So a new set of replacement thermostat flaps and and FI thermostat arrived from Awesome Powdercoat up in Vanlue, OH arrived and man it is nice.

Now VW stopped producing replacement thermostats decades ago, and the Mexican Beetles ended up using a much different, through still roughly compatible thermostat.
I wanted to reinstall what was stock for 79, and Awesome Powdercoat makes replacement original style thermostats for pre-1975 carb engines and the 75-79 FI era engines that have different heat characteristics.

The flaps and linkage are very nicely restored. I only wish my tins looked this good!

I also picked up a set of the internal cylinder head air deflectors to replace the very rusty ones. I’ll clean the originals up and repaint them for other engine use.

While not meant for Murbella, I did use this purchase to grab one of their modificed Hoover Bits that are supposed to fit EMPI/SCAT aftermarket shrouds better than the stock ones. I’ll swap this onto the 2019 New Build and use the hoover bit on that engine for Murbella, as sone previous owner removed hers.