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1952 VW Beetle Split Window

1952 VW Beetle Split Window vehicle description

VW Beetle 1952

The 1952 VW Bug or VW Beetle Split window has an unique design. The split window in the back is timeless and it provides the car with a very high value. Late-1951 changes used on VW Beetle 1951 models included strengthened jacking point on the VW Beetle  and the delention of wheel bolts from the tool kit. In November, the rear seat bolsters that had been used in the Export Sedan since 1949 were discontinued and the exhaust valves were improved. Starting in December, new 6-volt 0.6-watt dashboards indicator lamps were used. The Volkswagen Beetle underwent numerous changes during the 1952 calendar year, but not all at once.

Main changes in 1952

  • Glass vent windows added, vent flaps in front-quarter body panels discontinued.
  • Heating control by rotary knob, previously a pull-knob.
  • T style decklid handle introduced, previously a loop type.
  • Two lamp brake and taillights, previously one brake and stoplight.
  • Window regulator now makes 3 ½ turns as previously 10 ½ turns.
  • Glove compartment gets glove box lid.
  • Indicator swith moved to steering column from dashboard.
  • 5.60 x 15 inch tyres replace 5.00 x 16 inch tyres.
  • 2nd, 3rd, and 4th gears become fully synchronised, replacing the “Crash Box”.
  • Crankshaft end play adjusted by 3 shims.
  • Six leaved torsion bars increase suspension travel.
  • New instrument panel from October.
  • 26PCI(or 28PCI?) carby in late 52.
  • Transmission has 3 synchro gears (2nd, 3rd, 4th) replacing old crash box.
  • Window crank reduced from 10 ½ to 1 ¼ turns.
  • Vent windows.
  • Vent flaps in quarter panels discontinued.
  • Rotary heater knob introduced.
  • T type engine lid handle introduced.
  • Two brake/taillights replace single unit.
  • Interior light moved to left side door pillar.
  • Bigger, stronger bumpers.
  • Self parking wipers.
  • Crank starter hole discontinued on all models.
  • Widened body side trim Oval horn grill to front.
  • Redesigned “Pope’s nose” number plate light.

VW Beetle 1952 chassis numbers: 318 830 – 428 156

The chassis numbers for the 1952 VW Beetle are between 318 830 – 428 156.

Engine 1952 VW Bug

4-cyl. 1131cc/25hp 1bbl with manual transmission.

Read our air-cooled VW Beetle engine guide for additional information.

1952 VW Beetle parts

Are you looking for parts for your 1952 VW Beetle? On this page you can submit a parts request that is send to multiple VW Beetle parts sellers (Paruzzi & VW Heritage). They will provide you with their price (without obligation to buy the parts AND there are no hidden charges).

1952 VW Beetle for sale

Interested in a 1952 VW Beetle for sale? Visit our forum thread VW Beetle for sale and have a look at all the ads submitted by other members of the Aircooled Community. If you are interested in a 1952 VW Beetle for sale, you can always contact the owner by sending him / her a private message or by reacting on the ad itself.

How to restore a VW Beetle

Are you looking to restore a 1952 VW Bug? Here you can find some useful documents that might help you.