Gary Haugley who was the founder and former owner of B&R Buggie in Oceanside, CA purchased this 1974 VW Thing from the Vessels family two years ago. It is one of three stretched Things that were built by the Trim Shop in Arizona.
Gary spent about two years restoring the Thing in memory of the late Frank “Scoop” Vessels who previously owned it. He rebuilt the engine to 1915 cc, with duel Kadron carbs. Rebuilt the transmission with stock gearing. Installed all new brakes, shocks and repaired the wiring. Replaced the rusted out floor and rust issues. Installed new tires with original aluminum Jackman star wheels which he rebuilt and had re-polished. Stretched the rear trailing arms 2 inches to be centered in the rear wheel well. Installed four new PRP seats and had the rear bench covered to match. The seats are all on movable tracks. Installed new carpet and top. All body work and paint was by Cory from Terrys auto body in Oceanside. With a lot of help from Gary’s friends and family it was finished in about 2 years.
Photo from when Gary first bought Scoops 6 seater VW Thing.
