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rocknrollpreacher1
Samba Member
Joined: November 09, 2018
Posts: 1
Location: North Staffs
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 Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 1:42 pm Post subject: '73 Beetle Cabrio. Disability Modification Questions. |
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Hi all.
I've got a '73 Cabrio which I love. It's only a 1600 single port.
I'm disabled (Fibromyalgia/Ataxia/Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome). Does anyone know if it's possible to retro-fit Power Steering, Power Assisted Brakes, or even an auto gearbox?
I really don't want to sell my bug.
Any thoughts?
cheers
Chris |
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Starbucket
Samba Member
Joined: April 30, 2007
Posts: 4025
Location: WA
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| Posted: Fri Nov 09, 2018 3:25 pm Post subject: Re: '73 Beetle Cabrio. Disability Modification Questions. |
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| Power steering would be over kill as a stock VW is so light as is, so airing the front tires to 35 PSI (I know the correct pressure so don't yell other readers) would make it easier. The Brakes can have a Disc Brake kit conversion (not expensive at all) and it would be as good as Power brakes on these cars. Auto stick might be possible as I know you can go the other way but I never heard of someone converting to one (Maybe someone one here would be willing to trade for your 4 speed). Good luck but I know nothing of your condition or the Disability you have and hope this helps. |
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vwfreek61
Samba Member
Joined: May 31, 2004
Posts: 350
Location: Green Bay, WI
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| Posted: Mon Nov 12, 2018 11:03 am Post subject: Re: '73 Beetle Cabrio. Disability Modification Questions. |
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| rocknrollpreacher1 wrote: |
| I'm disabled (Fibromyalgia/Ataxia/Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome). Does anyone know if it's possible to retro-fit Power Steering, Power Assisted Brakes, or even an auto gearbox? |
An electric power steering column would probably be the easiest way to retro-fit power steering in a Bug. I did this on my Vanagon, there is some fabrication involved but it's not too difficult.
Back in the '60s or '70s there were aftermarket power brake kits available for the Type 1. They are rare, but keep an eye on the classified ads and one might come up for sale.
An autostick transmission would be a good option, it bolts right in. You just need to drill some extra holes for vacuum lines, brackets, etc. It would be best to find someone with an autostick that wants to do a manual conversion and trade parts, then you wouldn't need to try to track down all the little bits and pieces to make everything work.
_________________
Kenneth
1964 Bug with Saxomat
1976 VW/Harley Trike Autostick
1987 Vanagon Westy w/Subaru EJ25 and reversed 4EAT |
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AlmostHeavenWV_VW 
Samba Member
Joined: October 12, 2017
Posts: 1965
Location: WV
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| Posted: Tue Nov 13, 2018 7:45 pm Post subject: Re: '73 Beetle Cabrio. Disability Modification Questions. |
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I know it's not the answer you'd like to hear, but consider a trade/selling your 4speed beetle for a functioning, good condition autostick beetle
Then get disc brake kit of your choice:
https://www.jbugs.com/store/merchant.mvc?Screen=SSEARCH&q=disc+brake+conversion+kit
And an electric power steering as suggested above: These are used on sandrails, bajas, etc for ease of steering in the off road.
https://www.jbugs.com/product/PS-U-220.html
Consider good seats (either refurbish the stock or get an aftermarket kit like I did). "Bolstered" side seats may help you allow the seat to 'do the work' of keeping you 'in place' and reduce your fatigue on winding roads or longer drives
https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=696324&highlight=
No matter what:
Happy Bug'n
_________________
1973 Standard Beetle
1600DP AK case
Solex 34PICT3 Carb
Bosch DVDA 205AJ Distributor |
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