1963 Ghia convertible about to start a restoration, need advice

[Big Mike Cbad]

Just bought a 1963, two owner, CA Ghia convertible that has been garaged for over 30 years and not running. Prior owner had it since 1967. Just got it home and I believe I have about 90%+ of the car. I didn't pull it apart so it wasn't disassembled, bagged and labeled properly so it's a giant jigsaw puzzle. I'm in need of exploded views of the entire car to figure out what parts are missing and how to reassemble it. Have seen some threads and looked at the links with parts lists, manuals, etc, but not sure it covers my 63 model. The one in German I couldn't read the parts list. Wanted to put in a post to see if anyone could guide me to relevant links that cover my year and model so I'm looking at the correct diagrams. I know there is an amazing knowledge base out there so thought I'd beg for help. Thanks in advance for sending links you think would be helpful. Also you may have seen a prior post regarding the rear shelf. Need to locate one to restore the body work to stock so if you know where to find it would love help. The pic is what I'm missing.

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1963 ghia convertible project

[sputnick60]

I think the VW parts book would be a great resource for you. Download the full document here..... https://www.thesamba.com/vw/archives/manuals/1972_ghia_parts_book.php
and the Hi Res drawings here....
https://www.thesamba.com/vw/archives/manuals/ghia_parts_diagrams.php

I used the exploded drawings to locate the part of interest in the pertinent section of the full parts list.

Let us know how you go with the project.. we are always interested

Nicholas
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'66 Karmann Ghia Cabriolet...
'65 Porsche 356C Coupe...
2005 Mecedes Benz C180 Kompressor Estate
Stop dead photo links! Post your photos to The Samba Gallery!

[Big Mike Cbad]

Nicholas, thanks so much, this is exactly what I needed. Really helpful so I appreciate it. If you can think of anything else I may need when starting a restoration, shoot me the link. I'm starting from scratch to much to learn.
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1963 ghia convertible project

[Braukuche]

Are you planning on doing bodywork and paint or just piece it together and drive?
I'm down in San Diego and have done a few Ghia restorations if you need any help identifying the parts.
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Go Reds! Smash state!

Retirement is here!
1960 double cab
1960 Baja Bug
1963 stretched double cab
1962 Golde sunroof Ghia
1963 356 B coupe
1963 Notchback
1967 21 window less rusty now
1989 Westfalia

[John Moxon]

[kingkarmann]

Congrats on your acquisition
I would also recommend the Big Blue Bentley ( BBB )

http://www.bentleypublishers.com/volkswagen/repair-information/vw-type-1-61-65-repair-manual.html

Good used ones come up from time to time.

[Big Mike Cbad]

Thanks for the group for the info, very helpful and exactly what I'm looking for. Want to learn from folks who have done it before since I'm brand new to this.
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1963 ghia convertible project

[Rome]

Hope you stick with putting your Ghia puzzle fully together. They're wonderful to drive.

moogie32 also has a '63 Cabrio, though it was a complete, running and presentable car when she bought it. Her photos show her diligently taking the car back to stock condition as to the exterior paint, engine, interior and convertible top. I'm sure many of her photos could be helpful for your car. https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/album_search.php?search_author=moogie32

[Big Mike Cbad]

For some reason couldn't access the photos in the link you sent. Let me know if there is another way to find them. I'm sure they will be helpful. Because I didnt get to pull the car apart, I don't really know what's missing and the prior owner had it sitting around for decades and lost some of the items. Jigsaw puzzle is an understatement but looking forward to the journey.

Moderator edit: Should work now.
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1963 ghia convertible project

[moogie32]

[Big Mike Cbad]

Thanks Diane, I appeciate the offer. I will definitely take you up on it when I get into it. I'm starting with some really easy stuff and will ping you when I hit something I need help with. I know there are a lot of experienced VW folks out there so I really appreciate it.
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1963 ghia convertible project