jump to:
Forum Index -> Beetle - Oval-Window - 1953-57 Share: Facebook Twitter
Reply to topic
Print View
Quick sort: Show newest posts on top | Show oldest posts on top View previous topic :: View next topic  
Author Message
VeloMikey
Samba Member


Joined: March 19, 2012
Posts: 646
Location: So Cal
VeloMikey is offline 

PostPosted: Wed Nov 25, 2015 10:37 am    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

Is that Ultramarine Blue?
_________________
'58 Ghia 2387cc with a Berg / Folts 5 Speed

Ghia Build Thread https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=768748
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Instagram Gallery Classifieds Feedback
JeffL
Samba Member


Joined: September 04, 2004
Posts: 1370

JeffL is offline 

PostPosted: Thu Nov 26, 2015 9:50 am    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

CerveloMikey wrote:
Is that Ultramarine Blue?


It came up when I was searching for Azure blue so I'm not sure. If anyone did a paint match of a true Azure blue car I would be interested in the formula.
_________________
http://karmannghias.org/
https://karmannghias.org/GAlken/index.html
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
obieoberstar
Samba Member


Joined: March 07, 2002
Posts: 1126
Location: Tucson
obieoberstar is offline 

PostPosted: Tue Dec 01, 2015 6:34 pm    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

who is going to be painting your Alken?
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Send e-mail Gallery Classifieds Feedback
JeffL
Samba Member


Joined: September 04, 2004
Posts: 1370

JeffL is offline 

PostPosted: Fri Dec 04, 2015 8:44 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

JeffL wrote:


On the net I just figured out that the license lights are from a 57 Ford. It has a FL57 cast into it.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.


I finally located the NOS rear license light lenses. They were uncommon because they were from a 57 Ford Country Squire Wagon.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

_________________
http://karmannghias.org/
https://karmannghias.org/GAlken/index.html
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
JeffL
Samba Member


Joined: September 04, 2004
Posts: 1370

JeffL is offline 

PostPosted: Fri Dec 04, 2015 8:57 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

JeffL wrote:
Worked through the door latches the last few days.

The Ford latches are pulled by a cable. The cable goes to the rear of the doors, goes around a pulley, out through the door panel and through a rubber cord. The cable is anchored on one end but movable on the other (rear). You can see the cable through the one hole running from the latch to pulley.

This was the rope rail on the back seat of a 50 Flat Head Shoe Box Ford. I spend months trying to figure out where/what the chrome ends were from. I was missing three of the chrome pieces. Once I understood what there were it only took a month to purchase the missing ones. Quite simple.

The last photo shows the cleaned and plated hardware.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.


The door pull spears I could not find NOS but found 4 nice ends to plate. At Fall Hershey this year I found a good picture of a 52 Ford Crestline Convertible that had these spears. These were only on the convertible.

Later, I saw a 53 Nash Healey, one of my favorites, and it looks like the Alken guys like them too because the door pull seems to be inspired by this car.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

_________________
http://karmannghias.org/
https://karmannghias.org/GAlken/index.html


Last edited by JeffL on Fri Dec 04, 2015 9:30 am; edited 1 time in total
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
JeffL
Samba Member


Joined: September 04, 2004
Posts: 1370

JeffL is offline 

PostPosted: Fri Dec 04, 2015 9:05 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

JeffL wrote:
Working on the wiring harness today. I decided to buy a new 56/57 Beetle harness and if I have to lengthen it I will do it in the heater channel where it can not be seen. I bought enough heat shrink tubing today and a gun to equal the cost of the Wiring Works harness Shocked

I need to find the right stly brass looking crimp on loop connectors and brown ground wire to get grounds out to all of the lights.

These are the 48 Chevy style turn signals used originally on the build. Just test fitting the new ones I bought.

Below the test fit are pictures of the Blue Alken and our Alken. Both must have been built at the same time then transfered to NicLSilver.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.
Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.


Since I am doing some documenting on where they got period parts for the Alken here is a nice photo of a 48 Chevy where they chose the tail lights.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

_________________
http://karmannghias.org/
https://karmannghias.org/GAlken/index.html
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
JeffL
Samba Member


Joined: September 04, 2004
Posts: 1370

JeffL is offline 

PostPosted: Fri Dec 04, 2015 9:07 am    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

obieoberstar wrote:
who is going to be painting your Alken?


I found a shop in Akron, Ohio that has done some specialty cars overtime. I'm glad I was able to get into his schedule.

Here is an Auburn that he did and the upholstery guy I am using did this car too.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

_________________
http://karmannghias.org/
https://karmannghias.org/GAlken/index.html
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
JeffL
Samba Member


Joined: September 04, 2004
Posts: 1370

JeffL is offline 

PostPosted: Fri Dec 04, 2015 10:56 am    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

Looking to add a little bit to the Alken.

I am thinking of have a Porsche script scanned, changed to Alken D2 and 3D printed for on the dash like the speedsters. This way it will have some identification.

I will also look to make a few VIN tags. Possibly put in the luggage or engine compartment. The chassis has a specialty vehicle tag mounted over the standard pan VIN. It would be all black and silver, this was just a mock up for the supplier.

Just playing a little and will look for a source.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

_________________
http://karmannghias.org/
https://karmannghias.org/GAlken/index.html
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
JeffL
Samba Member


Joined: September 04, 2004
Posts: 1370

JeffL is offline 

PostPosted: Wed Dec 23, 2015 7:49 pm    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

Great research by my friend Geoff Hacker at Forgotten Fiberglass. Goeff uncovered some racing photos of the Alken from 1958 that go with the one racing photo from news clippings that were popular but grainy.

What I like is this photo shows the license plate and that the race car was used in a lot of other Alken advertisements at the time. MUB853 We don't know where this car is, it is unique because it used 4 late 50s Beetle tail lights in the rear not seen on any other photos or the 4 remaining cars.

All of the early documentation of the Alken helps to assure these were important to the development of specialty bodies.

More than likely this was Ray Beckers car based upon him saying that his car was used in the Alken brochure. The Alken brochure shows 4 Beelte tail lights. Ray never talked about them racing his car. Certainly the young lady sitting in the car in the brochure is the same lady standing next to the car in the photos before. One of the photos in the brochure shows this license plate.

Does anyone have a way to look up owners of old CA license plates?

What's the one car in the background, a Panhard Dyna Jr?

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

_________________
http://karmannghias.org/
https://karmannghias.org/GAlken/index.html
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
JeffL
Samba Member


Joined: September 04, 2004
Posts: 1370

JeffL is offline 

PostPosted: Mon Jan 04, 2016 9:47 am    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

Happy New Years

In completing the engine we ran into a bad carb. Here someone already stripped the fuel line input and used a 13mm banjo bolt (not sure where they found it). I ordered a thread kit and correct 12mm from Summit racing. Luckily they are only about 30 mi away. If I get that repaired this week and the hi temp coated exhaust back we will fire it up. This carb also had the jet cover stripped and I already repaired it.

The Knecht labels came in for the oil filter. They look quite nice and add some more color.

It seems the supply company I wanted all the fabrics went out of business so we are re-starting the search.

The 3D printed dash script is under way.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.


Also looking to have a 3D rendering of the Alken made and possibly 3D print it! This will add some of the latest technology to what was new technology in the 50s, the Alken.

I know I over plated some items on the engine, it is a pretty dark engine bay so we wanted to spice things up a little. We can always change the color back later if needed.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

_________________
http://karmannghias.org/
https://karmannghias.org/GAlken/index.html
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
Erik G
Samba Member


Joined: October 16, 2002
Posts: 13247
Location: Tejas!
Erik G is offline 

PostPosted: Mon Jan 04, 2016 3:18 pm    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

the engine looks great - thanks for keeping us up to date on this awesome car
_________________
Stop dead photo links! Post your photos to The Samba Gallery!
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Facebook Instagram Gallery Classifieds Feedback
JeffL
Samba Member


Joined: September 04, 2004
Posts: 1370

JeffL is offline 

PostPosted: Thu Jan 07, 2016 4:49 pm    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

thanks for the compliment

Here is a look at the first 3D rendering, awesome

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.



Version 2, this is as much fun as building the car, maybe more fun. Lots of details to do yet.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

_________________
http://karmannghias.org/
https://karmannghias.org/GAlken/index.html
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
JeffL
Samba Member


Joined: September 04, 2004
Posts: 1370

JeffL is offline 

PostPosted: Fri Jan 08, 2016 3:35 pm    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

JeffL wrote:
Happy New Years

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.


Well I learned that you can drill and tap too far in the top of the carb. I actually had two threads of the helicoil cut into the top of the carb body and ruin it. Looking for a nice carb top now.....
_________________
http://karmannghias.org/
https://karmannghias.org/GAlken/index.html
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
Jacks
Samba Member


Joined: July 15, 2006
Posts: 2344
Location: San Clemente, Ca.
Jacks is offline 

PostPosted: Fri Jan 08, 2016 9:00 pm    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

Oah, a helicoil is a bad choice for this repair, due to the very narrow sealing surface of the banjo fitting. A modified Timesert will give much better results. Leaks often occur at these fittings because of irregular surface at the carb. Remachining or careful flat filing can correct this. Oversize OD fiber washers (I don't like to use aluminium washers. Copper type is a no-no) can also be a solution. The number one cause of failure here is over-tightening, usually when a fuel leak is detected. Another issue is use of non original banjo bolts that are too short for adequate purchase. Too long has additional problems...
_________________
Jack Staggs
Actual name
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Send e-mail Classifieds Feedback
JeffL
Samba Member


Joined: September 04, 2004
Posts: 1370

JeffL is offline 

PostPosted: Sat Jan 09, 2016 7:00 am    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

Jacks wrote:
Oah, a helicoil is a bad choice for this repair, due to the very narrow sealing surface of the banjo fitting. A modified Timesert will give much better results. Leaks often occur at these fittings because of irregular surface at the carb. Remachining or careful flat filing can correct this. Oversize OD fiber washers (I don't like to use aluminium washers. Copper type is a no-no) can also be a solution. The number one cause of failure here is over-tightening, usually when a fuel leak is detected. Another issue is use of non original banjo bolts that are too short for adequate purchase. Too long has additional problems...


Thanks, I had to look up Timesert, I have seen these installed but didn't know what they were called. All points make a lot of sense. Certainly provides a good sealing surface.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

_________________
http://karmannghias.org/
https://karmannghias.org/GAlken/index.html
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
splitjunkie
Samba Member


Joined: April 04, 2006
Posts: 4083

splitjunkie is offline 

PostPosted: Sat Jan 09, 2016 1:53 pm    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

What happened to the carb top that makes you say it is ruined?
_________________
Chris

You know, a lot of these scratches will buff right out... Jerry Seinfeld
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
JeffL
Samba Member


Joined: September 04, 2004
Posts: 1370

JeffL is offline 

PostPosted: Sat Jan 09, 2016 4:00 pm    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

splitjunkie wrote:
What happened to the carb top that makes you say it is ruined?


When I was cutting in the threads for the insert I went too far and it cut into the float chamber. Those last 2 turns.....
_________________
http://karmannghias.org/
https://karmannghias.org/GAlken/index.html
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
GüteAndTite
Early Convertible Güru


Joined: June 16, 2005
Posts: 2144
Location: Low So Cal
GüteAndTite is offline 

PostPosted: Sat Jan 09, 2016 6:23 pm    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

JeffL wrote:
Happy New Years

In completing the engine we ran into a bad carb. Here someone already stripped the fuel line input and used a 13mm banjo bolt (not sure where they found it). I ordered a thread kit and correct 12mm from Summit racing. Luckily they are only about 30 mi away. If I get that repaired this week and the hi temp coated exhaust back we will fire it up. This carb also had the jet cover stripped and I already repaired it.

The Knecht labels came in for the oil filter. They look quite nice and add some more color.

It seems the supply company I wanted all the fabrics went out of business so we are re-starting the search.

The 3D printed dash script is under way.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.


Also looking to have a 3D rendering of the Alken made and possibly 3D print it! This will add some of the latest technology to what was new technology in the 50s, the Alken.

I know I over plated some items on the engine, it is a pretty dark engine bay so we wanted to spice things up a little. We can always change the color back later if needed.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.


what company did the 3D script for the dash?
_________________
Official 58-60 "Early Big Window" Convertible Thread & Registry
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=426481
F&S Saxomat Automatic Clutch System Thread
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=462533
61-67 Delanair Air conditioning Thread
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=457944&highlight=air+conditioning

PUNCTUATION CHANGES THE WORLD: "I need to help my uncle, Jack, off a horse" is way better than, "I need to help my uncle jack off a horse"
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Send e-mail Gallery Classifieds Feedback
JeffL
Samba Member


Joined: September 04, 2004
Posts: 1370

JeffL is offline 

PostPosted: Sat Jan 09, 2016 6:37 pm    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

Working with a company by Pittsburgh to make the script. They have made some 300sl scripts for Gullwings they have restored when they couldn't find the badging!

I will keep the thread posted on the progress. I started with the shop but I think they have it printed in stainless by someone then polish and chrome plate it.

My brother toured their shop as part of an AACA event.

http://hahnvorbach.com/

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

_________________
http://karmannghias.org/
https://karmannghias.org/GAlken/index.html
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Gallery Classifieds Feedback
Jacks
Samba Member


Joined: July 15, 2006
Posts: 2344
Location: San Clemente, Ca.
Jacks is offline 

PostPosted: Sat Jan 09, 2016 9:06 pm    Post subject: Re: 57/58 Alken Fiberglass Coachbuilt Project Reply with quote

JeffL wrote:

I know I over plated some items on the engine, it is a pretty dark engine bay so we wanted to spice things up a little. We can always change the color back later if needed.
Jeff, I think you did a marvelous job on the detailing of your engine. The only deviations from factoty paint/plating would be the clip for the oil filler cap would have normally be painted black (I have often had these plated for durability), and the carb linkage cross bar would have been plated, not painted. Oh, flip the carb down links over so that double nuts at the ball sockets are at the top, rather than the bottom.
It all looks really, really, great.
Well done! Nice to see you back on the project, and thanks for the terrific photos of the Alken in competition. It adds so much to the mystique af these rare cars.
_________________
Jack Staggs
Actual name
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Send e-mail Classifieds Feedback
Display posts from previous:   
Reply to topic    Forum Index -> Beetle - Oval-Window - 1953-57 All times are Mountain Standard Time/Pacific Daylight Savings Time
Page: Previous  1, 2, 3 ... 13, 14, 15 ... 17, 18, 19  Next
Jump to:
Page 14 of 19

 
Jump to:  
You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot vote in polls in this forum

About | Help! | Advertise | Donate | Premium Membership | Privacy/Terms of Use | Contact Us | Site Map
Copyright © 1996-2023, Everett Barnes. All Rights Reserved.
Not affiliated with or sponsored by Volkswagen of America | Forum powered by phpBB
Links to eBay or other vendor sites may be affiliate links where the site receives compensation.