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Learn / Lowering & Alignment · AK-LRN-LA-001 · Rev 1.0
Learn from the PROs
Lowering & Alignment
How to lower a classic Beetle, Ghia or Type 2 Bus the right way — front and rear — then set ride height and alignment so it drives as good as it looks.
01 · Plan
Lower it in the right order
A good drop is planned, not guessed. Know what you have, lower the front and rear the right way, then set the alignment.
1
Know your car
Identify your rear axle and the condition of your front end before you buy parts.
Rear Axle Identification →What Condition Is My VW In? →2
Lower front & rear
Pick the guide for your car — Beetle and Ghia, or Type 2 Bus — and do the front and rear the right way.
Beetle/Ghia front →Rear end →Type 2 Bus →3
Set height & align
Dial in ride height, then align the car so it tracks straight.
Ride height →Alignment specs →02 · Lowering Series
Lowering, start to finish
Five guides, in the order you'll need them.
Thinking about drop plates? Read All You Need to Know About Drop Plates first, and see why the PROs skip them in Part 2.
03 · Dial it in
Height, alignment & tracking
Getting it down is half the job. These get it driving right.
Your Classic VW Beetle Is One Ride Height Adjustment AwayDialing in ride height once the car is down.BeetleRead the guide →Classic VW Beetle Alignment: Specs + DIY Guide1949–1977 alignment specs and how to check them. Always align after lowering.BeetleRead the guide →6 Reasons Your Classic VW Wanders on the HighwayIf it tracks poorly after lowering, start here.Read the guide →Don't Rip Off Your AdjustersAvoid the most common adjuster mistake.FrontRead the guide →
PDF install instructions
Link Pin Ultimate Beam Install
Download PDF ↓Ball Joint Ultimate Beam Install
Download PDF ↓Type 2 Straight Axle Kit Install
Download PDF ↓Ready to shop?
Lowering kits, spindles, torsion parts and beams.
Not sure how low to go?
Tell the PROs about your car and goals and get a custom suspension plan.
Get My Ultimate Plan →Process — Not Parts — Determines Performance