Seeking mentor and enthusiasts in Portland, OR area.

[Blackshirt]

Hello,
My son purchased this buggy and we are looking forward to getting into it and tweaking, updating and general tinkering. Looking to see if there are any of you guys in the Portland area.

This is not a Manx, and we aren't sure exactly what it is yet but it is FUN!
1961 VW pan
1974 1600cc motor, built to a 1644 if I understand correctly.
It runs, drives and is in overall great condition and even came with a custom top. Most of all my son loves it and we are having fun driving it around before the PNW weather sets in. He was 15 when he bought it a month ago and just tuned 16 but won't have his license until after football season finishes up, just no free time. That gives us the winter to toy around and learn about it.

All in all, it seems to be $1500 well spent. It was his hard earned and saved.

First thought, seats and shoulder belts...

Any input, ideas or whatever is appreciated.

[FulsGld]

I'm three hours east of you. What are your driving plans for it? Will it be street only or will there be some off-road stuff (sand, woods, fire trails, river crossings)???

[langan]

Cool car. I am 6hrs away up in Sequim. I always have advice

[5150bossman]

Wow, where to begin... First, congratulations. That looks like a sweet ride. Some considerations that will affect the form and function of the buggy. An experienced driver can get away with it as it is (more of the old-school style). If you are looking to do primarily off-road, I would consider a body lift to get more tire clearance. Who will be driving it most? Sounds like it will be your son. If so, I would consider a few safety modifications. I would start with a pair of high-back seats, and five-point belts. I would then put in a four or six point roll cage with side-bars. The standard hoop roll bar is only good in static (slow speed) roll overs. If there is any speed involved, it will just fold over and be of no use. There are many other mods you could do too, but I would consider these a priority. You don't want something tragic to happen when you are out just trying to have fun.

[Blackshirt]

Thanks to all who responded.
My son won’t be driving it on his own until next summer, after several months of good driving has been established.

These are photos taken from the web that represent the direction he wants to take the buggy.

[FulsGld]

Looks like street use only...

[langan]

I have both type buggies one like you want to build one more off roadish. Both fun the low one gets way more attention but the off road one is funner.

[Blackshirt]

Looks like street use only...

That is his plan for now. But I could see it easily changing. There seem to be nearly endless options.

[Blackshirt]

I have both type buggies one like you want to build one more off roadish. Both fun the low one gets way more attention but the off road one is funner.

Nice to have the choice. Both look great!

[langan]

Lots of great ideas on the Samba forum