>>Huck Finn, that is a gorgeous bug! Hello group, my name is Jim
from Pittsburgh, PA and I own a 1974 Super Beetle. This was my
first car and the car has been in my family since it was almost
new. It just keeps getting handed down. The question I have for
you guys is how much chassis rust is too much? The pans and heater
channels appear to be ok(both fixed a while ago), with the exception
of some surface rust on the bottom. The problem lies in the ends of
the vehicle. It was tapped in the rear, which didn't hurt the body,
but the damage is noticeable when viewing from underneath
(crumpled). The front has what looks to be salt damage with parts
just falling apart. I know it is impossible to tell without
actually looking at it, but I am looking for some guidance. I rent
a one stall garage, so taking the body off and having a separate
rolling chassis in the same space isn't an option for me at this
time. I have paid too much rent for storing it over the years and
have decided to either fix it up or sell it cheap.
Not an easy decision for me, especially when the body is in pretty
good shape overall and the engine seems OK. Any suggestions are
appreciated.<<

Well Jim:

If you can see the street through the floorpan, then that is too
much rust. If stuff is falling off (as you described), then that is
too much rust. But don't fret. There are replacement segments for
your problem, and any chassis can be straightened. Are you willing
to do the work yourself or have a shop do it for you? If it's your
framehead, then you can get replacements anywhere (especially CIP1
and Mid America Motorworks). If it's the pan havles, then believe it
or not, they are the easiest to replace. Hope that helps.

Joe

Proud Owner of A '72 Super Beetle