Back in February 2024 I was surprisingly gifted a 1970 Volkswagen Beetle for restoration.  This Standard Beetle was formerly the pride and joy of a local Army officer who bought this beetle new and used it for daily transportation to and from the base. Then, when he retired, he restored the car and frequently showed it at local shows.

How Did It Happen?

When the owner passed away, the car went into storage in a machine shed on the family farm. I had a chance to purchase this car in 2023, but rodent infestation into the headliner was a deal killer for me because (as all my VW friends know) all the glass must be removed from a VW beetle (1968 and newer) to replace the headliner. Twelve months later, vandals broke into the machine shed and removed all the windows for me – with a brick! The car suffered severe damage with dents to almost every panel, and both doors ruined.

Here’s the Surprise!

When the price turned to FREE from the original owner’s daughter, I agreed to remove the car from the property. Using its owner’s tow bar (which he used to tow the car to shows), I went straight to a car wash and spent $10 on high-pressure soap, washing out the engine bay, trunk, and interior. The beetle then spent 3 days outside in my driveway to dry out and give any remaining creatures a chance to depart the vehicle.

After then storing it for 3 months in my car trailer, it was time to see if this beetle could be revived. The engine turned freely, but I had no working ignition key to test any of the circuits. I ordered a new switch and key. With some effort I was able to remove the old lock cylinder and install a new one. I then removed the spark plugs, cleaned, and reinstalled them. Filing the ignition points was also accomplished but took some time.

Initial Start Up

Once I added a battery, the engine turned over! So I connected a fuel line from the fuel pump to a gas can and the car started right up! AMAZING!

I ordered a new fuel tank, blew out the fuel line, and took the car for a spin around the subdivision. I repaired the mouse-chewed fuel gauge wire and adjusted the brakes. The car ran nicely and was ready for restoration.

A Cosmetic Restoration

Mechanically the car was almost complete, but cosmetically the car needed almost everything.

My June 2024 totals were:
Total Time: 28:20
Total Parts: $567.66

Not bad for a running driving 1970 VW Beetle!