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Samba conversion kit

Posted: Sun Mar 25, 2018 1:53 pm
by Newby
Hi All

I am thinking about converting my 65 split into a samba, any suggestions as to who does it in Cape Town and approximate cost :D

Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Sun Mar 25, 2018 4:03 pm
by retrovan
Why ! ??????

Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Sun Mar 25, 2018 10:22 pm
by Newby
Retrovan:
Perhaps i should halve started off this thread as : I have a splitty - how ever I am considering converting her to a Samba
1) Would she loose her value and do I keep her integrity?
2) Or........ should I convert her to a Samba as I absolutely love Sambas, how ever they are extremely rarare and this would be the "Closest I will ever get to a "samba"

Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Mon Mar 26, 2018 6:06 am
by sean
It will always remain a fake.

You can compare it to one of these fibreglass Speedsters to a Porsche 356. You can not compare the quality or build or price between the two.

The same will apply for your fake Samba.

Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Mon Mar 26, 2018 6:39 am
by Donovan D
I believe this is Vicky who bought one of Tyl's LHD Brazilian splits.

Please post up some pics of the splitty.

Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Mon Mar 26, 2018 7:12 am
by Eugene
It is your bus....do with it as you please.I do not believe it will devalue your bus.

Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Mon Mar 26, 2018 8:07 am
by fig
Sambas in South Africa are good for only 2 things: showing off and sunburn.

To do this conversion properly will co$t a LOT. Whatever you use for the sunroof won't look close to factory. If you don't do it properly it will just be a brutal hack and will most definitely devalue your bus. Even if it's done properly it will devalue your bus among collectors.

Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Mon Mar 26, 2018 8:08 am
by fig
Donovan D wrote: Mon Mar 26, 2018 6:39 am I believe this is Vicky who bought one of Tyl's LHD Brazilian splits.

Please post up some pics of the splitty.
And let us know how it went getting a RWC.

Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Mon Mar 26, 2018 8:45 am
by splitbusahollic
Hi Newby

There is nothing wrong with making a Samba replica, as long as it is done accurately and professionally in order to add value. There are various options available: Klassic Fab imported panels, or the complete pressed Samba roof that We will be importing from our suppliers later in the year. You will also need belly pans for structural support.

As far as value is concerned.....Let me help with with the facts, rather than assumptions... A professionally built 21 window Samba replica sells for around R900K and the reason i can tell you this is because we have built one last year for a local client and are currently busy with three more for orders. We also manufacture and supply a very professional copy of the original rag-top sunroof complete with upgraded running gear for a much smoother operation.The locking mechanism operates exactly the same as the original VW one and the material used for the rag top is the same as was used originally, and on all other convertible sports cars.
All the parts for the Samba conversion are available from us right down to the colour matched vinyl, trim and new Dash clock.

The conversion is not cheap as you can tell from the price these buses sell for due to additional panels and parts needed ,a lot more detailed parts (such as coat hooks, s/steel internal trim, jail bars and luggage rail add to the authenticity of a Great Samba replica
You are more than welcome to contact me to discuss any issues regarding a Samba conversion.

Jacques ,

vintagekombi@gmail.com

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Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Mon Mar 26, 2018 8:49 am
by Blitzkrieg
Newby wrote: Sun Mar 25, 2018 1:53 pm Hi All

I am thinking about converting my 65 split into a samba, any suggestions as to who does it in Cape Town and approximate cost :D
Speak to @Muderick, he would be able to advise you - he knows of one that has been converted to a very high standard :D

Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Mon Mar 26, 2018 9:19 am
by splitbusahollic
fig wrote: Mon Mar 26, 2018 8:07 am Whatever you use for the sunroof won't look close to factory.
Fig, i beg to differ, We build a very professional copy of the original sunroof. Those who have seen it in person and operated it can second that.


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Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Mon Mar 26, 2018 9:23 am
by Newby
Hi

Jacques - thanks for the reply will be in contact

Blitzkrieg - will look up and try find @Muderick

Donovan D - yes it is Vicky, have not yet put her through Road worthy as she has quite a lot of play on her steering which I am busy sorting out at the moment.
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Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Mon Mar 26, 2018 9:38 am
by jolas
Howzit, welcome to ACVWSA and congrats on your bus :)

Is it a panel van or Kombi ?

Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Mon Mar 26, 2018 10:03 am
by Newby
Thanks Jolas,

Really excited how ever have a lot to learn, hoping you guys are willing to guide me 😀
She is a Kombi

Re: Samba conversion kit

Posted: Mon Mar 26, 2018 8:15 pm
by Cape turbos
Hi there
I definitely agree with some if done properly it will increase the value.
We built one last year to factory specs
Only the VIN no will tell it's not the real deal that's how you can build a samba if wanted.
Some pics of the one we did.

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