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Fri Feb 15, 2002 3:43 pm

I am working on a new project.

A 1957 23 window ragtop, which is going to be a daily driver updated with today's modern goodies.

My vision includes a modern stereo, gameboy and video hook ups, tv screens, dvd players, hot outlets, etc.

Has anybody out there tried this?

Randy

Sun Feb 17, 2002 12:19 pm

not to put a damper on your project, but i wouldn't recommend putting any of that in a 23 window. a 23 window is a very hard bus to come by, and in my opinion should be returned back to the way it came. i'd find another bus for the purpose you are trying to achieve, because of that reason, but also you wouldn't want all of that electronic equipment easily visible in an automobile surrounded by glass and canvas! because of security, as well as to what the heat would do to the electronics. but i do agree, it would be an awesome setup to have all of that in a bus, but being able to actually see the screens in the sunlight with all of those windows, might make it a little difficult!
good luck

Sun Feb 17, 2002 8:40 pm

-I partially agree with 65micros comments, I would hate to see a 23 window turned into something out of some rap video, but you can now get those dash mounted cd players with a dvd player and screen that pops right out of the dash, you can not even tell that it is in there, you can go with high tech equipment, without completly losing the beauty of the original interior design. hopefully you will not get to wild with a piece of art like a 23 window ragtop!

Tue Feb 19, 2002 6:07 am

I saw one at a show that had a custom interior similar to a westie that had all that stuff plus 4 12s in a custom plexieglass box in the rear cargo area. I asked the owner to turn on the tunes he told me he was scolded at the last show for doing that!My opnion on Resto or Custom,hey you bought it so do what you want it's all good!DavidK 71Deluxe.

Tue Feb 19, 2002 6:10 pm

I appreciate your comments.

The bus will be "A Family Car", similar to my Excursion.

The dash unit will be a hide-a-way unit. The kids stuff in the back will be all for fun.

I have a perfectly restored stock 1957 oval and 1967 bug already, (look for upcomming article in Hot-VWS)to go with a 2000 E-Net Turbo, so this will be a change.

Stock or custom, all's well.

Happy Driving....

Randy

Thu Feb 21, 2002 7:44 am

Randy - I'm with you. One of my dream project ideas is to do a split Westy pop-top with modern electronic conveniences all tastefully installed so that pure audio/video pleasure can be acheived while on the road. To keep the original utility of the package, though, the rest would be restored to original condition - there are some places you just can't go with a lowered camper, so I'd keep it stock height! I'm a bit of an audiophile, and also love the idea of kicking back in bed at the state park and watching a DVD in Vintage VW Camper Style. (That would be followed by some sweet lovin', because as I've mentioned before, nothin' goes with love of Vintage VW's like love for another.) Peace.

Thu Feb 21, 2002 9:28 am

hey randy, if you are into that stuff you should go to vintagebus.com someone has recently posted some pics of a totally awesome modernized 21 window, i think the caption of the photos is 3.6 bus. i think you will like it. good luck with your project, it is your bus so do whatever you want to it!

jeff

Thu Feb 21, 2002 9:42 am

Thanks notchgod.
I intend to keep it stock height or at most lowered by 1 - 1 1/2 inches.

I have a large family, and we all will ride in it.

Randy

Thu Feb 21, 2002 9:48 am

Thanks Jeff, I took a look at the website showing the custom bus.

That bus is way to much for me. My idea is to make the bus more fun and more easy to drive. A larger motor, and beffy trans. Porche wheels, standard seats only covered with leather. Stock floor mats, and a modern stereo (Not crazy though - I'm 45 yrs old). Some fun gadgets for my kids.

I'm fully aware of the stock vs custom debate. I feel this bus will be custom, but not overboard.

Thanks, Randy

Sat Mar 02, 2002 1:20 pm

Randy,
I know what you`re going through, Iv`e been there. I decided that I wanted to go down the Highway and Camp in comfort with out chopping my Bus up. The idea`s that you debating arent overboard. Installing a Stereo (install under dash) and other mods won`t damage your van--Returning it to stock height if you lower it is easy.Porsche Wheel you use adaptors or drill the drums-- a late model motor almost bolts-in.There has always be a debate over stock or modify--Go for it--Bill