With a background in management and no hands on tactile jobs in the past, I am probably the must unlikely candidate for a VW restoration project. Never the less, I have managed to get this far.

Training

When it comes to car restoration.... well I have not been formally trained in any aspect. Lots of trail and error, practice makes perfect they say. I certainly agree with the statement. When starting the roof channel repairs my welding was not great, by the end, it was a lot better. I would still like to attend a formal welding class, however, not to sure what the pace would be like..... as I'm a fast learner... I don't like hanging about..

Information

All the work carried out on the 66 Bug has been completed by myself, with help from info off the net and in service manuals. People I have met have also given me tips.... one thing I have learnt is never be scared to say "I don't know" tell people you are unsure, they will be glad to help out.

My experience 

I have played with bikes and cars for about 15years. Only on a DIY basis. The most challenging task to date was the rebuilding of my 72bay. Prior to this was basis stuff, oil  changes, minor body work with filler.......... that was about it.

Oh, in 1997 I replaced rebuilt the engine in my Ford Fiesta XR2 and then replaced it 2 years later.

Body repair

When it comes to body repair.. this project was the first real welding that I had done. I purchased a Mig welder from a friend at work and then set off trying it out. Hard at first, trying to get the settings just right. After 10 bottles of gas from rip off Halfords I managed to get things going OK.

Panel repair is an art, you  must be creative to get the best out of the sheet metal, a pair of tin snips and some effort is all it takes. Oh and a grinder, this is a must....

Spraying

The first attempt at spraying was on my 72bay, it came out great. All done in my mother in laws garden in the summer... no runs or orange peel effects, just great paint. Loads of people asked if the bus was finished in 2pac paint... I surprised myself. In Aug 2000 I re-sprayed the bus, what a crappy job. the poor quality was down to, well, I thinks it was the weather, really to hot for cellulose. The paint dried in the air... A lesson learnt.

When I spray the bug I will be taking my time, fingers crossed it will come out OK... no not OK, show finish. (please mail any tips on spaying cellulose)