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Beetle Handling...
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Joined: April 19, 2002
Posts: 5

twk@eurekanet.com is offline 

PostPosted: Fri Apr 26, 2002 8:07 pm    Post subject: Beetle Handling... Reply with quote

I have a 62 sedan that is in well preserved condition and stock as a far as the suspension is concerned. All is in good order and properly maintained. I would like to improve the handling performance/characteristics, and was hoping to get some feedback from the forum.
Camber compensator? Rear anti-sway bar? Front anti-sway bar? Change in caster/camber specs? Any benefit in lowering the front end?
I sure would like to hear from anyone who has delved into this area and reached a satisfactory return from their efforts.
I know with the rear weight bias it will never handle like an Elan, but I'm sure there is much improvement to be gained from the right sequence and parts.
Thanks in advance,
TK
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Joined: March 27, 2002
Posts: 138

Anti- is offline 

PostPosted: Wed May 01, 2002 5:59 pm    Post subject: Beetle Handling... Reply with quote

A camber compensator will help prevent the car from rolling excessively and may prevent outside wheel tuck-in which causes rollovers on swingaxle cars like yours. Bigger front roll bar prevents body lean, but will negatively affect the ride. If the car wanders after the spindles have been rebuilt, you may benefit from adding caster shims but this is usually only needed when the front has been lowered and the rear has not. Lowering a bug is for looks--and you won't be able to use a camber compensator if you do that.
IMHO there are four things you can do to your car that will make a nice difference. One is major and three are minor...
1) Swap pans to IRS from swingaxle and devalue your car.
2) Skip #1...but replace the spring plate bushings even if they look fine.
3) High end tires
4) Bilstein shocks.

Good luck, and always remember that if you want to change direction in a hurry, a bug is probably not a good car to do it in!!
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