Ghia front end sever shaking

[3562RS]

My '71 Ghia has developed a severe front end shaking between roughly 40 to 50 mph. It's smooth below and above those speeds. Between those speeds it can get violent so I won't drive it. I have 5X15 wheels, 165X15 tires and KYB shocks. Any ideas? Thanks

[Luccia at Pelican Parts]

We need to see pictures of your Ghia!

As far as the vibration. I'd think it's related to a suspension component. Check them out to make sure they look alright. I'm not too familiar with those VW's, but that's the first place I would start. I'd also be curious about the condition of the tires. You can swap your front and rear tires around to see if it may go away. I have seen some threads where people complain about vibration with some suggestions to replace the steering dampner.

[rockerarm]

Hi.
I'm sure you have had people tell you of the many things that can cause this concern.
This speed was the range that the first generation super beetles shimmied at. I know your ghia doesn't share the same front end as the super, but wanted to key in on something here. When I was at the dealers when the super beetles, as well as your ghia, were new we had many of these cars (super beetles) that had this shimmy during that speed. The cars were still under warranty so it was assumed nothing was worn out. Lots of time with this concern and in the super beetle's case usually new tires cured the shimmy, but only temporary as once the tire developed some wear it started again. What was the root of many of the super's shimmy was primarily the track control arm bushings developing wear, as well as the early ball joints.
Back to the ghia. I would use a methodical diagnostic process here. If you are doing this yourself, I would try rotating the tires front to rear. Obviously inspect the tires for wear or even possibly missing weights. Disconnect the steering damper and work it thru its travel and feel for an air pocket. Disconnect the shocks at the top and do the same. You can also work the tie-rods from side to side (as if turning) an visually look at them (all four). Also by using a large channel locks (12-16") you can squeeze the tie rod end and visually look for up and down play.
It should also be noted here to look at the front end for rusty beam, bent beam from a previous collision, lowered car, damaged adjusters, missing parts, etc. Are your wheels stock? The later cars had rotors that centered the wheel better onto the rotor.
A visual inspection of the four ball joint boots, if torn might suggest time for their replacement. There is a process to check ball joints for wear but many don't have the tool.
Hope this helps, Bill..