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Wed Jul 16, 2025 11:46 am

Hi everyone,

I'm currently restoring a 1969 Beetle. It came without an engine, and I’m planning to install a 2.0L Subaru Impreza engine. While I’m at it, I also want to upgrade to disc brakes on all four corners.

So far, I’ve replaced the floor pans and have now moved on to the front axle. The shock absorber mounts ("ears") are pretty worn out, which leaves me with two options: either replace the entire front beam with a new one, or install adjusters, fabricate new mounts myself, and narrow the beam—so I can run wider wheels.

That brings me to my main question about the brake conversion:
Most builds I’ve seen use aftermarket disc brake kits, but I’m wondering if anyone here has experience using brakes from a donor car instead. How practical is that route, and are there any specific challenges I should be aware of? What makes and models should I look out for. I've read about the 944 conversion, but not seen much info online on alternatives.

I’ve got decent fabrication skills, time, and access to the necessary tools and resources—so I’m open to custom solutions. I’d love to hear your experiences, tips, or see examples of similar setups.

Looking forward to your insights!

Cheers,

Darius

Wed Jul 16, 2025 11:35 pm

I would recommend the book.

Hot to Modify Volkswagen Beetle Suspension Brakes and Chassis for High Performance by James Hale.

All covered very well in that book.

Thu Jul 17, 2025 1:28 am

Thanks man, greatly appreciate the suggestion! I've ordered the book online, should get it somewhere next week. Fabrication can start soon hopefully...

Thu Jul 17, 2025 6:27 am

From the performance section recently...
2nd post from top (TheRookie).
VW Golf brakes
https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=804412

I'm sure if you messaged him he'd give you details from his experience.

Thu Jul 17, 2025 11:43 am

Thanks Schepp! I will be reading up on it this afternoon.