The nuts for both back up plates on the VW’s outside frame plates have now been welded on and the frame is ready to be reassembled. The dual frame plates are needed to contain the power of the Toyota 3SGTE motor.
The VW Bug’s outside frame plate is also through-bolted to the main frame rails. This will require another backup plate to be inserted into the frame tubes themselves. I am welding grade 8 nuts to the backer plates.
The secondary VW Bug plate frame is thicker than the primary plate, this makes it a bit harder to cut with the plasma cutter. I will use my hand grinder to clean up the edges. My camera messed up during filming so I did not get it all.
After cutting out the secondary VW Bug plate frame members with the plasma cutter, I have clamped them in place to check for fitment.
After creating the VW bug foam template for the secondary plate frame unit, I then traced the pattern on to a piece or masonite board. I again applied foil tape to the edges to protect the board from the plasma cutter.
With the initial VW Bug plate frames in place, I am now creating the secondary frame member to increase the strength of the 3SGTE’s rear engine cradle.
After cleaning up the Toyota 3SGTE motor mount hole, I also cut down the top edge and made if fit better. The VW Bug restoration will continue with the creation of the outside frame members.
This is the initial alignment of the Toyota 3SGTE Motor. As you can see it sits in a wooden frame that wraps around the entire rear end. The engine should sit completely within the body lines of the VW Bug’s body shell.
I have removed the VW Bugs passenger side frame plate to clean up and enlarge the 3SGTE motor mount hole. I marked the plate when it was on to get a more accurate cut.
After cutting out the VW Bug 3SGTE motor mount hole, it is now time to refit the passenger side frame plate to see how it lines up. As you can see I cut it small to insure I can make it fit without over cutting. I will cut and clean the opening more later.