Original Vs Reproduction Fenders?

[72vwtype2]

What are some of the differences between original and reproduction fenders? How do you know you have an original fenders? I have a 58 beetle? How would I know its a proper fender for the year?

Thanks

[Bruce]

Do your front fenders have a 3/4\" dia metal tube for the wires to go from the inner fender to the headlight bucket?  If they do, you have original fenders.  None of the repros have the wire tubes.

[72vwtype2]

One of the fronts has thewire tubing. When did they stop using the tubing and start using the rubber?

How about the back fenders? Is there anything specific to look for?

Thanks.

[Bruce]

58 was the last year for the wiring tube.  Which side of yours is correct?

For rears, look for the 3 drain holes at the rear trailing edge.  Also look at where the tail lights are positioned.  The repro guys can't get the holes for the lights in the right place.  The lower outside rear fender shapes vary too; down by the tip of the bumper.

[72vwtype2]

My right fender seems to be correct. It has the tube (somewhat bent).

 The left might be correct as well, except that the hole on top of the fender is too far back and the hole appears somewhat hacked up. It might be an oval fender that some one has patched up? I will have to take a closer look underneath.

The rear fenders do not have the drain holes and are flimmsy. I never thought they were original.

Thanks.

[ehos]

Not 100% sure, but they should be 'dimpled' where the bolts go.   I forget the year when the dimples stopped (someone can chime in?)

 

[nivag]

The dimpled fenders went up to late 59 originally, I believe. But some of the recent repros have even copied that detail.