This page is in progress – add anchors and link from posts to specific resource tools/howtos
Tool Resources:
Here are a list of tools – some must have tools, and some that are nice to have, but not entirely necessary:
Necessary (buy higher quality if you can afford and plan to do this more than once):
Air compressor – I don’t have a compressor that I would trust for the final paint job, but having it for DA sander, air chisel, primer, and many other steps is a must. I have a 20 gallon compressor similar to this (affordable):
https://www.harborfreight.com/air-tools-compressors/air-compressors-tanks/20-gallon-16-hp-135-psi-oil-lube-vertical-air-compressor-64857.html
Angle Grinder with attachments – an angle grinder is one of the tools I use the most – whether using a cutting blade, wire brush wheel, flap disc, or grinding wheel – you can’t get by without one.. or at least I wouldn’t want to try getting by without one. I have a couple cheap-o grinders that I use all the time. Stock up with a few wire wheels, cutting wheels, and flap discs because you’ll use them.
https://www.harborfreight.com/corded-4-12-in-5-amp-angle-grinder-60372.html
https://www.harborfreight.com/pack-of-5-3-inch-metal-cutting-discs-66393.html?_br_psugg_q=grinding+disc
https://www.harborfreight.com/4-1-2-half-inch-36-grit-flap-disc-67639.html?_br_psugg_q=flap+disc
https://www.harborfreight.com/4-1-2-half-inch-grinding-wheel-39677.html?_br_psugg_q=grinding+wheel
https://www.harborfreight.com/7-piece-grinder-brush-kit-90976.html
Hammer and dolly set – here’s a cheap hammer and dolly set – they also make dolly sets specifically for vw bug parts
https://www.harborfreight.com/body-and-fender-set-7-pc-63259.html?_br_psugg_q=auto+body+dolly
Welder and Accessories – I have the following gear and it does fine for the light weight sheet metal – though if you can afford better do it!!
https://www.harborfreight.com/flux-125-welder-63582.html
https://www.harborfreight.com/adjustable-shade-auto-darkening-welding-helmet-46092.html
https://www.harborfreight.com/welding-gloves-39664.html
Miscellaneous:
https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/knives-axes/utility-knives-blades/snap-blade-utility-knife-97068.html – I like these utility blades for window rubber, etc since they extend and flex
How to Resources:
Below is a list of video resources that I’ve found helpful:
Removing Windows:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_SKoPHF0ac – Chris Vallone explains in detail how to remove windows – with or without a blade
Rear End Resources:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNymN_LqSQg – (two part video) – this guy explains the assembly of the rear axle very well and shows how to disassemble the axle down to the fulcrums. This was very helpful to see all the different parts and how they go together.
Front End Resources:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2oLA6–fwQ – this video clearly shows how to remove and replace the front wheel bearings – very well explained and clear video. Not exactly accurate with the 56, but same idea and helpful.