where to start

where in the world is the best place to start on making a 71 bug a daily driver? the floors are in pretty good shape, and it runs pretty well. i plan on picking it up this week, and i want to start driving it asap. it needs work, and i intend on doing a bit. i'll change to oil first, and fix the passenger window, it's off track. but what next for a biginner like me? i know nothing, and have limited tools for now. i'll consider a thourough rebuild later, after i find out if i have the patience for this thing. any and all help is welcome.

I just got mines last night and we are in the same boat.

i ended up with a 74. it's still in good shape for the most part. i got it yesterday, and it's got a pretty bad shake and it thumps. i think it's the brakes. i'll be looking into that stuff this weekend

I'm doing a oil change today!!

A good place to start is at Barnes and Noble. Go and pick up a copy of "How to Keep Your Volkswagen Alive" by John Muir. This definative manual not only covers everything from service and repair, but explains how each system works, what tools you'll need for every and any type of repair, the history of the beetle (including differences from year to year), and source listings for parts suppliers and volkswagen organizations.

"How To Keep Your Volkswagen Alive" is written by John Muir, a long time Volkswagen lover. This 476 page soft cover book is not only a manual on how to service and repair your Volkswagen, it includes chapters on the history of the Volkswagen, how they work, how to buy a Volkswagen, the tools you'll need and even how to drive a Volkswagen. It does a very detailed job in describing the many types of Volkswagens so you will know exactly what you have and how to fix it. There is also a time line that describes changes in the cars from year to year.

The book is written based on the assumption that you know absolutely nothing about the car. It's got no photographs, but a lot of excellent diagrams and drawings. Best of all, it's a great read. Part technical, part humor and part philosophy. You'll understand your car better and you'll appreciate it more.

I have a VW service manual from ebay that I almost never open, and Muir's book which I use all the time.

thanks a lot. i have been wondering about that book..i have the haynes and chilton books..but their dry and a little boring. i'll pick it up and take a gander.