Before rotating the VW bug frame around to finish the welding, I need to build some plates for extra bracing. I am starting with the rear strut tops. These brackets will connect the rear strut members with the front supports. This will hold the entire strut top assembly together.
I have a few things to do before I can flip the VW bug frame for welding. I need to cap a few frame openings and plan out some bracing angles to stiffin the entire frame.
With the MR2 3SGTE engine and rear end removed from the frame, I can remove the front end gear as well. Everything has now been removed from the VW bug’s frame and it is sitting on jack stands ready for welding. I am happy with the way everything has lined up.
It is now time to remove the VW bug frame from the MR2 3SGTE engine and drivetrain. After unbolting everything I can lift the frame with my shop crane. I left the front end together so I can roll the frame foward and away from the engine. Once clear of the rear end I can remove the front end as well.
I will use whats left of the VW bug’s rear support box to create a engine and tranny stand so I can remove the frame. I need to flip the frame over to be able to finish all the welding so I will have to remove everything.
The VW bug’s MR2 steering rack is now tacked in place. The unit works great and the u-joint on the steering shaft clears the frame fine. I rolls and it steers, what more can you want?
The M2 steering rack is now sporting both brackets. After welding in both nuts I welded the saddle piece in place and created the top strap. I now have the bracket clamped in position and will weld it in after final alignment.
I can now start to create the passenger side steering rack bracket. I am making it out of the 1.5″x1.5″ steel tubing and a small piece of steel for the saddle. I will also weld some nuts to the inside for the top strap.
With the VW bug’s driver side steering rack bracket in place, I can start to figure out the other one. Again alignment is critical to insure proper steering function.
Now that I know where the MR2 steering rack is to be located, I can start to manufacture the mounting brackets. The first bracket will be the positioning bracket, the one to locate and hold the rack in place. This bracket will consist of three parts as shown in the video.