With one VW bug rear strut mount complete, I must construct the other one. I am using the plasma cutter and a wooden template to cut the top plate out of 3/16″ sheet steel. I will then assemble both rear strut mounts and get ready for spring compression.

In order to get the rear strut link mounting angles correct, I need to create the two rear vw bug strut mounts. I have created one of these mounts and now all I need to do is create another one. I will mount them to the strut tops and then compress the entire assembly to determine the mount angles.

One step closer to strut compression and frame lift. All 4 of the VW bug strut locations have been clearanced to contain the MR2 strut springs. Very close to determining ride height.

After determining the exact position of the front strut tops, I need to clearance them for the springs. I used the same small round foam template I used for the rear springs to draw out where the holes should be and then cut them out with the plasma cutter. I will probably need to cut them a bit more to get a good fit.

I am trying to determine exactly where the top of the MR2 struts will be in the VW bug body. I need to cut out the holes big enough for the springs. I really could not do this until I had a hole big enough for the struts themselves and the struts installed on the steering knuckles. Again the plumb bob will help.

I decided that I should first make sure that all the MR2 struts fit in their locations before any strut compression takes place. I am lining up and starting to cut out the VW bug’s front strut holes. I got their positions by using a plumb bob.

With both of the VW bug strut holes cut out, I will need to compress them to determine spring compression vs. ride height. I will start this process with a stout piece of uni-strut and a couple of strong turn buckles.

I know this is a crappy video. But…After cutting out the posterboard template from the VW bug’s drivers side strut hole, I am transferring it to the passenger side. I will next cut this out and fit both strut springs.

I slowly cut the VW bug sheetmetal out around the MR2’s drivers side rear strut spring. It appears that everything will fit OK. I will use this hole to trace out a template to create the hole for the passenger side strut as well.

I now have the VW bug’s body all the way down against the platfrom once more. I need to clearance the rear inside fender wells to make way for the MR2 struts. I am using the foam board again for the template. This is a tight fit and has been a concern from day one.