Finally got myself a beetle!

[T.T.]

Quick introduction I guess.
I live in southeastern Idaho, and car prices, (not just beetles) are unusually inflated around here. After a lot of searching, I finally found this 1970 Beetle in Rifle Colorado for $6000. I was able to get it, and I gotta say, I'm super happy with it.
Everything is super solid (all rust is just surface rust for now). It runs great, (I even daily drive it as much as I can). The interior is even in pretty good condition.

That cruddy buick next to it is the car I drive when I want something less reliable, but with AC

I've already done some small things to it, like replacing all the vapor lines, putting the stock shifter back in, and retractable seat belts. This winter I'll probably gut the wiring and redo it. The current wiring is atrocious.

My plan for this beetle is to slowly make it into what I think would be the "ultimate" daily driver. I want to add things like AC and better heating (it gets flipping cold here in Idaho). Additionally, I'm thinking about putting a Type 4 engine in for the extra bit of power and reliability, though, I'm considering building this engine out to 1776cc. Regardless of which engine I do, I plan on doing EFI using a speeduino.

Any other beetle owners down here in southeastern Idaho or northern Utah? It's nice to finally be a part of this community

[rusty_74_bug]

Nice Bug!
_________________
'74 Standard Bug

[67rustavenger]

T.T. Welcome to the samba.
Your find looks like a great start to your new love.

Are you in Idiot Flats, BlackFoot, Pokey, or parts further south.
I winter drove a couple of my vw's years ago when I lived in IF.
These day's it's not recommended to drive these in salty environments.
But it's your car. So do with it as you will.

ACVW AC systems sap HP. It's not that hot there! Well, maybe August. But it's tolerable.
I drove my 69 Baja in the Phoenix back in the early 90's. Now that was HOT!
Just roll down the windows and enjoy the breeze.

IIRC: there is a VW show in IF in the spring/summer. Maybe attend the show and make some new "like minded" friends.

Enjoy you time here and in your new to you ride. Have fun!
_________________
I have learned over the years.
Cheap parts are gonna disappoint you.
Buy Once, Cry Once!

There's never enough time to do it right the first time. But there's always enough time to do it thrice.
GFY's Xevin and VW_Jimbo!

[T.T.]

Thanks! I'm further south in cache valley.

I won't be driving it in the salt yet, I'd like to take some measures to protect the steel against salt.

As for the AC systems sucking power, I'm pretty okay with losing a few HP for the comfort, the beetle has more than enough power for 98% of my driving. If I need some power for the rare on-ramp, I'll turn off the AC

I didn't know about the show in Idaho Falls! I might have make my way to that one.

[67rustavenger]

[VW_Jimbo]

Very nice!!! I love 1970 Bugs! Have rebuilt several dozen of them. Have fun with it! It looks to be in great shape!
_________________
Jimbo

There is never enough time to do it right the first time, but all the time necessary the second time!