Aircooled VW South Africa

Hi all the Air-cooled friends,

OK this is just an add on. When I bought this 1952 Beetle, it had a roof rack on the car. I must be honest, I'm not really a roof rack person, but this roof rack upon further investigation were an original VW rack produced in Germany. Around 1954 - 1956.
Unfortunately like the rest of the car the rack was broken and in a bad shape. One of my friends helped me, and after many hours, this is what it look like on my 1957. Can't wait to fit it to the 1952.

The first photo is a promotional photo from the 1950's. This specific rack was produced for cars with a sunroof. I think that VWSA only imported a few racks, but those years it was a one size fits all. Maybe Jaco can shed more light as he is the go to man with knowledge on this time period.

Rudi

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Nice job looks good on the car but the car looks even better.

Very nice

I must be honest, I do not really like roof racks either and don't know much about them. Still very nice to have and a rare item.

Was searching a bit and looks like the one you got was from 1957.

In the 52 accessory brochure it had a different shape:


The one in 54/55 brochure also different:


The one you got is in the 57 brochure.


Nice addition to that was a protective cover:

Hi Jaco,

Thanks for the info. Now I also know a bit more. Thanks for sharing your knowledge of this time period.

In the end I will still decide if it will go on the car or not.

Rudi

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Hi gents and ladies,

I've been very quiet for the last few months. Just because restoring a car like this is taking time, energy and a lot of patience. The last few months tested the patience especially as parts and the slow sourcing thereof are sapping energy.

Since the last post the seat frames have been painted, the roof lining has been fitted and the seats upholstered. Some small but very expensive chrome parts arrived and were fitted and add to the car's appearance.

The carpets were supposed to have arrived 3 weeks ago, but alas, not arrived. So we are nearing the end, but at the current arrival of what is necessary to finish this project, it can be a few months before I'll be able to drive this beauty.

Enjoy the photo's and let's hope parts arrive sooner than later.

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Wow - absolutely stunning!

Can words describe it ???

Haans

Nice collection of toys in that garage!!

Looks very very good!!

Who did the upholstery?
Where did the carpets come from? German square weave?

Looking very nice!

Hi Riaan,

Thanks for your response. The upholstery were done by 2 old toppies that used to work for SAA in their upholstery department, but were laid off about 5 years ago. They are real grafters, very proud of their work and true professionals.

We are still awaiting the carpets, I ordered square weave. It was supposed to have arrived 3 weeks ago, but patience is your friend in this game.

Some more photos of the interior.

Rudi

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Very nice work

Knowing the pain of finding, shipping and getting these parts through customs I can appreciate the work and effort that has gone into this amazing project.

Well done.

Herman

Hi all the ACVW fans,

After a long wait, it seems that this project will be finished by March 2020. The rooflining arrived and the carpets will be installed first thing in the new year. All electrics are working and operating.
Here are a few photos of the underside.

Have a great Christmas time.

Rudi

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Very nice well done

Hope you get all the past so you can enjoy the ride, as the 1st is always to most remembered.

Herman

perfection.... beautiful