Swing Axle to IRS Conversion

[DeeKhum]

I am keen on converting my swing axle to IRS and then installing an 091 gearbox. I saw an advert on eBay for the IRS swing arms and CB Performance sell the the weld on brackets. Where can I find the spring plates or can I convert the swing axle ones?

I have also seen on the internet an independent front suspension with adjustable coil over shocks made by Mendeola selling at $3250 (Whew! with the current exchange rate). Is it worth the money though? A company called Red 9 Desing in the UK also has a similar product to the Mendeola that sells at 1125 Pounds (Whew). On the Mendeola suspension I can see that a Golf MK 1 steering rack is used. Can I maybe put that on my torsion beam so long?

Your advice is highly appreciated.

[jolas]

chat with bugger, he might be able to help you -

[Tony Z]

there is more to an IRS conversion than at first meets the eye. Obviously we dont have an abundance of trailing arms and the associated bolts, spacers, bushings, gearboxes....
an 091 gearbox needs work to the body to clear the nosecone, also needs new front mounts fabricated
So yes, and IRS conversion is great, but its not cheap or easy. Just be aware of this.

As for the front, you need the full suspension from either company. No bits patched on hoping this will work. All or nothing.
Mendeola is better but so are their prices.

A swing axle bug can be made to handle pretty well. Camber compensator at the rear improves the ride 10 fold.

[flatfourfan]

Be prepared for a hefty price tag. Porsche parts are probably the best way to go in SA for IRS, I was looking at R5000ish just for rear of a 944, R3000 fot the torque tube. Then you haven't touched gearbox and the rest or paid anyone to do the work.

[vwpumagt]

http://www.pumagte.com/phpbb/viewtopic. ... 4&start=15

This might give you an idea of what's involved.

[krautspeed]

I have done this conversion, and fitted a 944 rear IRS axle, with jigs etc.

[Pine]

The IRS conversion on my Lolette Buggy was pretty straightforward, it started when I got this old IRS rear clip:



The trailing arms & double spring plate setup were sourced from an auto Type 3 chassis, and the gearbox from a 1303



IMPI then helped me to merge the IRS rear to a king/link pin front chassis









I absolutely LOVE the IRS, it provides a totally different driving experience!

[flatfourfan]

^always my fav....

[DeeKhum]

Thank you for the input guys. I have sourced a complete Porsche 944 rear suspension. I have ordered the jig to correctly position the the trailing arm brackets on the torque for welding. I will keep you posted. Will also supply pictures soon. Anyone with a balljoint front beam? the Porsche discs work on if installed on the balljoint suspension.

[riaanj]

Thank you for the input guys. I have sourced a complete Porsche 944 rear suspension. I have ordered the jig to correctly position the the trailing arm brackets on the torque for welding. I will keep you posted. Will also supply pictures soon. Anyone with a balljoint front beam? the Porsche discs work on if installed on the balljoint suspension.

I think it's a lot of work, so good luck brother, looking forward to those pics..

[buggyfan]

Just a note if you don't know it yet,a balljoint beam can't bolt directly onto a linkpin pan.

[beetle786]

Look around for a 1302 or 1303 if possible . Not easy to find one though . They already have irs and independent front suspension .

It should cost about the same as converting a std beetle suspension maybe less .

If you just want a challenge then go ahead with it really want to see it done it'll be something you'll be proud off in the end to

[DeeKhum]

Hello there guys. Im back after a long time.. I had to complete my studies and my project was put on hold.

I am now waiting for my jigs required to correctly position the pivot brackets. I also found an illustrated guide to welding the pivots into place.