How to Replace Steering Damper on VW Super Beetle : DIY

How to Replace Steering Damper on VW Super Beetle : DIY
In this video I show you how I replaced a steering damper on my 1971 VW Super Beetle. The reason for doing this was in hopes that it would eliminate the shimmy shake (vibration at the front). In my previous video I show you what that shaking / vibration looks like from inside the car.
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#vw #volkswagen #beetle #vwbeetle #superbeetle #classicvwbugs

[@alidatorres6692]

I am so happy to see that you have the exact same problem as I am having right now. This video is very helpful thank you

[@carkingspot]

I’m glad to hear that you found this video helpful. In my case, the reason why I had that vibration (shaking) in the front was due to bad control arm bushings. Once I replaced those that shimmy shake / vibration was gone. I made a video about that as well on how I replaced the control arm bushings.

[@alidatorres6692]

@carkingspot3973 We are told today that we need to change the steering damper, the tie rod, and control arm bushings because it seems like it has never been changed since 71

[@carkingspot]

It looks like the original parts lasted for a pretty long time. I did notice a firmer ride once I replaced the steering damper. It’s a good thing to replace all those parts at once if they haven’t been replaced in such a long time. I ended up replacing the damper, control arm bushings and ball joints. It feels like new now. 🙂

[@chrisrobles2012]

So did it fix your problem with the shakes now that it’s been days since the Install?

[@carkingspot]

It didn’t fix the shake, but the car seems to drive a little better with the new steering damper. I’m right now in the process of replacing the control arm bushings (which were pretty rotted). I’ll upload a video on that as well.

[@chrisrobles2012]

@@carkingspot , I just bought a 71’ beetle . I towed it all the way home and felt weird shakes in my truck the entire time. I noticed when checking the brakes (non working master and no pedals at this moment) that the front tires are out of round . I spun the wheel and saw it pretty obviously. Now I’m thinking that was the weird shaking I felt while towing the beetle behind the truck. I’m going over all the suspension and steering after the brakes are bled and I clean the gas tank.

[@carkingspot]

Congratulations on getting the beetle! Is this your first classic beetle? The shakes are usually felt when driving the car, but it’s possible that you may have that issue as well. When I got my beetle I had to restore the fuel tank as well. I bought a fuel tank restore/sealing kit from Eastwood Company. It took me almost the whole day to clean it out and seal it, but now it looks like new. I had to replace the whole braking system (brake lines, hoses, wheel cylinders, brake shoes, master cylinder, drums, etc.) One thing that I would recommend if you’re going to go over the whole braking system is to get disk brakes at least in the front. This is what I wish I had done since it would have probably cost me the same. Let me know if you have any questions.

[@chrisrobles2012]

@@carkingspot , first beetle. I just ordered a wiring book. Previous owner has done many “quick fixes” that were unsafe. Brake master plastic nozzle was crimped completely shut , used clear hose for brake fluid. The tank is out now and he used double fuel hoses and clamps instead of a new 90 degree hose barb and nut , which could have led to fuel leaks. He cut the pans out so it’s yabba dabba doo time. Now I’m just waiting to get the pedals on, bleed brakes, then try to start the car via starting fluid until I can get the tank cleaned and painted(he used a grinder on it and made gouges).

[@carkingspot]

@@chrisrobles2012 That’s great to hear, the one I have is also my first beetle. I’ve learned a lot just by working on my beetle and driving it. The more I work on it the more thing I find that needs fixing. I enjoy it though. Keep me posted on your journey. Good luck 👍

[@jonvasquez4729]

Redo this video please. No view of damper bolt and bushing underneath. It only shows the jack.