113-701-037G VW Beetle & Ghia Complete Frame Head - 1949-1965

Complete Frame Head Assembly – 113-701-037G 98-5225-B

The 113-701-037G is a vital component for any frame-off restoration involving an early Beetle or Ghia. Over decades, the frame head is often compromised by "bottoming out" or rust localized under the fuel tank area. A weakened frame head can lead to wandering steering, improper camber/caster settings, and catastrophic suspension failure. This complete unit allows a fabricator to cut away the compromised front section of the tunnel and weld in a factory-spec replacement.

This assembly includes the lower plate and the internal reinforcements necessary to support the weight of the front end and the stresses of steering input.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility

VW Beetle (Standard & Convertible):

• 1949, 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965

VW Karmann Ghia:

• 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965

Product Highlights & Features

• Weld-Ready Surface: Arrives with a protective shipping coating that is easily removed for clean, high-penetration welding to the existing chassis tunnel.

• Precision Bolt Holes: The mounting holes for the front beam are pre-stamped in the factory locations, ensuring your front axle sits square and true once installed.

• Internal Bulkheading: Includes the internal stiffeners required to prevent the tunnel from twisting under heavy braking or cornering loads.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 113-701-037G

• Material: Heavy-Duty Mild Steel

• Application: Chassis Repair / Front Axle Mounting

• Compatibility: King/Link-Pin Front Ends Only

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Use a Chassis Jig: Frame head replacement is a major structural repair. It is highly recommended to use a chassis jig or a straight front-axle beam as a guide during welding to ensure the new head is perfectly centered and leveled relative to the rear torsion housing.

• Check the Napoleon Hat: When the frame head is removed, it is the perfect time to inspect the Chassis Bulkhead (Napoleon Hat). If the frame head is rusted, the bulkhead usually is too; replacing both simultaneously ensures a lifetime of structural stability.

• Rust Prevention: After welding is complete, coat the interior of the new frame head and the junction welds with a high-quality cavity wax or rust-inhibiting primer to prevent moisture from trapped inside the enclosed box section.