Lowering the rear end

I would like to lower the rear end of my speedster about one or two more inches. I had someone lower the rear end of my 1976 Beetle transaxle when I first got it on the road but it has a rake slight rake and would look better setup flatter. Is this a difficult job? How is it done? Do I need any special tools? What is the limit to how much it can be lowered and how can I tell when I am approaching the limit?

Thanks,
Bruce
CMC-C

Bruce,
If you have IRS check out my earlier post. A book with useful info on this subject 'How To Modify Volkswagen Beetle' James Hale. It is a job that you need to have 4 or so hours to do.
I used a strut spring compressor (a piece of all-thread that has a hook welded to one end and a sliding hook that is forced up the thread by a nut), this was to load and unload the spring plate.
A protractor with a magnetic base, found at the local home/hardware store. Used to match the angle of the unloaded plate.
A 10 point bit to remove the axle from the bearing housing.
Various sockets and wrenches.
For IRS with long torsion bars, a 2 1/8" hole saw to allow the spring plates to be removed. (And no for me; the place where the simulated torsion bar covers on the fender did not line up with where I needed to place the hole.) I did not try to raise the body, and I found 356klasse had torsion bar covers.
If you want easy adjustability and do not want to be commited to a set adj. There is that option which I have no experience with.
If you have IRS with stock Torsion bars and want to go 2", have I gat a deal for you, or any one else that this would fit for. Email me .
You can try just moving your stock spring plate down one spline which will drop the rear end 2". I did this, liked the look but not the ride.
Victor

Also..
check Dune Buggies and HotVW's magazine. You'll find some suppliers or parts houses that advertise there that can supply you with ADJUSTABLE SPRING PLATES. When installed you can change the rear ride height without major work.

Greg B.

I have adjustable spring plates onmine. I bought a set and added some extra welding to make them stronger. The hard work is usually taking the stock ones off because they might be preloaded such that they are against the stops when you car is lifted, they can hurt you. If you place a jack underneath or use the special tool, then you're ok and it is relatively easy. Installin is easy. I threaded the adjusters 1/2 way and installed the plates such that the lower plate edge coincided with the stop and then installed new rubber bushings. Oh yeah, use longer bolts and 3 10-mm washers to make up for the plate thickness. If you do not, you'll crush the outer rubber and distorted. I love the adjustability!! I hope this helps you and others. I'll post pics too.

Regards,
Tony
speedy57tub
lvwoodgod