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.
The photo album software is now working as expected. Check out the slide shows on the Photos page. You can see them as a slide show or click on the red text next to each window and see them as individual pictures.
Tim@BackyardBuild.com
Before I can build the secondary VW Bug frame plates I must insure that the 3SGTE passenger side motor mount lines up. I am cutting out the hole in the initial frame plate with my plasma cutter for the mount.