Frontend shake at 40-50 MPH

[dennisa99]

When accelerating up thru 40-50MPH the front end of my 1974 beetle convertible shakes. I had the tires balanced thinking it was the cause but I still get the shakes. Any ideas on what to check?

[fode]

it sounds like the track control arm bushes are worn also the front anti roll bar bushes,if you can get them replace them with URETHANE ones they are more rigid than the original rubber ones ,this should cure your "shimmies" good luck....

[dennisa99]

Originally Posted by fode

it sounds like the track control arm bushes are worn also the front anti roll bar bushes,if you can get them replace them with URETHANE ones they are more rigid than the original rubber ones ,this should cure your "shimmies" good luck....

Thanks for the advice I will try replacing those bushes.

[BoatCop]

The front end shimmy you speak of is common on Super Beetles.

In addition to changing the control arm bushings, replace the steering stabilizer, and any other bushings that may be in the front suspension. There's a bunch of them.

Many aftermarket parts houses have complete kits with all the necessary bushings. If you go with uruthane, coat them with talcum powder before installing. This will keep the uruthane bushings from squeaking.

[dennisa99]

Originally Posted by BoatCop

The front end shimmy you speak of is common on Super Beetles.

In addition to changing the control arm bushings, replace the steering stabilizer, and any other bushings that may be in the front suspension. There's a bunch of them.

Many aftermarket parts houses have complete kits with all the necessary bushings. If you go with uruthane, coat them with talcum powder before installing. This will keep the uruthane bushings from squeaking.

Great tip on using the powder! Thanks