Volkswagen: Bug front end, torsion bar suspension, strut suspension

Question
I was driving my 71 Bug today and noticed a humming sound coming from the front end. This sound quickly became a loud popping that I could feel through the steering wheel. This popping is minimal whe driving in a straight line, but is awful in a turn. I took the wheels off and looked at the brakes and bearings but everything looked ok. I have no idea what to do next, please help.
                            Thanks, Alex.

Answer
Hi Alex,

I'd suggest not driving this car for your safety until you find the cause.  Don't worry,  we'll find the problem.

First, please let me know if you have:

a) A VW Service manual (and what type, so I can refer page numbers)

b) Is this a '71 Super Beetle or standard Beetle?   This is very important because the Super Beetle has "STRUT SUSPENSION" and the regular beetle has "TORSION BAR SUSPENSION".

Once I have that data, we can get you back on the road.

Thanks for asking, and look forward to hearing from you.


Ron