• Eric
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  • Registered: 2010-07-11
  • Posts: 43

Topic: removing body on convertible VW

Hi... I just pulled out all the bolts to remove the body on my convertible 1968 Karmann Ghia and now I'm kinda worried about removing the body...   

it's a convertible, so can the body twist and buckle while it's in the air???  someone told me that as long as the doors are latched that it will be ok... but, in terms of paiting it ect... shouldn't the body be braced?  I was going to make a cross brace of angle iron that connects the back are to the front top door hinge (front to back on each side) then weld in an "X" this will lock it all together and prevent it from twisting when it is in for media blasting and painting and then again for when it's put back onto the chassis...

am I crazy for doing all this???  is it necessary?

thanks again!

1968 VW  Karmann Ghia Convertible
  • Registered: 2009-06-25
  • Posts: 558

Re: removing body on convertible VW

Bracing is a good idea, especially for convertibles. With no roof, your strength mostly comes mostly from the floor, and you are removing the floor. Although a rust free Ghia may be strong enough to go without braces if you are careful, what happens if the dolly shifts or partially gives way? Better safe than having two halves of a car, or doors that no longer fit.

Paul

Last edited by Altema (2010-07-29 04:09:59)

  • From: somewhere over the rainbow USA
  • Registered: 2006-07-26
  • Posts: 1,889

Re: removing body on convertible VW

yes good advice from Altema, the strength comes from the pan and braces are essential to keep the body from distorting.

burrhead

A wise man makes his own decisions, an ignorant man follows public opinion.
  • Eric
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  • Registered: 2010-07-11
  • Posts: 43

Re: removing body on convertible VW

Hi, thanks, this one is 100% solid, but I will go for the braces...

it doesn't need much... just what I described

thanks!

1968 VW  Karmann Ghia Convertible
  • TomB
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  • From: Austin, TX
  • Registered: 2004-03-27
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Re: removing body on convertible VW

The "Bug Me Video" on pan replacement shows their way of bracing. This is on a Bug, but would apply to Ghia as well. These videos are worth watching.
Your method sounds fine.