where do i start?

[hannel73]

ok so here i go..... my 73 super is my DD. I cant really have it not running for more than a week or so. my loooong list of projects is never ending and i want to save some $ by doing as much of the restoration myself as i can. its a daunting task and i have no clue where to start...so heres my 'wish' list:

-the body has a little bubble rust by the rear window vents (will post pics soon) and minor dents and dings all over
-needs new wiring. where should i get the wiring from?
-new carpet
-new upholstery(seats)
-new steering wheel. i want an aftermarket wooden one but dont know if i need an adapter kit
-new headliner
-i want a non padded metal dash. how hard is this for a beginner?
-body rubber? replace it all at once? before or after paint?
-what is included in prep work for paint?

AND MOST IMPORTANTLY....what can i do myself and what should i leave to the pros?

[JinxedSydney]

First of all, you can do it all yourself. The question is, since you want to save the money, will you be taking your time to do it correctly? Sounds like you want a total rehaul. If it is your DD, you may need to have a shop paint it unless you have the tools and access to a paint booth.

- You can do your own painting prep work. Saves tons of money. This is the right section of the forums. Search the sticky above for the paint process.
- Why new wiring? Is the old stuff chewed or fried? New harnesses run $300, but are a cinch to install. Various vendors sell them, you'll have to check who has your year in stock.
- New carpet is easy to install. Price varies by style, color and year.
- Ditto on the seat covers. Just did it myself after buying a used set here on the Samba. Wait for a sunny day to heat the vinyl.
- Yes, you may need an adaptor.
- Headliners are either easy or not so easy depending on your patience level. It has to be installed AFTER paint, but before the new seals
- Unscrew the pads.
- I'd replace it all at once. You can keep costs down buy buying a piece or two at a time until the paint is done.
- Read the sticky for prep work.

You can do a lot yourself, just realize that it does take time and money. Less money if you have more time.

Good luck!
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'63 Beetle "Gertie"
Yes, I am indeed a chick that does her own work on her own Dub.

[Matt K.]

My two cents would be to fix the problems ailing the wiring as the rest of it will not matter if your DD burns to the ground. Then start fixing the problems you feel comfortable doing yourself.
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This is my 23rd year in the Auto Body/Paint Game!
*Take a look at some of my custom paint: http://s110.photobucket.com/albums/n119/mrpaint_2006/ .( NOTE: these are some older jobs but still neat.)