Mid America Motorworks Tackle Volkswagen Restoration Project

Dec. 1, 2010 - PRLog -- A group of Mid America Motorworks employees has been getting hands-on experience in Volkswagen restoration with the Patina Bug project. The project, led by Sales Specialist Eric Spiker, is the step-by-step restoration and slight modification of a 1967 Volkswagen Beetle. When the car arrived at Mid America Motorworks’ corporate campus in Effingham, Ill., it had a patina green paint finish, providing a name for the project.

Several tasks are planned before the car’s scheduled completion in May 2011. They include installing a new 1641cc engine, front and rear disc brake kits, the PERFORMANCE CHOICE interior package, new running boards, roof rack, new weather-strip and general restoration. The team plans to use VW parts and accessories available through Mid America Motorworks and leave the patina color when finished.

“Our general theme for this car is to make a vehicle that is highly reliable, while maintaining the Patina look,” Spiker said.

As with any true learning process, this project is not without its setbacks. When replacing the torsion springs, the wrong measurement was used causing a bit of a delay. However, the team is moving ahead with the adage in mind of measuring twice before cutting.

The VW came to Mid America Motorworks from California for restoration and testing purposes. One obvious benefit to finding a California car was the good condition of the metal. From the floor pans to the doors, the Patina Bug’s metal will only need minimal cleaning and sealing. When complete, the bug will be used as a test subject for new and existing products, as well as a company vehicle.  

To date, the Mid America Motorworks team has removed the front wheels, the axle beam, the master cylinder and the steering gearbox. The team will be adding a lowered axle beam as part of the modifications. VW enthusiasts can follow the Patina Bug’s progress through detailed photography and updates.

The Patina Bug is expected to be finished in time for Mid America Motorworks’ Funfest for Air-Cooled Volkswagens, scheduled for June 4-5, 2011. Funfest is a two-day event that celebrates the passion for VWs and their legacy in the automotive world.

Mid America Motorworks offers quality parts and accessories for 1953-2011 Corvette and 1950-1979 Air-Cooled VW enthusiasts. For more information on Mid America Motorworks, or to request a free catalog, please call toll free 1-800-500-1500 or shop www.mamotorworks.com. Follow us on facebook and twitter, and keep up with Mike Yager at blog.autotainment.com.

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Mid America Motorworks, located in Effingham, IL is dedicated to the automotive enthusiasts. Through full-color mail order catalogs, our website & retail store we offer thousands of aftermarket parts and accessories for Corvettes & Air-Cooled Volkswagens.