Choosing a suitable donor VW Beetle Please check the guidance given here to ensure you have a suitable vehicle for your buggy... Which Model? GP kits are designed to fit the torsion bar front suspension chassis of the Type 1 VW Beetle, which includes all standard models except the 1302, 1302S, 1303 and 1303S. These can still be used, although it involves changing the whole MacPherson strut front end for a new chassis frame head to hold the torsion bar front, plus a flat fuel tank. This is certainly worth the extra effort, as this will give you the vastly superior double jointed independent rear suspension (IRS) for better roadholding. What Age? Any age of Beetle can be used, although a 1961 or later is preferable and best of all is a post-1967 with 12V electrics, ball-joints and 4 stud wheel hubs. This has the benefit of components being more plentiful and also cheaper than those from earlier models. Later 4 stud hubs have better brakes, plus early 5 stud wide wheels are now difficult to obtain and banded wheels are now illegal!

Table of Contents : What you need to do the job,  Choosing a suitable donor VW Beetle, Stripping the donor VW down to the chassis, Shortening the chassis *[for SWB GP Beach Buggy only],  Part A: Removing Components from the rolling chassis, Part B: Measuring up and cutting the chassis METHOD ONE - DIAGONAL TUNNEL, Part C:  Measuring up and cutting the chassis METHOD TWO - DIAGONAL FLOORPAN, Part D: Removal of the 400mm section & Welding it back together, Preparing the chassis, Mounting your GP body to the chassis, Fitting optional components, Final checks and your on the way to an MOT!