New owner in FL

[Nailz]

Evening all,

Just purchased a Sterling Nova body two weeks ago. I believe I was more in the “OMG I have a chance to get one” mindset as opposed to the “Ok, let’s really look at this thing” mindset. It has a bunch of fiberglass cracks that will need to be repaired. The previous owner, or the one before him, or… cut out a bunch of the glass around the headlight area, and the tunnel. Fiberglass can all be patched and fixed correct? Have a 72 beetle chassis ready to get next week. Obviously the floor pans will need to be replaced, and I’m thinking of having it media blasted to get a good look at any repairs that may be needed. It was suggested to me to get a kingpin linkpin front suspension, this 72 has ball joints. Is there a difference in handling? Can a K/L suspension be adapted/welded to this frame if I decide to go that way? Next is a motor, suggestions on CC-wise? Was thinking a 1600.
Thanks all.

Hoping to learn from all your builds!
Nailz

 

[Brett Proctor]

Fiberglass can all be patched and fixed correct?
Yes you should be able to fix any issues. Procedures may vary for the repairs but you should be able to fix damage to fiberglass.

It was suggested to me to get a kingpin linkpin front suspension,
For this application Ball joint suspension will work fine. Kingpin suspension is used for severe applications mostly. (Off road applications)
Plus I don't think king pin torsion tubes will fit a ball joint setup. the spacing between the top and bottom torsion tubes are different. So a kinkpin setup wont bolt up to a ball joint front mounts. Not positive about that but if your going to switch I would check that before buying parts to change it over.

Next is a motor, suggestions on CC-wise? Was thinking a 1600.
I don't have a 1600 in my car but from members that are using that motor I haven't heard any complaints. The duel port heads are the hot setup.