Well
now... this little unit is certainly something you don't
see very often. There is nothing quite like a cute "Vee-Dub"
when it comes to bringing a smile to just about anyone's
face. No matter what model, their simple yet pleasing
lines are generally associated with the era of peace,
free love and hippies...
Introduced in the mid 50's, Volkswagen's Single Cab
"Drop-Side" design proved to be among the most
innovative designs of the day and clearly stretched the
definition of a utility vehicle. It's design is based on
the Microbus chassis utilizing the front section, split
window design and a unique bed with drop down side
panels opening up to a very usable 5ft x 9ft surface,
providing practical storage accessible from either side
or back with ample side to side storage under the bed.
Well preserved Single Cab examples such as this have
become increasingly rare and hard to find...
Recently completed, this very solid unit has received a
thorough restoration over the past year and a half.
Prior to the restoration, this dry climate specimen was
virtually rust free and only common areas needed minor
repair (a couple places in rocker panels and sides of
rear gate). During the body restoration, fabricated skirts
with quick release fasteners were added to allow easier
removal of rear wheel/tire assembly. The undercarriage
was cleaned, prepped and treated with a light under coat
and the interior bed surfaces have been protected with
sprayed in bed liner. Correctly prepped with only minor
repairs needed, it received a professional
basecoat-clearcoat two-tone refinish inside and out...
With
all work performed by professional repair shops, the
running gear received the same level of attention.
Starting with a new and completely balanced 1600
cc single carburetor engine (built at RMF Inc. in Boise,
ID) that utilizes new cylinder heads (rather than
machining used), new carburetor and other related items.
The engine was installed with all needed tin for the
heater boxes to operate correctly. The gearing was
updated with a passenger Bug transmission (1968?) to
provide a better driving ratio's including new transmission
mounts and birdies in the shift tunnel. Other restored
items include new steering box, brake master cylinder
and complete bumper to bumper maintenance (i.e., wheel
bearings repacked, new tires etc). Ready to Drive...
The
interior is as designed, clean, simple, functional and
usable. It has been updated with reproduction materials
including new upholstery, new door panels, nose panel,
rubber floor mat and new weather-stripping throughout.
Added for safety are later model shoulder/seat belts and
the spare tire/rim & jack etc are in place. A new
antenna has been installed, the factory radio mounted
surface is unmolested and ready for a new radio. All
factory gauges are functional and an updated VDO mini
tachometer was tastefully added under the dash next to
the steering column. The headliner is bare and ready for
a new panel which is not currently available
aftermarket, however the owner has obtained an estimate
to install a new headliner in the VW Single Cab - $350,
it would be very similar material as the doors and to
what was originally in the cab and would be glad to have
it done at the new buyer's expense prior to shipping....
In
closing, this "Vee-Dub" truck is in excellent condition - nearly
show-level daily driver with no excuses. Fun to drive,
you will gets lots of attention... Throw on some
tie-dye, load up a mattress, several hippies and relive
yesterday today... Far Out Man - Peace :) |
