When I bought my bug, I expected some electrical issues. I’ve had a few. From issues with my headlights to some issues with basic grounds. You can come to expect these kinds of things on cars approaching 45 or more years old.
Another issue I encountered on my own beetle was an intermittent starter issue. In this post, I’ll break down how the starter system works electrically and mechanically since this topic has come up a few times with a few friends in recent days.
I’ve started a new project for my bug this winter. I think I’ve committed to building a new engine. It’s a costly project, and to save some money where I can, I’d like to be able to re-use some parts from an engine that I acquired.
“A gentleman does not motor around after dark.’
I used to think that quote from Joseph Lucas was reserved for Lucas automotive electrics – but I nearly experienced it myself. I could have been my very own prince of darkness.
Continue reading “Repair: A gentleman does not motor around after dark”
This weeks article is a rather short technical idea than a full fledged project. It’s about keeping your brakes adjusted on your Bug, Ghia, Thing, Buggy, etc. If you’ve ever adjusted your brakes before, you are aware the the issues of the brake adjustment stars. The stars typically corrode in place, so we remove them, clean them up in the wire wheel. We typically apply grease or anti-seize compound to ensure they remain free (for a while at least). The next step is to adjust the brakes so they just slightly drag on the drums. Take it for a test drive, feels great doesn’t it! But wait a minute, by the second time you drive it you need to adjust your brakes again – whats going on here!?
Ok, this seems like this will be a simplistic article. It sort-of is, everything is basic, but you need to be very conscious and meticulous to prevent trouble from finding you. There are a few nuances about doing an oil change on your air-cooled engine that you may or not be aware of, things that I have noticed while working on the air cooled wonder. Perhaps I’m too picky about how to do simple things. The devil is usually in the details.
