Tom's Baja Bug

VW Beetle Repair
and Photos

 

Body/Paint

FAQ 101

Question: Maybe you can help me, I tuned up my bug and it is firing in all cylinders, however it wont start. The starter is not dragging and the coil seems to be ok. Any ideas?

Thank you

Answer: Two things (in general) make the car run: spark and fuel.

If you have spark at the plugs, then there are only two spark related issues: plug wires in the wrong order and the timing being off a mile.

My FAQ14 might help:

FAQ 14

Line up #1, and then make sure the firing order matches how you have the wires on the dist. cap.

If you had fuel before the tune up, you probably still have it. Fuel pumps do tend to suddenly fail, but it is too much coincidence that the pump would fail right when you tune up. The fuel test is to put (very carefully) about one tablespoon of gas down the carb throat. Stand back, and crank the engine. If it runs for a few seconds then dies, you have a fuel problem.

Remember to never put your head anywhere near the carb when cranking the car. A backfire can happen anytime, but is very likely when things are messed up. A backfire is a small explosion.

Do you have the "How to Keep Your Volkswagen Alive" book? It's great, and covers the causes of Bugs that don't run (amoung other things). My review is at:

http://laudeman.com/bug_b_1562614800.html

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