NEED TO KNOW
Old Volkswagens gained a great reputation for reliability back in the day and, if you keep up with servicing and maintenance, they will generally go on forever. With a reputation for reliability however, most people think that their air-cooled VW will just keep on going without any regular maintenance. This is not the case. Follow these steps to lessen the possibility of breaking down by the side of the road.
Thanks must go to Johnny from Vintage-Deluxe (www.vintage-deluxe.com), who was kind enough to let us photograph these checks on their ‘63 Westy.
Tools required: ... 10, 13mm sockets; 21mm spark plug removal tool; feeler gauges; flat screwdriver; extension bar; ratchet; long nose pliers; test lamp
Materials used: .. grease
Skill Level ........... 2
Time taken ......... 4 Hours
Cost DIY ............. From £50 for parts and materials.
Cost Pro.............. £200 approx parts and labour.
01 Change spark plugs
The photos here are on a Beetle, as it was easier to photograph, but any Type 1 style engine is very similar, with only minor changes on the ignition parts. Looking in the engine bay to both sides of the engine, locate the spark plug leads exiting from the tinware above the cylinder heads. Remove the plug leads at the spark plug ends by giving them a firm tug.
