The PRO’s have developed a new system that allows you to build your desired Classic Volkswagen based on your investment budget. Transparency is essential in this process, enabling a focus on the amount you wish to invest in the project, rather than what we might do if we were in your position.
- **Premium Option**: For the best of the best, install a PRObuilt beam, rear shocks, readjust rear torsion bars, and perform a four-wheel alignment with micro-adjustments. This also includes all hardware options, a steering coupler, and a computer-controlled four-wheel alignment.
**Brakes**
- **$500**: Rebuild stock brakes with a focus on maximizing installation. The process is key here. You will likely need to purchase imported parts, turn factory drums, and ensure the adjustments are correct. Focus on the process and do it right the first time.
- **$1,000**: Rebuild stock brakes, emphasizing installation quality. You can use German or high-quality parts, turn factory drums, and get the adjustments just right. Focus on the process and do it right the first time.
- **$2,000**: Upgrade to front disc brakes and invest in high-quality drums and wheel cylinders. Turning factory drums is preferable to using new imported drums. Replace cables, lines, switches, grommets, etc. Focus on the process and do it right the first time.
- **$3,000**: Upgrade to four-wheel disc brakes. Focus on the process and do it right the first time.
- **Premium Option**: Build the optimal set of four-wheel disc brakes tailored to your needs, whether for cruising or high-performance applications. Depending on your skill level, find the right person with a "do it right" mentality to install it. Focus on the process and do it right the first time.
**Transaxle**
- **$500**: Change the oil, new boots, seals, Bowden tube, starter bushing, throw-out bearing, and shift coupler. Focus on getting the best performance out of what you have.
- **$2,000**: Find a reputable local shop to rebuild the transaxle while you handle the removal and installation. Include the Bowden tube, starter bushing, throw-out bearing, and shift coupler. Use the best 85/140 oil you can afford.
- **$3,500**: Install a PRObuilt Transaxle. Don’t forget to add the Bowden tube, throw-out bearing, and shift coupler. Use the best 85/140 oil you can afford.
- **Premium Option**: Install a PRObuilt Transaxle with new transaxle mounts. Add the Bowden tube and shift coupler, and use the best 85/140 oil. Also, install the disc brakes mentioned above. Depending on your skill set, find the right person with a "do it right" mentality to handle the installation. Focus on the process and do it right the first time.
**Wheels & Tires**
- **$500**: Focus on what you currently have. Find tires that meet your needs on Amazon, install them yourself, and invest in updating the finish on your wheels.
- **$1,000**: Continue to focus on what you have. Find tires that suit your needs on Amazon, but have them professionally installed and balanced. Invest in updating the finish yourself.
- **$2,000**: Start looking for wheels that are imported and mass-produced to keep costs down. Check Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist for deals. Find tires that meet your needs on Amazon and have them professionally installed and balanced.
- **$3,000**: Similar to the previous step—look for new imported, mass-produced wheels. Find tires that meet your needs on Amazon or Tires.com, and have them professionally installed and balanced.
- **$5,000**: Have a custom-tailored set of wheels built and powder-coated to match your vision, paired with the right tire combination. Fit and finish will be crucial.
- **Premium Option**: Have a custom-tailored set of wheels built and powder-coated to meet your vision, with the appropriate tire combination. Focus on high-quality chrome work, and consider engaging a next-level artist to pinstripe or detail the center caps for a stunning appearance. Remember, details are key.
**Chassis Restoration**
- **$500**: Work with what you have. Use the allocated funds wisely, focusing on the most important parts. Perform rust repair using remnants of sheet metal, and complete as much metalwork as you can yourself. Invest time to ensure everything is straight, the preparation is thorough, and the tubes in the tunnel are in good working order. Make sure all threaded inserts are chased, and coat your work in high-quality primer and paint with the remaining funds.
- **$1,000**: Continue with the same approach but invest in a quality set of pan halves.
- **$2,000**: Follow the previous recommendations and finish with powder coating and a fresh chassis seal.
- **$3,000**: Same as above, but now pay attention to the details. Invest in new cables, rebuild the shift linkage and pedal assembly, and replace bushings, seals, and grommets. Add access holes for easier maintenance down the line and improve seat belt anchors.
- **$5,000**: Hire a top-notch professional to complete all of the above tasks.
- **$10,000**: Have Airkewld build you a chassis that is ready for assembly, following the same guidelines as above.
- **Premium Option**: Have Airkewld build you a chassis, including all components above, and have it shipped to your door with installation guides to maximize your investment.
**Engine**
- **$500**: Focus on what you currently have. Change the oil and filter, adjust the valves, replace fuel lines without a fuel filter in the engine compartment, install new spark plugs and a fan belt, and torque bolts down to the specifications in a Chilton or Haynes manual. Stick to your budget and don’t overthink it. (Don’t think about separating the block)
- **$1,000**: Same as above, but invest in a Bosch cap, rotor, wires, and condenser, and replace the exhaust gaskets. Rebuild the carburetor(s) yourself, keeping within your budget. (Don’t think about separating the block)
- **$2,000**: Continue as before, and send your carburetor(s) and fuel pump out for professional rebuilding. Consider investing in a quality aftermarket distributor and purchasing new imported exhaust components and engine compartment seals. Pay attention to the process and details, avoiding cheap Chinese carburetors or fuel pumps. (Don’t think about separating the block)
- **$3,000**: Same process as above, but invest in a professionally rebuilt German generator/voltage regulator and/or alternator. Focus on improving the quality of your fuel system. (Don’t think about separating the block)
- **$5,000**: Have your engine rebuilt by a reputable company, such as Anibol Chico from Chico Performance Racing.
- **$10,000**: Build the ultimate engine within your budget. Concentrate on quality internal components and ensure that an experienced builder completes the work rather than simply opting for someone with a better price.
- **Premium Option**: Build your engine based on how you plan to drive the vehicle. There is no need to invest in a 200+ horsepower engine if you only plan to cruise to car shows. Focus on the best quality components and discuss your needs with your builder. Consider products from A1 Exhaust, Ross Wulf Engine Components, Gene Berg Components, Chico Performance Components, Airkewld Components, etc. Spend extra time on fit and finish. Think about parts that might rust; having those components zinc-coated, powder-coated tins for durability, and cerakoting the exhaust can enhance their lifespan. Using high-quality seals, like Viton, can help create a leak-free engine.
This structured approach ensures that you can effectively manage your budget while achieving the results you desire for your Classic Volkswagen.
