I have a front suspension for '66, type 3, ball joint with disc brakes that I would like to install drop spindles. Anyone know of a kit that will fit this setup or what would have to be modified to make work. I've checked around but not found anything yet.
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Why not just cut and twist the front beam sections like CMC said to do in their Speedster build manuals some 30 years ago.
I believe a type 3 has splined front torsion bars and the arms can be rotated like the rear spring plates, much easier than a type one.
Chris
Yes Chris, I have adjusted the arms and dropped front end, but as result, the geometry of front end has changed. The travel of arms in one direction can increase but opposite direction travel has decreased because the arms hit bump stops cause rough ride... not good. IMO with dropped spindles, arms can but rotated back and thus travel of arms will be back to normal....better ride. However, I can't seem to find drop spindles for 66' type 3. I think Beetles and Ghias of that year have similar front end components but not sure of which parts or completely understand the differences.
I believe that type 3 spindles are different than type 1, but am not sure. I do know the beam is different. Does it bolt in like a type 1? If it doesn' you wouldn't be able to adjust the caster easily with shims like in a bug/ghia (you'd be cutting out a small pie piece and rewelding the frame head). As for how the spindles are different- don't know details, as I don't think I've ever seen a type 3 spindle up close. I've never heard of type 3 drop spindles and am fairly up in what's going on in the VW world, but that doesn't mean they don't exist. I have seen type 3's in Hot VW's with type 1 beams transplanted in but they didn't go into any of the details- I'm guessing they cut off the stock frame head and mount the type 1 piece. Best bet is to start phoning- get the latest copy of Hot VW's and start making the rounds. And I get why you want to go this way- drop spindles do give a better ride.
Sorry I'm not more helpful. Al
Thanks guys, I believe it does bolt in like the type 1, so I could make some adjustments that way. I'll also check out the Hot VW and look for articles. Trying to rework my car after building it 30 yrs ago....correcting and improving without going through the bank acct. One might think bugs, ghias and Type 3 of same yr would have same front end components but doesn't appear to....don't understand why or what's different. Any other opinions out there on drop spindles for T-3 would be appreciated.
The SAMBA has a dedicated Type 3 Forum -
https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewforum.php?f=6
Some here use T3 rear brake components because they are wider so higher braking force but no other T3 components (although wheels and engines could b used). I suspect reason it differs from the T1 is that extra weight the T3 carries around.
It's been done...
lots of STUFF on the Samba site.... not sure anyone is doing Type 3 spindles anymore.
Contact the guy on the SAMBA that did them!
