1969 Volkswagen Bug owned by Charles Self

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Issue

June 2023

Owner

Charles Self

Ride

Nos Bug
(69 VW Bug)

Meaning Behind the Name

Has Nitrous

Photographer

Nick Means

Ride Details

Original Cost

$8500.00

Build Cost

$10.000

What was the inspiration?

Just always enjoyed something fast and different.

How long did it take you to build?

2 years

How long have you been building?

It never ends you always think of something else that you want to do to it.

Club Affiliations

Founder and President of the Empty Pockets Cruisers from Hilliard,Ohio 43026

Your future plans?

Maybe add a turbo later on.

Vehicle history

It had a chevy small block 327 in it at first with nos,but changed it to a 383 stroker with 2 stage nos.one kit is capable of 400 horse on the plate,and a 500 horse pro fogger injection kit.

Thanks to

Mike Self,and Mike Kruez along with Tony Long Sr. Andy Canale ,and Kenny Carr

Previous Rides

1967 Camaro ss original with 350 small block chevy and 4 speed. !972 Datsun 260Z with a sbc 406 and 250 shot of nos. and a 1979 Ford F150 with 460 bb and nos.

Engine Details

Make

383 Stroker 1975

Cylinders

Displacement

We used a 1982 Toyota 2 wheel drive truck frame and installed the engine up front on bug

Engine Mods

took 350 sbc and bored to a 383 stroker,and added the nos plate along with a injection kit making it a 2 stage nos kit.

Engine Add Ons

400 horse nos plate,and had a injection kit made for the 2nd stage nos.

Chrome or polish

Chrome valve covers and air breather

Driveline Details

Clutch flywheel

27 tooth flywheel

Torque Converter

Hughes 3500

Transfer Case

350 turbo

Axle

ford 9 in

Gears

411

Chassis Details

Chassis

we used a 1982 toyoya 2 wheel drive frame.

Mods to Frame

Frame has been tied

Frame Builder

Mike Self and Mike Kruez

Drop or lift inches

N/a

Spindles

mosler

Compressor Info

10 1/2 to 1

Chrome, Paint, or Polish

car was painted by Kenny Carr from Hilliard,Ohio using a 2006 Lambo Tangerine Orange

Wheels Details

Front Wheel Type

Weld

Rear Wheel Type

Weld

Front Wheel Size

15"

Rear Wheel Size

15"

Front Tire Size

185/80/15

Rear Tire Size

31x16/5x15

Paint Details

Color

Tangerine Orange

Paint Type

PPG

Graphics Description

Green unknown true color flames pained on hood and door

Painted By

Kenny Carr

Graphics By

Kenny Carr

Body Details

Channeled

Frame tied

Hood

Fiber glass tilt front end

Grille

fiber glass

Body Mods

Custom paint and wheelie bars

Body Mods by

Kenny Carr and Andy Canale

Interior Details

Dashboard

Fiber glass

Gauges

Equis

Steering Wheel

Grant

Shifter

b&m

Seats

racing

Tint Percent

35%

Trunk or Bed

trunk is storage for fuel cell

Upholstery Description

Black and orange with Green seat belts

Upholstery Description

added green purge lights

Upholstery By

done by self

In the June 2023 issue of Gauge Magazine, we delve into the captivating story of Charles Self’s 1969 Volkswagen Bug. Nicknamed the “Nos Bug,” this vintage Bug boasts a formidable nitrous system that sets it apart from the rest. From its striking appearance to its powerful engine and custom modifications, let’s explore the fascinating journey behind this remarkable automotive creation.

The Journey of the Nos Bug: Charles Self’s affinity for speed and individuality led him to embark on an extraordinary two-year build. The original cost of $8,500 was just the beginning, as Charles invested an additional $10,000 to transform this Bug into a true powerhouse. The inspiration for this project stemmed from his desire for something fast and unique, driving him to create a one-of-a-kind road beast.

Unleashing the Power: Under the hood, the Nos Bug features a 383 Stroker engine, derived from a 1975 model, that packs a punch. Charles took a 350 small-block Chevy and bored it to a 383 stroker, resulting in an impressive power output. To enhance its performance even further, a two-stage nitrous kit was added, providing an exhilarating boost of horsepower. With a 400-horsepower nos plate and a custom injection kit for the second stage, the Nos Bug is a force to be reckoned with on the open road.

Custom Modifications and Eye-Catching Aesthetics: Every detail of the Nos Bug has been carefully considered and executed to perfection. The frame of a 1982 Toyota 2-wheel-drive truck was utilized, ensuring a solid foundation for this extraordinary ride. Custom wheelie bars and a fiber glass tilt front end add to its aggressive appearance. The car’s stunning Tangerine Orange paint job, expertly applied by Kenny Carr, catches the eye and turns heads wherever it goes. Green flames, skillfully painted on the hood and doors, add a touch of true artistry to this remarkable Bug.

Interior Comfort and Style: Inside the Nos Bug, you’ll find a well-appointed cockpit designed for both comfort and functionality. A fiber glass dashboard, Equus gauges, and a Grant steering wheel create an immersive driving experience. The racing seats provide ample support during high-speed adventures, and the black and orange upholstery, complemented by green seat belts, adds a unique touch. Charles even added green purge lights to enhance the interior ambiance.

The Legacy and Future of the Nos Bug: As the founder and president of the Empty Pockets Cruisers from Hilliard, Ohio, Charles Self’s love for cars extends beyond his personal projects. The Nos Bug is a testament to his passion for automotive excellence and his dedication to creating unforgettable rides. Looking ahead, Charles envisions adding a turbocharger to further elevate the Bug’s performance capabilities.

Conclusion: Charles Self’s 1969 Volkswagen Bug, the Nos Bug, is a true automotive masterpiece. From its nitrous-powered engine and custom modifications to its vibrant Tangerine Orange exterior and thoughtfully designed interior, this Bug represents the perfect blend of power, style, and individuality. As Charles continues to push the boundaries of automotive creativity, the legacy of the Nos Bug lives on as an icon of speed and exhilaration.