What is a VW Rat Rod?

Whether a VW owner or an enthusiast, you are probably looking for new information about VWs. A term you might have encountered is VW Beetle Rat Rod. So, what is a VW Bug Rat Rod, and how can you build one? This guide will discuss everything you should know about a VW Bug Rat Rod.

What is a VW Beetle Rat Rod?

Every VW owner or enthusiast knows there are different kinds of Hot Rods. If you haven’t heard of the term before, you will be glad to know that a Hot Rod is a VW that has been customized to improve performance and appearance. Street Rods and traditional Hot Rods are perhaps the most common types of Hot Rods. Another type of Hot Rod that people don’t talk about more often is a VW Bug Rat Rod.

Simply put, a VW Rat Rod is a VW that has been modified to imitate earlier Hot Rods. Like other Hot Rods, a VW Rat Rod is a garage or backyard project. That means you might have to start from scratch with parts from worn-out cars to build the perfect VW Rat Rod. Don’t expect the finished product to look perfect. In fact, most well-built Rat Rods look like they can fall apart at any moment.

How to Build a VW Rat Rod From Scratch

If you have seen someone driving a VW Rat Rod, you already know how cool it looks. The chances are that you can’t wait to build your VW Rat Rod. Fortunately, building a VW Rat Rod from scratch is not as difficult as it sounds. You will enjoy every step. So, let’s get building.

✅Step 1: Find Old Beetles

You will need parts from old Beetles to build your VW Rat Rod. So, take your time to find a few old cars you can use for your project. An excellent place to check is the junkyard. If you can’t find old Beetles at your local junkyard, don’t fret. Several VW Rat rodding websites can help you find precisely what you are looking for.

Once you find a couple of old Beetles to choose from, select the ones that are not rusted and still have all the essential parts you need intact. Apart from old Beetles, you can also use mid-century Chevrolet pick-up trucks, early Chrysler Hemi engines, and ’30s- era Fords.

✅Step 2: Remove All the Essential Interior Parts From the Old Beetle

Now that you have a couple of old Beetles to work with, it’s time to get your hands dirty. Start with the interior parts. Remove the steering wheel, seats, fixtures, and other interior elements from the old cars. This step is necessary since many old Beetles are in pretty bad shape.

✅Step 3: Drain Gasoline From the Gas Tank and Have a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

As you will be doing a lot of welding, it’s best to drain all gasoline from the gas tanks before you get started. Also, always have a fire extinguisher nearby when working. To empty the gas tank, place a container under the drain cock. You can also remove one of the fuel lines and drain any gas remaining in the gas tank.

✅Step 4: Customize the Frame However You Want

VW Rat Rods are all about appearance. So, adjust the frame however you want it. To do that, start by measuring and marking the exact point where you want your vehicle’s new axles and wheels to be. From there, cut the frame to your desired length. A reciprocating saw is ideal for this task.

You can also improvise and build your frame. To do that, you will need 20 ft of rectangular steel tubing. Cut the tube into two halves and weld them together.

✅Step 5: Build From the Ground Up With Limited Materials

As is with other VW projects, you want to keep your budget under $3,000. Many Rat-Rodders manage to keep the total cost under $3,000 by using limited materials. You can also save big by looking for cheap parts on eBay or in the junkyard.

✅Step 6: Install the Latest Suspension Technology

While you want to keep your total cost as low as possible, avoid used shocks, axles, and suspension systems. Used suspension systems may not fit correctly.

✅Step 7: Weld the Body to the Frame

Now that you have a suspension system, it’s time to mount the body on the frame. You can use old truck bodies or modern fiberglass. Modern fiberglass is a popular choice because it’s easy to customize. Customize the body however you want and weld it to the frame.

✅Step 8: Install a New Engine or Rebuild the Existing One

When it comes to your Rat Rod’s engine, you can either install a new one or rebuild the existing engine. You don’t have to break the bank if you want to use a new engine. Look for affordable engine options. Many Rat-Rodders prefer an old Ford 302 or a Chevy 350.

✅Step 9: Install the Breaks and Tires

After installing the engine, turn your attention to the brakes and tires to make your Rat Rod as safe as possible. Also, remember to put in a seat and get driving.

Rat Rods Vs. Hot Rods Vs. Street Rods: What are the Differences

As mentioned earlier, there are different types of Hot Rods. A Hot Rod is a model of 1948 or earlier that has been modified to enhance its look and appearance. Hot Rods are designed for racing. Typically, the engine is usually exposed.

On the other hand, a Street Rod is a vehicle of 1948 or earlier that has undergone modifications to various aspects of the car to boost performance and appearance. Unlike the Hot Rod, Street Rod is not used for racing. Instead, it’s used for enjoyment. Another significant difference between a Street Rod and a Hot Rod is that Street Rods are more family-friendly.

We’ve already mentioned Rat Rods are a type of Hot Rod. A Rat Rod has undergone modification to imitate the early Hot Rods. However, Rat Rods have an unfinished appearance, unlike Hot Rods.

Find Top Quality Parts For Your VW Rat Rod Project

If you need top-quality parts for your VW Rat Rod project, check out Kairous, Inc. to find precisely what you are looking for.