Tom's Baja Bug

VW Beetle Repair
and Photos

 

Body/Paint

FAQ 97

Question: I just bought a 69 Beetle with a BMW engine installed in it. There is a roar in the left rear of the little thing...especially when I put it in neutral. It comes and goes but mostly comes...is this a bearing or the axle going out to the wheel...or? ...Or?....OR?...

I'm a "renewed " Bug fellow but now I'm 51 and don't remember much of my youthful years fixing these problems. Please let me know something when you find the time. I thank you very much for your time and info!

Answer: A BMW engine? What kind of BMW engine?

Bad wheel bearings roar, and it gets louder with speed of the car. It should not be effected (much) by what gear you are in, or by the engine rpms.

CV joints tend to 'knock' and the speed of the knocking increases as the speed of the car goes up.

If you're going to do the work yourself see my book reviews, tool info, and mail order parts suppliers:

http://laudeman.com/bug_links.html

http://laudeman.com/bug_tools.html

http://laudeman.com/bug_orders.html

I think I forgot to mention it on the tools page, but disposable latex gloves make car work much more fun. I think I pay about $12 for a 100 box at the auto supply store.

BTW, I'm 43, and I still work on cars, but I'm determined to enjoy it.

keywords: all faq97

 
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