Unconventional Overland Build: Breaking The Mold

We're building out an overland vehicle that will test our limits! Follow along with our progress on the WanderBug. We'll be doing everything to this micro-overlander, from modifying the drivetrain to installing a dual battery system that will power a fridge!
We're starting out with a 1960 Volkswagen Beetle that was someone's partially finished Baja Bug project. So far we've installed the fiberglass hood and fenders. Got the front suspension working safely. And pretty much trashed the motor it came with! There's a connecting rod that's knocking on the door, wanting to leave the party! And oil is pumping out the exhaust! We have our work cut out for us.
Also, follow along on our FaceBook and Instagram pages. We'll be posting pics of what we're doing every week.

[@mykalbee]

The noise, the vibration, is all part of the charm. My Dad had a 72 Super Beetle, and I loved that thing. He once put out an engine fire in it with a large mug from a convenient store (for soda refills) full of Sun Tea. I witnessed this event firsthand as I was following directly behind him. Lack of hose clamps on fuel lines was a thing.

[@Kiss__Kiss]

The LOVE BUG!!! It definitely describes your personality, and love for each other Mark, and Merri lol

[@anthonyglund]

Reproduction heater boxes are decent and when hooked up correctly makes a big difference!

[@kentonseydellaolcp4785]

Engine oil cooler can be mounted or ducted inside for heat. There are windshield defrosters for UTV's that can be used in the bug or keep ple ty of hand towels and a ice scraper handy.

[@tfcooks]

You could try those 12v heated seat pads/covers you can get. Not the best but an easy lightweight solution that you could run off the power station/battery. Cheers.

[@OrangeBoxxfab]

Heater... Stewart warner gas vw heater. I have had 3 of these when we used to do air cooled VW.

[@fritty9927]

Electric heater. I used the ones that plug into lighter outlets many times. Better than nothing.

[@2-old-Forthischet]

At one time that Baja Kit was illegal on the street because the headlights were too close together. Luckily, my headlights were in the fenders. I got pulled over on the street for off road lights with no covers, too high and circuit breakers not pulled.

[@anthonyglund]

Check out reduction box swing axle transaxles out of the pre 67 bus, lower gearing and about 2” of lift.

[@roryreid3124]

But if you use the reduction box your top speed is 50 - 55 mph i tried it it sucked it causes your engine case halve to vibrate and eventually leak due to the high rpm's

[@roryreid3124]

If you. Change height via swiingarm put a chain from your axle (near the outboard end of the axle) so the axle dont tuck under causing a rollover in fast curves and off camber driving it only took me 6 wrecked bugs to learn this info😉👍

[@WanderlostOverland]

Good tip!

[@davidwhocares3293]

BITCHIN BUG ! Such a cool looking early car! I'd stick with the stock front wheels and hubcaps man, that looks so cool with the bug-eye kit !

[@thomassanio8745]

And I thought my FJ40 was noisy🙄