[T3] Need front end parts for '68 Notchback

[Jim Adney]

On 7 Aug 2011 at 13:10, Shari Hawkins wrote:

> Need front end parts for '68 Notchback...
> 
> My '68 Notch has its front end torn apart at the Bug Shop, and I don't  
> have the right parts! I need help trying to find (at the very least)  
> an upper right torsion arm and the right size (35mm I.D.) needle  
> bearing. I had intended to replace ball joints also, so I'm leaning  
> towards just getting a complete front axle assembly, if that makes  
> sense. I'm obviously not doing the work myself, so I appreciate any  
> help in locating parts as quickly as possible.

I'm in Madison, just to the west of you.

I checked and I have a RU front arm and a bearing. The bearing is 
good, but the bearing surface on the arm is worn/pitted. It would 
probably work for many miles, but I really don't know.

I also have a front beam that I need to part out. Those parts should 
be in better shape. The beam is in good shape except for the arms 
that used to hold the bump stops; they have rusted away. I could get 
your parts out of it, but I won't be able to get to it for a couple 
weeks.

What's wrong with your arm?

BTW, I seldom see ball joints that need to be replaced, although I 
often check cars where other shops have recommended replacement. 
Unless the boots are torn, they are almost always good. If you find a 
good used arm, it will probably come with a good ball joint. I would 
check it (per the Bentley manual, which is easy with the arm 
disassembled) and reuse it if possible. They are quite difficult to 
replace.

Also, very few VW shops will have any idea how to work on your car. 
They will assume the front end is the same as a beetle or bus and be 
completely stumped. Make sure they know what they're doing before you 
let them go ahead. Installing a replacement bearing actually requires 
some special tools. I've never done this job, but it's covered nicely 
in the Bentley manual. I would have to make the tools, and I'll bet 
they will, too. If they actually read the manual and follow 
instructions you'll be fine, and I'll be surprised.

Good luck


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Jim Adney, jadney at vwtype3.org
Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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