Newby to site

[rhondabragg]

Hi. I'm Rhonda. Just bought a 1973 Lovebug. I am gutting it and any advice would be helpful. I am looking for windows for it, front, back, 2 sides. Also decided to pull insulation out because of leaky windows and mildew. This will not affect the structure...correct? Also need a 3 burner stove, fridge and nice cushions. Please lead me in the right direction.

[Jon in AZ]

Welcome, Rhonda!

A good set of pictures of your new treasure, inside and out, would help a lot with recommendations.

I'm assuming the insulation is Ensolite, a spongy foam with a textured vinyl surface… A lot can be done to save it, and replacing it with something else is a big job. Since it is closed cell foam, the mildew is only on the surface, so it can be cleaned up. Loose sections can be reglued, gaps can be filled with latex caulk and textured to match, and the whole thing can be painted. I'd recommend at least trying to save it before you tear it out. The insulation is not structural, but it is important for controlling temperature, noise, light, and condensation. Bare fiberglass walls you do not want!

Operable windows can usually be removed, cleaned up, and reinstalled with new butyl and be as good as new. The only one(s) that sometimes need to be replaced are the fixed plexiglass window(s) in the front and (in some eggs) the back.

Before anything else, make sure your running gear is up to par (tires, bearings, axle, brakes, frame, and lights).

Best wishes with your new project!

[RogerDat]

Pictures! We love pictures. Add me to the list that says clean and fix the ensolite rather than try to find something to replace it.


Stuff is really tough, can be cleaned very well. I recall reading that it was originally designed for NASA.

Mine was shades of grey with mold or mildew splotches. LA Totally Awesome cleaner, scrub brush, some rags and a rinse bucket (lots or rinse buckets actually) took care of that. Wife pronounced it clean which is good enough for me. Dog and I think it is good would be a couple of steps below that level.

Every window was a bit "rain challenged" in one way or another. Took awhile to figure out each issue, along with pulling the windows out and replacing the butyl tape putty that they are bedded into that seals them to body. It can take some time and detective work but it is soooo worth it in the end.

[Donna D.]

Windows and axle are several of the items that are the most expensive to replace. WE can help you! Don't gut AND throw out before asking for help... we're here to help


OMG don't remove the insulation just yet...