The Six Sides of Steve.

One of my many passions besides teaching, scouting and technology is my love for old cars, in particular Volkswagens.

My darling wife has been kind enough to allow me to indulge in my passion and let me purchase another old volkswagen beetle for commuting to and from work. As this is a commuting car it is essential it is reliable and safe.

My newest VW is called “The Yowie”. It’s a 63 Baja (Swing axle / Link pin). At some stage someone really loved this Baja but at present it’s a little rough around the edges. This post is simply for my own reference and a simple to do list. As you can see most points are fairly minor but essential for reliability. As I work through each one I’ll return to this post and cross it off to show my progress. My priorities are to start with the safety aspects, then mechanical and finally cosmetic / comfort. I hope to have the first two lists done within the next month. The cosmetic and comfort will be ongoing.

Safety List:

1. Purchase a rust free, 12 volt car with front disc brakes
2. Adjust handbrake and brake test to pink slip standards
3. Fit seat replacement seat belts front and rear
4. Return fuel tank to front of vehicle
5. Replace aged tyres for new rubber In Progress
6. Install dual master cylinder
7. Replace engine mounts and strap transaxle.
8. Rewire engine bay and secure loose wiring.
9. Remove live wires from under bonnet
10. Clean windows and Rainx windows exterior

Mechanical List:

1. Recondition wiring loom for reliability
2. Bypass voltage regulator
3. Bolt down battery
4. Restore engine cooling system to factory
5. Install RearSeats and Seat Harness Anchor.
6. Ensure charge and oil indicator lamps are functional
7. Replace tail lenses
8. Improve headlight operation and access (dual relay & improved lamps)
9. Install auditory buzzer onto oil pressure lamp.
10. Replace steering column for early VW or Ford Mondeo unit.

Cosmetic / Comfort

1. Pressure wash clean suspension, transaxle and engine bays
2. Install front and rear seat covers
3. Carpet floors, firewall and kick boards
4. Replace door and wall cards (decorative metal)
5. Detail and paint for rust protection engine bay
6. Prepare and repaint internal and external surfaces
7. Install internal lighting and fire protection equipment In Progress
8. Install sound system and speakers into a parcel shelf
9. Replace headlining with marine carpet
10. Replace heating system with alternative system

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