Lower rear quarter panel changes

[noexit]

I'm not seeing it mentioned on the progressive changes thread, but HOG's catalog mentions that 60 - 66 lower rear quarter panels are different from 67 - 71 models, and that early bumpers won't fit 67 - 71 lower rears quarters due to this change. Is there anywhere that details this?

[NWGhiaGuy]

The fender wells were opened up a little in '67, possible due to the wider axles? This changed the location where the bumper ends attached. The bumpers were also different in '67 as they added extra holes for the reverse lights on top.

[noexit]

Does anyone have any photos or detailed description of the difference? I have replacement panels, but HoG seems to indicate that for pre-67 fenders, they can be made to fit - in much the same way that a flat piece of sheet metal can be made to fit.

[djkeev]

I see that KGPR lists the same piece for 1956-71. Whatever the difference is, it cannot be major. Maybe the bumper bolt hole location?

Edit: I just pulled out my HOG catalogue Spring 09, on page 54 the answer to your question is clearly stated.
The rear of the fender opening was tapered back more thus increasing the wheel opening length. As a result the bumper needed to be shortened.
It was purely a visual change, the earlier wheel opening was closer to a half circle than the later wheel opening.

The difference is minor....... But you can see it in the photos below......
Here is a 1965.....

And a 1969....

Dave
_________________
Stop Dead Photo Links how to post photos

Ghia
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=392473

Vanagon
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?p=6315537#6315537

Beetle
https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=482968&highlight=74+super+vert