Many use a Volkswagen Beetle as a starting point for building a Dune Buggy. It is a simple, reliable and inexpensive medium. With this model, it is easy to find spare parts and is an ideal project for beginners. Learn how to build one using the frame from an old Beetle.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Starting from scratch
Step 1. Buy a used Beetle
The best model is the first, that of the 70s.
Step 2. Buy replacement parts
You will need a muffler, tires, shock absorbers and springs.
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You can find many spare parts on eBay engines, or on specialized sites such as AppleTreeAuto.com or Chirco.com.
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Step 3. Put the car on jack stands
Make sure the vehicle is stable before crawling under it to work. It is more fun to be inside the car than the other way around.
Step 4. Delete the pieces you don't need
Remove everything but the essentials: chassis, engine, suspension, steering, tires, brakes and seats. Everything else is superfluous and can be removed. You can reuse the disassembled parts as sculptures or you can try to sell them on eBay.
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Remove the fenders, fenders, and trunk lid. Remember that on the Beetle the trunk is in the front and the engine in the back.
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Change the tires, rims, suspension and muffler. If the car is old these parts are probably in poor condition. Remove the wheels, keep the rims (if they are in acceptable condition) and change the tires. Keep the wheel bolts.
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Replace the suspension. Use longer springs to get more ground clearance.
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Saw the muffler with a jigsaw. Cut it about 13 cm above the terminal. Install the new muffler at a 45 degree angle, following the manufacturer's instructions.
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Fit new tires to the rims and refit the wheels using the old bolts. Remove the tripods.
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Step 5. Paint the frame and add other desired components
If you want to modify the engine, many are fitted with that of the Chevrolet Corvair. It is a 6-cylinder engine that develops 80 hp.
Method 2 of 2: Starting with a mounting kit
Step 1. Go to Google
You'll find Dune Buggy assembly kits for every taste, experience level, and budget.
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For example, the Berrien Buggy (www.berrienbuggy.com) has various types of chassis that will allow you to customize your vehicle by choosing from many different parts.
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Another option is a complete, ready-to-assemble kit. On the website www.meyersmanx.com you will find several.
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Step 2. Buy the projects
If you want to start from scratch, but don't want to do all the design work, buy the designs. They cost around € 20-30 (updated to 2012). Then you will have to research all the components, looking for the best prices for each piece.
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You can easily find projects on Amazon.
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Almost all specialized sites also have a forum. Invest some time reading the various discussions. You can glean great information by reading what others like, or don't like, about certain products or companies.
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Advice
- The engine can be tinkered if you don't like the original VW one, which is still great for beginners.
- For best results, remove all unnecessary parts. Leave only the essentials. There will be less confusion and less weight, and your Dune Buggy will be faster.
Warnings
- Old brake calipers contain asbestos dust which must not be breathed in at all. Wear appropriate asbestos masks when working on the brakes, and keep children away from the work area.
- If you are unfamiliar with suspension replacement, let a professional do the job. Springs can be dangerous.
