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.
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.
The VW Bug main frame members which go on either side of the Toyota 3SGTE motor have been bent and fit to the main frame as well as the rear cross-member. They fit snugly to the top of the rear cross-member.
Once the main frame rails are in place, I can now start building the VW Bug rear engine frame plates. I have constructed templates out of .25 inch foam board to determine their locations.
Creation of the VW Bug frame starts with determination of where and how the frame member will be positioned around the engine. I have very limited space around the Toyota MR2 3SGTE motor. My plan is to create a plate type frame that travels straight through the rear of the vehicle. I started with some small boards glued together to determine the lower profile of the plate so I can trace that profile on to a piece of foam board.
The initial frame plan can start, now that I have the VW Bug’s drive train in place. As you can see I have finished the alignment of the Toyota MR2 3SGTE motor. I have both struts in place as well as the motor mounts and all the accessories (starter and AC unit etc.). Oh and the shop crane has been removed.
The VW Bug rear end assembly continues with the addition of the Toyota MR2 3SGTE driver side rear drive axle and wheel. Some initial alignment has also been completed.
I am installing the Toyota MR2 Clutch Masters stage 1 HD clutch. It should be good for mild 350-400 HP driving.
The MR2 transmission is ready to bolt up to the 2.2 3sgte stroker motor. I am waiting on the flywheel to be returned. The motor is in position to be incorporated into the VW Bug.