So, you have an old Volkswagen model that you would like to reconstruct into a trike — but aren’t sure exactly how to do it. Making a trike out of your old VW is a great idea and isn’t as difficult as you might think. Follow the steps below to figure out a way to salvage that machinery that you feel has reached the end of the road.
Step 1: You will be using an older model Volkswagen. Karmann Ghias have been known to work well as trikes because their rear wheels are approximately four inches wider than that of a bug’s.
Step 2: Roll the old VW over on its side. You will need to cut out its rear end using an oxy-acetylene torch. The engine transmission and rear suspension will fall out together, in one piece.
Step 3: Weld some sticks of one-inch stock to form a seat that will be big enough to store a bed-roll and a change of clothes, and also a storage compartment. For a rule of thumb, that compartment should be big enough to contain two cases of beer.
Step 4: You will now cover the frame with sheet steel and poke some holes for lights, and also the stereo and anything else you might want to include in your trike.
Step 5: Paint the vehicle a subtle color so not too much attraction is brought to it. You will need to rebuild the engine using a mild cam and big bore kit. Use chrome for pieces of the engine that are loose. You can buy chrome rims and put them on for cosmetic appeal.
Step 6: You have your new VW trike. It will be about 100-horsepower, four speed with reverse.
Tips
- Make sure you are careful when you do take your ride out for a spin. Chances are you have not ridden a VW trike before so it might take some getting used to.
- If possible, have someone with mechanical knowledge help or supervise you if you are not entirely sure of yourself through this process.
Items Needed
- VW - older model, preferably Karmann Ghia
- Oxy-acetylene torch
- Welding tools
- Sheet steel
- Paint
- Chrome