Saving parts in case someone else want them - why?
 

A lot has happened in the last couple years, big one was Dad passed away and I inherited his 1964 Volkswagen Beetle he bought in 1968. This means yet another collection of parts. Now I am absolutely busting at the seams.

With so many projects and my health not the best, I am really considering if would ever have another early W123, I do prefer the 1985 model. Plus, why save stuff because of some emotional obligation? So then why should I save the parts which were specific to the 1979 TD?

Anyone want these parts or should they just be recycled?

TIA :)

What kind of parts are we talking here?

Interior panels, transmission, engine sans head, drive shaft, the entire exhaust system, front seats needing to be rebuilt, rear seats, and odds and ends.

I'm mildly interested in finding a flange for my 300D's exhaust, but it's on the back burner. As a last resort to scrapping the parts if it has to come to that, I wonder if these guys: https://www.dieselmercedes.com/ would be interested in them?

My philosophy on saving parts is to save the items that are special and can be rebuilt and items that cannot be found easily. If it is something that is built currently and at reasonable price/availability, I would just throw away the OEM part if it is ancient.

Dkr.

Those prices at dieselmercedes seem like madness. $2700 for a direct 617 swap?

I wouldn't mind having a third row seat and mounting hardware to add to my fintail wagon. And actually, second row removable headrests and hardware are also on my to-get list when I'm able.

Saving Parts
 

This is just one of those things some enthusiasts do .

I'm guilty of it and now that I'm old and slowing down, I worry about off loading my bits & bobs so they don't wind u[ in the landfill .

I have given away quite a lot of good used parts over the decades and a few have returned the favor so I think it's a good thing to do if you have the space and if you're able to prevent the parts from owning you instead of the other way 'round .

I'm sure you know that old VW parts are NOT TRASH and will not toss out anything .

I have a battered survivor 1959 Beetle that I was able to replace most of the wrong parts on (including the engine) from my piles of old VW parts set aside since the early 1970's .

A while back I needed the third row seat belts for my 1984 gray market 300TD, I was able to source them affordably from another parts saver who'd scrapped out a rusty 1979 300TD....

I can have a look when I am more recovered, right now hard to even get across the home with a damn walker. So, part of why been doing so much thinking.


Exactly! However, what does one do when it becomes piles outside that has started becoming an interesting home for pack rats? For example, I could put all those plastic trim parts up in the attic where have room, however gets so hot, doubt last long at all. So much of these Mercedes parts are plastic even if were saved for long in the future, would they still be usable?


A lot of Kent's prices are, however, some things are unique to him. For example, his manuals and kits been really helpful, plus I have his gasoline fuel injector cleaner rig and found fairly worth the money (the plastic lid quickly disintegrated).


I don't know where I said I have a third row seat. I don't recall if I have any rear head rests, been so long ago and after two TBIs (neither my fault) I don't have the best memory. When do have the energy and start going through the stuff and find a set, will of course set them aside.


When I was tossed into the cold February night of the year 1998, just turned 11, Dad drove the long drive and rescued me. He lived with his parents as his former wife took his credit and all he had, couldn't get a house of his own. This was great for me, Oma and Opa did a lot of the child raising, I certainly put them through a lot especially Oma, however, I believe I stayed out of the system and became the person I am. So when Dad passed, there was three generations of stuff I had to go through and decide what to bring back. Plus, Dad's Sister illegally gained the property, destroyed and disposed of most of Dad's stuff (the stuff destroyed left to for us to see and hurt us), then only allowed a short time to sort. I had a lot of Volkswagen Squareback parts, a small truck, so I had to leave stuff behind. No one local wanted it, hurt really bad, however, nothing I could do.

I am turning 34 on Sunday, I have been so busy I have not dated, no children, and so when I die, the parts for each vehicle will be loaded into them, then sold, except for the Beetle which stays in the family. So even if I save all these parts, they still could end up getting tossed.

My hope with this thread was to find out if anyone is interested in any of it, so far seems only a few odds and ends, am I wrong? How do I do a better job of rehoming the stuff I no longer have space for?

See if someone nearby wants to come get all of it?

I am fine with that, however, none have shown an interest.

You didn't, but if you do, those would be of interest. I figured that between two wagons and the parts it's possible. If I had more room here I'd take the lot and put a wagon together out of it all. Sadly, there is not enough space.

I don't know how good you are with computers, but I've done okay selling parts here and on eBay. But, it takes lots of pictures, a good description, and a bit of time. I find that the majority of things I sell go overseas.

Third row seats were an option in the 1960s fintail wagon I have, but finding one for it would be impossible. I like the idea of fitting one from a W123. I think it could be done. It has a split second row bench seat that folds up, and I think adding the folding headrests from a W123 second row seat would be really neat.

I'm just gathering parts for it when the opportunities arise. One day I want it to be my daily driver, but I've essentially got to cut the roof and rear section off of it and weld it onto the sedan I have because the lower structure of the wagon rusted away to almost nothing.

I don't have enough for a whole wagon, some was just too far gone. I do know I have the HVAC dash unit, the dash itself (cracked so in the pile I had planned to take to the dump), the plastic interior panels, I believe also have the door panels, and the transmission shouldn't be hard to move.

I tried and got no bites. If someone took this stuff and sold it, I wouldn't care, it was theirs to do what they wanted. At least it not be going to waste, used to keep another W123 on the road. I have been blessed and know it will continue.

Interesting, I be curious seeing that come together.

Good plan gathering parts, like a savings plan rather than an instant purchase. That reads like quite a project to do all that cutting and fabrication. Some of the wagen will have to be saved, the load floor for example. My Squareback is waiting until I can do her right, starting with finding a good frame shop, she got hit by a LA driver who had total disregard for traffic laws, including staying at the accident site.

Not really related, but wanted to "chime in". The first car I bought with my own money, and the genesis of my interest in German cars, was a 1971 beige VW Squareback, manual, with Bosch Electronic F.I.(in 1971!!!) Was in my late teens, purchased from original owner (husband and wife, native German, his wife drove Audi's) for $100. I can't recall the mileage, but it wasn't that high.
That car was amazing! Drove it EVERYWHERE! Sadly, being of "rustbelt" origin, the unibody was rusting away behind the front wheels, in the upper fender area, fenders, too. Also the front bumper mounts turned to dust eventually. Not before I got a bunch of years out of it, though.
I was a dumb kid and didn't know how to "save" her and had no money. Bought 2 front fenders from VW (imported from Germany at that time) and had a guy weld some plate for the front bumper. I was outraged at the price of the fenders (about $100 ea), but that translates to about $650 ea, in todays dollars!!
Good memories, good times in that car!! I guess many would agree: If I only knew then what I know now. (or, maybe just 1% of it...lol)

oma and opa?
are you korean?

Thanks and appreciation for sharing this, these kind of stories encourages me to keep my Squareback despite the grief I get from family. :)

The Type 3 was the nicest offering by Volkswagen, especially when in August 1967 launched the 1968 with Bosch D-Jetronic FI, the first mass produced vehicle to have FI. It still had the body on frame of the Type 1, the long block was the same, however, far more cabin and luggage space, plus the front suspension was fully independent.

My Squareback is a 1971 Sunroof, Marina Blau, and still has her FI. The first owner was a German who did a tourist delivery and had a one year work contract at Bell Laboratories, first in Maryland and then San Diego. My Dad's University friend Sue had her 38 years until I bought the Squareback. Being it lived on the coast and has a sunroof, it will need the lower portion of the front pillar replaced plus both rockers (I have the sheet metal). So, I understand they do easily rust, especially exposed to salt like ours were.

And that was a lot of money for fenders, obviously there was at least an appreciation for her. I gladly pay that to get the Beetle a set of NOS German fenders, super hard finding used and most are beat to snot. Maybe even a set of front fenders for the Squareback, both have the infamous rust at the top back corners (replacements so better than what was there).

Glad you enjoyed my ramblings....I enjoyed sharing them.
I loved that car! So much so, I bought a Fastback to go along with her. That was an automatic and it just didn't have the same "mojo" as my Beige Squareback with the manual trans. IIRC the mileage was a lot higher, had been driven harder (I think) and a lot of parts replaced. Didn't like it at all. The tranny felt like mush, car didn't wanna move and it handled like crap compared the the Squareback. Dunno if that was common or it was just worn out?
I totally relate to the subject of this thread. Save WAY TOO MUCH "stuff".....despite the grief I get from family...LOL It's just human nature, for us, anyway.
Peace

Far from it, I am a mutt consisting of Dutch, English, possibly Friesian, German, Irish, Norman, very strong possibility of Pomeranian, Prussian, Scottish, Swiss, and Welsh. My Paternal side is mostly Germanic and Dad chose for his parents to be called Oma and Opa, which is the familiar form of Grandmother and Grandfather (my Maternal side is the UK portion).

My first Type 3 was a beige 1968 Fastback, totally beat to snot and rusted out, so inexperienced, too in a hurry, and too in love got bit hard. I ended up selling it for a fraction of what I paid, plus some used parts, more importantly, got me a friend and into the community where I could do far better with the second.

I never have driven an automatic, I would expect some loss in performance as the automatic does consume engine power to operate the pumps and valves. I bet some of it was being worn, 64 horsepower is not a lot especially if the FI and engine tune is not in top shape. Plus, worn suspension can have a huge impact on the feel of the handling, worn out it is just terrible, even dangerous, however, once everything is new, wow, what a feeling (and was just a short distance as the replacement front beam wouldn't bolt up as turned out the frame was bent).

Even if human nature, do we have to go along with it? Or can we see when it is causing us harm and need to make changes?

Topic Drift / Slide : Old VW's
 

O.K., you guys asked for it by talking not just about old Beetles but Typ III's too .

I'm one of those who loved the various Typ III's, carburetted as well as the D-Jet equipped ones .

I've owned too many to remember them all but my very favorite as my all original and rust free 1971 Fastback .

It has sun roof, AM/FM/SW radio and the automatic ~ being a VW Mechanic I knew how to tune it so it flew as VW intended .

One of my buddies said "typ III's with automatics are slugs" so I took him for a spirited ride down the Mulholland Highway, bias ply tires and all, he was scared witless .

I foolishly sold that car and regret it ever since .

That's fine by me so long as the moderator(s) don't mind. :P Maybe keep this towards the top and someone local will offer to come get the '79 parts.

I don't dislike the early Type 3s, just uncommon and now mostly owned by wealthy and pretentious people who think because they paid thousands to have it imported and have a massive stash of NOS parts (which will only sell at top dollar) that they have something only they have. I do have a soft spot for Type 3 Ghias, however, good luck affording one.

That 1971 Fastback certainly was special, hindsight is 20-20. I bet that was fun teaching him, especially as Type 3s are really fun to drive spirited. I miss driving those Southern California mountain drives, out here nothing close and doesn't seem to be all that many.

Air Cooled VW's
 

Even the early Beetles were quick (very different than fast) in their day, in 1954 VW introduced the 1192C.C. 36HP engine and it immediately began winning races in it's class around the world .

Read up on the Carrera Panamericana race in Mexico ~ the VW Dealer in Mexico City ran a bunch of them, they'd race pretty much bumper to bumper to slipstream...

Amazingly, I young man I know bought an original unmolested Formula Vee with the 40HP engine , 6 volts and all, never did a thing with it and abandoned it what he sold his hobby shop....

He knew I'd have loved it but he's never needed to work a day in his life so he doesn't care about others .

Oh, well .

The early typ III's had huge front drum brakes that worked very well indeed ~ the shoes would up being used on the back of Super Beetles in 1971 .

Pretty good engineering there .

The crappy elitist attitude is the same in any "collector" vehicle ~ in the 1960's I remember old guys acting like the stuff didn't stink because they had a 1928 'T' Model Ford...

Now it's kids with 23 window Typ II's ~ they have NO IDEA what they're talking about, I've crossed America in a stock 1963 # 241 DeLuxe graymarket Typ II with every possible option, towing an old Beetle behind it, using a stock single port 1500CC 60 HP engine, no sweat .

To - day's kiddies think it needs to be fully chromed out, slammed and a long trip is 50 miles .

Sigh .

I've still not looked at your build thread, I saved the link (I hope!) and will in due time .

If the moderator doesn't like this topic drift you can move it or begin anew in the off topic forum .

You can post photos and images there, I'm restricted and no one will tell me why .

I began a build thread in December 2020 about the 2001 Ford Ranger trucklet I bought 12.13 (! Friday) but since I can't post pictures no one has any interest .

I've been tinkering on it all year, it's very nice now .

I hope you begin a VW thread over there .

Dad drove the Beetle spirited in his youth, loved the long first gear as could beat the traffic until second, even one point in the San Diego - Imperial County desert, following a tour bus down a long grade, hit 90MPH! :eek: Then down the road, the engine needed a rebuild (he couldn't tell me why, just that it did), and for some reason he switched to the sedate driver. Once warmed up, on a empty road that goes through the reservation, I would like to see how spirited she is, bet pretty quick considering everything.


I did, appreciate letting me know about the race. :D Interesting had to maintain at least 80KPH, what a creative solution slipstreaming, wonder if changed the lead vehicle. I don't know with today's traffic if I could do a long road trip doing 90KPH the whole way, I much prefer 100KPH (and the speed I drove the Squareback).


What a shame. Hopefully it survived and now being enjoyed.


Nothing wrong with front drum brakes especially in dry conditions. Even some early Type 3 rear brakes were larger than the late model brakes, when I was young and thought I knew what I was doing, tried this, thankfully I was informed before did something stupid.


Yes, that is true, I was just saying I have no interest because of these folks.

As for a cross country trip, I think the current drivers are so self absorbed and inconsiderate, it be too risky to drive Ruby cross country. Dad and I, before they paved the rest of the highway, were going to go to the North side of Alaska, been so long I forgot the name of the road and destination, now it don't seem so special, especially now that he is gone.


I sent you an email, thought of putting the link in again, you want me to sent the link over?


How would I move it?


I had not considered their be any interest on a Mercedes forum, interesting.


I spent 35 minutes going through all your threads and it isn't showing up, you happen to know why?


Over where?

Off Topic Discussions
 

HERE : Off-Topic Discussion - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

If you look in the drop down radio box it's the next to last forum .

Avoid religion and politics at all costs, that's the last forum and is worthless .

To move a thread, the simplest way is to create a new thread on that other forum and then keeping two tabs open, copy and past ONLY your comments and go from there .

I mis spoke ~ the Rear brakes from the pre 1966 Typ III were what wound up on the front of the Super Beetle in 1971 .

Anyways, you're well advised to be careful about long distance travel in any oldie now, I'm a Motocyclist so I understand better than most the risks and I take them ~ by 2001 Ford Ranger is made if tin foil, I'll die if I get hit in it, almost the same as on my Moto, oh well .

Old VW's were specifically made to be run wide open, pedal to the metal in fourth gear as long as you wanted ~ the owner's manual said "top speed is cruising speed" and if you took care of it it'd last about 150,000 miles on the original engines .

That all came to a screeching halt in 1966 with the almost all new 1300CC engine that made 50HP .

In the 1100 & 1200 days (? dayze ? :rolleyes:) as long as you didn't over rev. the engine going up through the gears they were close to bullet proof .

I need to get my battered 1959 #113 DeLuxe going again, I could drop off dead any moment and I sure like driving old Beetles when they're stock .

Ah, okay I was understanding correctly to start a thread on Ruby in the off topic section.

As for discussing religion and politics, I prefer not to even with my friends, especially as I don't fit anyone's molds. :P


Interesting. I forgot Type 1s didn't get disk brakes until way late, even after Type 2s IIRC.


I drove as if I was invisible (ex. driving with the headlights on when the sun is low) and still my wonderful W123 wagen was totaled. Because of my medical conditions and that I can't walk the distance to the bus stop, I can schedule the local transporter bus/van to take me anywhere in the county for $4 cash each way, just has to be 24 hours in advance. However, it picks up other people and can take several hours, though I been blessed and not had this happen. Or, I can get a special fare on a taxi, first eight miles is a flat rate (I forget now, haven't been out in ages). So, there been really no reason for me to drive, however, I now would like to have local freedom. Therefore, once the MVD is back to doing inspections and Ruby is ready, will get the title transferred and get her Arizona registration. Then, she will be for local trips and use the bus/van service for the long trips, saving her the risk.


Just because one can means they should. ;):P What Dad would say is that there are about now 250,000 miles and almost new compression.


So the 1300cc plus engines can't be run flat out? Mind me asking what changed?


How does one know if they are over revving the engine?


What is keeping this from happening?

Just visiting
 

Mom lives in sun city west. I may be taking a trip to visit after the holidays. I’d be interested in helping out where I can so I will PM you when I do.

We are such a bunch of pack rats(Americans). The country of “...just a little more than my fir share.” and a commensurate amount of storage.

I’m feeling a bit ashamed because I basically disassembled an entire car and shuttled it home to a now very cluttered garage where my son and I were going to build a small boat together. Argh! I’m not looking to make a buck off it just build a reasonable inventory and give away the rest.

Nate hit it on the head. It all ends up owning us and cluttering our lives. Giving it away makes it someone else’s problem unless they use it but somethings are worth it. These cars only have value to those who’ve fell in love with them and or have great memories associated with them. We recognize them for their fine engineering, performance, and serviceability but we like our cars are a dying breed within an era. I’ve tried to instill simple values in my kids. My younger son adores my 240D which we call Sadie. In time that may change but the memories and the values passed on will serve him well and who knows, maybe Sadie will remain a part of his life too.
I think the best thing we can do for any legacy is to pass it forward and help those who’ll listen, about why it has value and what that means to you personally. That’s exactly what I see happening here and on many other owners/enthusiast forums. All our stuff will eventually be dust in the wind. It takes hard work, perseverance, and patience to maintain these cars. My kids may never share my interest in the w123 or OM616 but they’ll know what’s important to keep your dreams rolling.

Wow that’s corny! But still..,

Bill, Sun City is about a solid hour drive from here, so that would be a very generous gift which I already appreciate, thank you. :D


Well, you may think it is corny, however, it is a huge help as to me confirms I need to quit getting hung up on saving stuff for someone that may not even exist. Once I can get out there, get pictures and a list, and see if anyone takes it, say give two weeks and then gone?

I sure hope Sadie gets to stay in the family, time will tell. What age range is he, a young lad?

VW Chat
 

Interesting. I forgot Type 1s didn't get disk brakes until way late, even after Type 2s IIRC.


The USA never got disc brakes on Beetles, only the Karmann Ghia did ~ it is a very simple thing to swap the ball joint front suspension complete from a 'Ghia to any post 1966 (ball joint) Beetle ~ you don't even need to change the brake master cylinder nor add a proportioning valve .



I drove as if I was invisible (ex. driving with the headlights on when the sun is low) and still my wonderful W123 wagen was totaled. Because of my medical conditions and that I can't walk the distance to the bus stop, I can schedule the local transporter bus/van to take me anywhere in the county for $4 cash each way, just has to be 24 hours in advance. However, it picks up other people and can take several hours, though I been blessed and not had this happen. Or, I can get a special fare on a taxi, first eight miles is a flat rate (I forget now, haven't been out in ages). So, there been really no reason for me to drive, however, I now would like to have local freedom. Therefore, once the MVD is back to doing inspections and Ruby is ready, will get the title transferred and get her Arizona registration. Then, she will be for local trips and use the bus/van service for the long trips, saving her the risk.

Mobility is important to your mental as well as physical health . plus, just being out and about is interesting ~ when I'm on vacations I sometimes take the local bus just to see what's what if I don't have my own transport .


Just because one can means they should. ;):P What Dad would say is that there are about now 250,000 miles and almost new compression.

O.K., the three things necessary to keeping it running are : hot oil changes and removing and cleaning the screen in the sump, this is critical and surely will not be done unless you're hovering around the shop .

VW's have no oil filter, just a metal wire mesh screen that collects ash, sludge and some wear particles ~ over time it packs up and hinders the flow of oil causing hot running ( = DEATH) and eventually starved bearings that will then fail .

The second thing is : valves checked and adjusted every 3,000 miles or six months - if they're not noisy they're way too tight and ready to fail . I think you told me this particular 40 horse still has the original long stud cylinder heads, that's very hard to believe as most failed, pulling the studs out before 80,000 miles ~ if the rockers are held on by bolts Vs. 13 MM ATF nuts on studs, they've been repaired/upgraded . rockers held on by ( 14 MM ATF IIRC) bolts require larger valve lash gaps, I no longer remember what as the last one I ever saw was in 1973 . most 40 horse engines require .006" clearance, better a little bit loose than snug .

Remember " a noisy valve is a happy valve " .

The third thing is the ignition timing, again, this is critical on several levels . setting it depends on the number of notches in your crank pulley .

Never to exceed 29 degrees BTDC @ 3,000 RPM with the vacuum line connected .


So the 1300cc plus engines can't be run flat out? Mind me asking what changed?

When the 'big block' engines were introduced they made scores of little detail changes, all raised the amount of horsepower and torque far beyond the original design parameters ~ air cooled engines are delicate so originally VW used a single carby and very narrow intake manifold and valve diameters to essentially choke the engine's ability to breathe and create power . simply adding dual carbies to any stock VW engine no matter how old almost doubles the amount of available power and drastically reduces engine life although they're fun to drive and get better fuel economy .


How does one know if they are over revving the engine?

I don't know how to explain this, if you up shift anywhere near the little red roman numeral maximum shift points on the speedometer, you're over revving it .

I don't mind answering questions, if I don't know I won't dissemble .

What is keeping this from happening?[/QUOTE]

Keeping what from happening ?

Bill makes some good points .

I strongly disagree with this “...just a little more than my fir share.” rather, Americans have the ability to work hard and gather things, some collect art, others old motor vehicles and there's not a thing wrong with it .

America is a consumer driven society and so discards a lot of things that are perfectly good, I see no harm in holding on to useful things or in re purposing them .

Of course, I was a farm boy so I was accustomed to have no money and making do , not unlike the children of the great depression .

Well then, certainly shows I am a Type 3 person, only reason I have a Beetle is because it is Dad's and we grew up with her. It's almost like learning a whole new vehicle.


I had not considered that, myself feel prefer the hermit life especially after no one wants an Autistic volunteer. There are a few thrift stores I was wanting to go to and then COVID hit (especially after I have bulked up over about the last year and a half for some reason).


I grew up sitting by Dad while he did the maintenance on Ruby, as he was so busy there was very little time to spend with him. I learned keeping the engine in proper tune, 3,000 mile oil changes, and regular valve adjustments were a must. I don't know what you mean hovering around a shop, I have been twice stupid thinking they knew better than me, then got ripped off (first time I didn't know about the California law that they can't exceed $100 over the estimate and so paid almost $600 for no work). I do all my work, as I know what I did and I am satisfied with it. By the way, this is why I sold my modern vehicle at a loss and bought the wagen, so I could do all the work myself, I am done with ever owning another modem vehicle.


At some point I will be adding a oil pump oil filter setup, by the way. For now, I do as I have always done and thoroughly clean the screen.


I don't ever remember saying that, especially as I did not know there are any differences until the length changed in 1965 or 1966 with the change in heads. All I can remember is the heads are held on with nuts, I can get a picture if so needed.


I had a nice basic timing light I got used ages ago, always been in the same box, however, went to go get it and not there. So I left it static timed and once legally back on the road and have the bread, get an upgraded timing light with readout.


Seems Dad was right about increased power reducing engine service life. Myself have no interest messing with the wonderful simplicity, ruggedness, and reliability of the 1200cc engine, except one day when does get a rebuild to be sure has camshaft bearings and maybe the upgraded heads.


I forgot about those, appreciate the reminder. Good to know those are limit marks rather than instructions.


Okay.


What is preventing progress on your 1959 113? What needs doing before back on the road?


I agree most of America is consumerism and wastes a lot of resources, however, there also seems to be an over attachment to things, look at the multi billion dollar storage unit industry for example.

After having to clear out mounds of stuff Oma, Dad, and I collected at the San Diego house plus then clearing out my own home, I am of the opinion that one can collect too much stuff. I was raised by my Grandparents who grew up rural and during the Depression, so I too save things which still have use, however, now I am organizing them and limiting their amount. The stuff outside is preventing me from having space to have the table saw set up and get after some woodworking projects.

Adriel,
My youngest is 9. I offered her to my eldest first. He just turned 16. “I’ll think about it Dad.” �� Kids...

And the table saw... HEHE! Yeah I’ve been trying to dig that out all summer, fall, and now into winter. I should have been a junket I suppose. I’m not a hoarder per se but everyone I need to fabricate something I have the material or parts on hand. It just takes most of the day to find it.

Now... did I need four doors, a hood, and a boot lid today? No I did not but my doors all have rot in the bottom and both lids are rusted. The stuff I brought home is spotless inside and out like it had been garaged mist of its life. I stripped everything that wasn’t welded on topside, exhaust, all the glass, and Fuel lines. I really would like the differential but ran out of time. One things for certain, I’m set for fasteners.

Going by what I remember, the nine year old is too young to be set on a decision regarding Sadie, however, the oldest seems to have made her mind up. Man, I would have totally lost it if Dad had even offered to let me drive Ruby around the block, just sitting in the driver seat when 13 years old was huge, never let anyone sit in that seat. I guess if only mildly interested, maybe for the better since might not get treated as well as Sadie should be treated.


Have you seen Adam Savage's YouTube channel? We all agree we are not hoarders, rather collectors of useful bits. Lately, he has been doing more shop organization and building things to help with this. https://www.youtube.com/c/tested/videos

The house has a back patio, say about fifteen by twenty eight feet, I got most of it cleared off so could put the two fire proof file cabinets, steel bookcase, and the table saw out there. On the other side there is a work bench, a two drawer dresser, and a nice large patio table that needs stuff cleared off. I know what most of it is, I just didn't know what to do with it. Like the shelf of the workbench has all those plastic interior panels from the 1979 wagen. My hope is to have it so plenty of room to safely use the rest for woodworking when cool enough to do so, no room for a conditioned shop.


I totally get this, though I was worse as bought the 1979 to flip, either getting running or parting out. I didn't need any of the parts, so I would say you are ahead. If I was in your place, I at least swap the doors and lids to get more shop space.

I'm working to finish my projects 1) so I can enjoy them. I'm cheap and get good deals on things that need to be fixed then can't get around to fixing them. I gave myself a 2 yr deadline and extended it 1 year because I'm making progress. I'm also thankful that health and usually cash are not a problem. That said, I don't want to extend another year and have to hurry because selling would be painful but so are unfinished projects.

and 2) because I don't want my wife to have to deal with them. She has already promised to call 1 800 junk be gone. To even the threat, I told her that I'm hiding lots of cash in my junk and she has to go through it carefully or she will lose a fortune :)

Have you ever watched American Pickers? They have the coolest job in the world but they flip everything they sell. The things they come across in a dead mans barn is both amazing and sad but they do a pretty good job underling the importance and personal significance to collecting. They just don’t get attached.

Unfortunately I don’t have the time to swap them out s I will likely give them away or sell dirt cheap.

Great advice to set a reasonable deadline, in that if progress is being made, can be extended. I will have to try this, I loathe deadlines, however, now see a great benefit and can be adjusted.

Too funny about saying the stuff needs to be gone though to find money.

By the way, sent a reply to your email.

I have an antenna only when home, however, when in hospital, I watch it, I love the show in part because of the interesting stories, stuff, and history. It is also been a huge encouragement not to collect as we can see how quickly it gets out of hand and becomes detrimental, especially those who later have to deal with it.

Hmmm, bummer your that busy, that's a drag after all that work saving them unable to utilize them on Sadie. Seems we both have time and space at a limit.

1959 VW DeLuxe # 113
 

I guess I'm just lazy....

I already up fixed everything mechanical and electrical when first I bought the car, this included a full brake job ($!) and all the little detail things except the dead 6 volt radio .

I'm sure I have a working Bendix Sapphire I 6 volt radio in my stash bit this one it has is one of the myriad off brand cheapo radios so popular then, I'd like to see if I can coax it back to life as I've never seen one quite like it before, always neat to have something entirely different, right ? .

Sadly, after having spent serious time assembling un damaged engine tins, then cleaning them and sand blasting & re painting them (BTW : yes, VW engine tin is supposed to be glossy black, not satin/matte finish) including repairing the dead "stale air" heater boxes,I installed the $1,600.00 'rebuilt' 36HP engine I bought on 'The SAMBA' and it had piston slap and a faint rod knock when first started and it failed catastrophically in the Panamint Valley in less than 200 miles .

The transmission is slightly newer (AB series full synchromesh) so I knew that once removed it'd be a simple thing to replace the front cover with one that included a reverse light switch, in time I found this part in a junkyard (1968 Typ III Squareback) and brought it home, now I'm afraid if I pull the engine and tranny it'll never hit the road again and I'm loathe to simply yank the engine and swap all the tin and so on to the re built 36HP engine I have shrink wrapped and waiting for four years now and never get the correct vintage HELLA backup lamps I hunted up working...

That's my sad and pathetic story, no excuses .

You're Autistic so I imagine you understand this .

BTW : I love thrift . junk shops and have to avoid them as I always find the most incredible things for cheap...

What if part of it is the social aspect, as right now unable to share with others your progress?

I had a thought, since I can post pictures, what about sending a few to me now and then to post onto your build thread?


That I know was a lot of work, similar to what I have gotten done, and yes, I know how expensive replacing brakes are, especially when you snap the brand new main brake line (which turned out to be a benefit as did a much better job the second time).


I agree, there is something interesting and fun about variety, hopefully something simple is all that needs to get it working again.

How advanced are you at radio diagnostics and repairs?


What a bummer! :eek: Anything useable after the catastrophic failure?


I forget when the reverse light on the transmission became available, I'm thinking 1967. I know certainly the 1964 doesn't have an option, it be nice to have, maybe one day buy one of those which mounts to the speedometer. However, I don't myself see it as a must, not like anyone is paying attention to even if there is a reverse light on, right?


I wouldn't say pathetic, life can be really cruel. Look how I got started on the Squareback all those ages ago and never went back.


More for me is knowing what is priority and to get done what is. This can change, Ruby was priority over the Squareback as better candidate for a reliable and safe driver, however, now my priority is simply to get well.


Interesting, maybe part of the collecting mindset? I don't know of any junk shops, however, are a few antique and thrift shops I like to just walk around in. The only time I walked out with something from an antique shop was last Fall, bio "mother" bought me a high quality Mid Century Modern coffee table, which was in an uncommon square, the only shape that work, for an amazing price. After I outgrew and wore out my clothes, I go to thrift shops looking for quality clothes at a good price, I have had great success to where I had to stop going.

@Adriel, the deadline for fixed or sold seemed like it would fix the problem. Jury is still out. Trying to decide between working on cars or building a shop. Shop postpones working but I've always wanted a lift and could theoretically move back to the country (likely by myself) and work better with a shop.It will be really hard to sell some stuff but that may be best. September is the deadline but only the boat costs money just sitting in the slip. Everything else sits and possibly rusts but doesn't eat dollars.

I'm considering hiring a contractor to replace the tin but am already leery because contractors generally want to slap it and go. This house isn't built normal and I want the damned thing fixed the way I want it.

There are 3 distinct completely independent roof sections and the contractor's approach is to strip all of the existing tin, then remove the old slats, then install all of the plywood, then the paper, then the new tin. This leaves the house exposed to the weather unnecessarily.

My approach would be to complete an entire section then move to the next. Having a contractor would help speed things along and there is one section that I'm not willing to climb onto. The decision will probably be determined by labor price and my gut feeling after talking more. I'll definitely have to be there during the process.

I guess I'll join in on the collecting aspect of the discussion. Over the years I've gravitated toward minimalism. I don't like having a lot of clutter and stuff that isn't used. But, I think my roommate is the opposite; he likes to collect and have multiple versions of things.

I'd be happy with having only one car, but the one car I want to keep isn't remotely close to being roadworthy. The fintail wagon I have is beyond saving, so I have to cut off the wagon-specific sheet metal and weld it onto the non-rusty fintail sedan I have.

Otherwise, I'd sell my 300SD daily driver. In fact, I'd sell it now if I could get decent money for it, but I don't think anyone would be willing to pay what it's worth to me as a reliable driver which has had almost everything mechanical gone through.

And, it would be nice if I could sell it because then I could get rid of all the spare W116 parts I have and then only have spares for the W110/W111 chassis and I could focus all of my time and finances on one car. Having spares is important, too.

But, I've been known to accept free parts when given to me, and will still buy parts at wrecking yards if there is money to be made. I haven't had a job in years and my sleeping disorder and current living arrangement make it impossible for me to have a job. And since I don't get disability, either, any expendable income I get comes from things I sell.

But in summary, I really dislike clutter and am definitely not a collector. I just want to have one nice car that is reliable and I can be proud of, and just things that I use regularly. I do like shopping at thrift stores and swap meets, but that's because I like vintage items and don't like having more than I need.

When I was a kid, I had hundreds of vintage bicycles, and lament wasting my youth messing around with bicycles and cars when I should have been focusing on art and music and making a career out of them before I became an adult and ended up starving, nearly homeless, and not able to keep a job. I thought I was just lazy, but found out later that I have idiopathic hypersomnia (since birth) and generally have trouble interacting with human beings.

Okay, well first things first, got to get my energy and mental clarity back, thankfully OT agreed to coming twice a week starting Monday next week. I am hoping by mid January to be able to get outside and get the fan belt replaced on Ruby.


I would defiantly say shop because then make it far more easier, quicker, and comfortable to work on vehicles and projects. Plus, a fresh beginning and can evaluate what will be saved and go into the new space.

By the way, I almost got a Master's in Architecture (long story involving some health setbacks) so have design knowledge and know how to use SketchUp and AutoCAD (also ArchiCAD which is better, however, unnecessary complexity for a shop).


I totally understand this, especially as I have seen it first hand. I do have a feeling there has to be one great contractor in your area, the trick is finding this person.


On the house I grew up in, they left the skip sheathing and put the OSB over it. Of course adds extra thickness, however, maybe save time and cost not removing it.


Wonder if a contractor be willing to work with you, I certainly agree one has to at least be watching when doing the flashing. Do wonder if explained your concern if be willing to do the roofing in sections, if not, guess you would have to do the work yourself. Of course, not doing what you don't feel comfortable doing, no sense getting into trouble.

Wow, time sure has gone by quickly, seems not all that long ago we learned of your condition. I am surprised you didn't qualify for disability. Glad you have figured out how to still have a means of income to cover expenses.

It seems we are headed in a similar direction. I used to be a big collector, now trying to minimize, maybe not to only a few positions, though at least keep only those which bring great joy and can be enjoyed because there is room for them to be seen (or at least know where they are). Same with vehicles, I adore the 280TE, however, now that I inherited the Beetle, that means two drivers. I'm thinking get the Beetle reliable, registered, finish the 280TE, register for a year to enjoy and say goodbye, then sell it.

I agree, and bet a lot of folks who look back, regret their time spent as youth. Hindsight is 20-20. Now we need to accept our mistakes, learn from them, and use the experience to move forward. For example, working on those bicycles taught how to work with your hands.

I do think that the social aspect of mechanical works is strong ~ back when I was a working Journeyman mechanic I'd bang out more jobs than anyone else in the shop and no comebacks either .

Brake works are more effort than expen$ive these days, I look up the part numbers and inter changes then I can hunt up the correct parts for serious discounts ~ I was a parts man off and on for many years .

I know bupkis about radio repairs but 1950's technology is pretty basic if not crude, most of the time you need to replace all the capacitors and the speaker, I always match the correct impedance and these days there are better quality speakers available, the trick is finding the correct size and mounting then you're pretty much golden .

I just did this in my truck and am loving listening to music clear as a bell =8-) .

I can often take the volume potentiometer apart, clean it and make it work as new again, I can clean the breaker points in vibrators but prefer to replace them with modern solid state ones .

A lot of fixing older things is simply taking them apart, cleaning and making very simple repairs then re assemble, lubricate and adjust and you're good to go .

Radios not so much because one you've replaced much there's a whole deal of adjusting that I don't really understand very well .

Variety is good, as they say : just don't let your paramour find out :rolleyes: .

The 36HP engine case is kaput as a connecting rod came through it but I'm sure the heads are O.K., I already have too many old 36HP engines, I should try to sell them I think .

An old friend from back when I had the VW shop and he was in high school recently gave me a bunch of 36HP parts including an complete 1954 (I think) engine, I selected a really nice flywheel and used it on the rebuilt engine I need to install .

Yeah, life is a bee-otch, if I told my entire pathetic life story you'd use up boxes of Kleenex (or, not :rolleyes:) but I choose to look forward, life is to be enjoyed, not tolerated or suffered .

I'm very, VERY lucky to be alive so I don't want to waste a minute feeling sorry for my self, I have things to do while I'm still ambulatory ;) .


Reverse lamps were a factory / dealer VW accessory from the early 1950's, yes they became standard in the 1967 model year (thanx U.S. government) I do like them and use them....

I suppose I could hunt up one of those old early typ III speedo cable activated reverse light switches, I just prefer to do things a particular way is all .

There are certainly junk shops near you ! they're everywhere, maybe the sign says 'antiques' but the stuff inside is what's critical and I find lots of really good tools and things when an 'antique' store doesn't know what the hell it is...

My psycho-beech ex girlfriend was a black belt thrift store shopper , she'd always find new and near new clothes in her size, I have no idea how she managed but we'd hit up thrift stores every time we traveled .

Of course, she was also crazier than the proverbial shytehouse rat and violet to boot so eventually I had to give her the gate in spite and hands down the best sex I've ever experienced .

I saw her in traffic in South Central Los Angeles a few weeks ago, still cute as a button, not a lot or 60 year old women can do that .

Sigh .

Anyway, life goes on apace, that's the way it should be, just learn to not have so many things they own you instead of the other way 'round :cool:

-Nate

I love it! You have a pure style of communication Nate. It speaks volumes.
It’s almost a natural law: Bombshells are bat**** crazy. What’s that all about?!

Glad then I made the choice I did and will stick with it.


With the Squareback, yes, knew the part number logic and go hunt up parts, however, sometimes spend so much time hunting down deals, was money really saved?


Seems to me you know more than I do! :P I look at all those capacitors, resistors, transformers, and such and find it intimidating. However, I don't find FI intimidating.


See I don't even know what or where these vibrators are, certainly don't know how to convert to solid state. Does this change affect the sound?


Yes, unless something crumbles from age. :P I do enjoy this, just didn't think of electronics in the same way, good point.


What needs to be adjusted on a radio?


Or maybe the variety needs to be with the two of you. :P


What a bummer! Just think if someone had not gotten greedy, there be one more 36HP case available.

As to the other 36HP engines and parts, why have these if the 113 is the last project?


Exactly!


Seems then the answer is to pull the whole driveline, as anything else be doing it half measure. I wish I was back in Sandy Eggo, I come up and lend a hand.


I was being literal... :o I didn't think to look for tools at antique and thrift shops, be an opportunity to get out of the house, once the pandemic is over.


Times like this I am glad I pursued academics over women. :P Though now for some reason the older I get the more I want to settle down and have a great partner, a life long companion.


If life doesn't go on, there is a problem... As to things owning me, that's why I had questioned saving things for someone that may never exist. ;)

Communicating
 

Thanx Bill ;

Many don't seem to appreciate my way of mangling the English language .

I think the bombshells are crazy because they can be.....

I know my Sweet is sassy and always has been, she's now well past her prime yet would cause a riot if I ever took her to the Senior Center....

I'm very lucky she allows me to share her life, good looks and hot sex is fun when you're young but eventually I wanted someone I could talk to as well .

BTW : I've dated red heads too and every one was put there in some way or another .

(does 'speaks volumes' mean I talk too much ? :rolleyes: )

Computer Weirdness
 

12.22.20, the system says this message is "too short" (?!) so I'm trying a different way to post...

Whew ~ Old Man Rambling On
 

In a nut shell, German vehicles more so than any other ones I've touched can be taken apart and cleaned, adjusted and repaired further than you can get the necessary parts for so unless a thing is fried or bashed you can usually take it apart and fix it by simply (!) 'peaking and tweaking' it .

This is what I do to almost every vehicle I own ~ I find them cheap, usually not running or neglected and return them to proper service then maybe up grade a bit here and there, usually by using other factory parts~ I wish I was allowed to post attachments, my little 2001 Ford Ranger is coming along very nicely .

I'm doing cosmetics now and my Sweet took her first ride in it on a few weeks and loves the simple comfort things I did for her and it looks better too .

I am glad you two are so happy together.

Maybe I am getting older, as I rather have someone to talk to more than sex... :P


I can hear what you are saying. :P My Sister and I are both redheads, by the way. It took me a long time to accept I have a bit of an edge to me and learn to put the energy into doing good.