Verkehrszentrum München

 Over the Easter weekend, I visited the Verkehrszentrum in Munich. Here are a few photos I took while I was there.

Brake, steering and clutch week

After a long wait, I was finally able to dedicate an entire week to my project. I made significant progress on the steering system, installing new tie rod ends and refurbishing the steering box. I also galvanized and painted the steering components for a clean, rust-free finish. To complete the braking system, I bent and screwed in new brake lines and finished the accelerator pedal with a new cable. I also replaced the clutch with a new set. The next steps involve an oil change, brake fluid refill, and engine tuning. I'm planning an assembly weekend with some friends to help out and hopefully take it for a spin!

Yokohama - Flat 4 tour

Eight years ago we visited Flat4 in Tokyo. Back then, their HQ was still in the city, along with a bodyshop and garage. That trip was a total game-changer for me, and I've been dying to go back ever since. Well, this year, I finally made it back to Japan, and I had to stop by Flat4 again. They've moved to Yokohama now, but it was totally worth it. I even did some shopping and left a little memory on their Instagram page.

Preparation for the marriage

Over the weekend, I put up the body seal with little help of Sika glue, adjusted the clutch pedal, and installed the starter. The pan's all set to meet the body! I also gave the engine a good cleaning and tune-up so we can start the marriage with it.
A few quick fixes left: I need to replace the clutch and rear shocks. The parts are on their ways, so that shouldn't take long. Can't wait to take this thing for a spin with my dad!

Insulation and brake updates

Alright, so I ripped out the main brake cylinder, pedals, steering rods, and those pesky brake tubes from the front end. It was time to prep the pan for some serious upgrades. Over the weekend, I slapped on an insulation mat. Not only does it look badass, but it's a game-changer for noise and heat. Next up, I dropped in the new dual circuit master cylinder and some shiny chrome pedals. Still gotta sort out the brakes, steering, and clutch before I can drop in the engine and reunite the body. Can't wait!

Body is off again

Over the weekend, we removed the body from the pan. I cleaned up the chassis and took off the single-circuit brake cylinder, steering, and pedals. I did some touch-ups on the paint and started getting ready for the double-circuit setup.

Ragtop mechanism being assembled

I finished the rear querters

Little zinc galvanization

Some minor stuff from the last few weeks

This past weekend, I made some headway on tackling the bug! I focused on a few smaller jobs to get things rolling. First, I installed new engine bay seals and added soundproofing to the doors and quarter panels. I even experimented with some DIY galvanization (fun fact: stay tuned for a future post on that!).

The ragtop mechanism is also getting some TLC. I've already started the refurbishment process, but I needed to order some parts to finish the job. Even though it's not pictured yet, I'm happy to report that it's already functional.

Looking ahead, next week's agenda is jam-packed! We'll be removing the body, installing the new seals and soundproofing throughout, replacing the front axle parts, and then finally, putting the body back on for good.

I have to continue this process on the other half as well

The colors are matching perfectly

I dry fit before disassembly, it opens and closes smoothly now

Some Gucci touch on the interior