ALL valuable information. Took me 30+ years to learn all this stuff. KIDS, listen to THIS advice, everyone around will think you're a genius! You'll be driving your ACVW, while your buddies are broken down, waiting on parts. Buy once, cry once.
Thank you for your knowledge. It's been 4 decades since I had a VW. Times change, and parts and oil change. I am doing a father, son build. 1970 VW Beetle AutoStick, 1600 1.6 it's all original. It's been sitting for almost 4 decades.
Great job with all the helpful hints, Mike. You have the experience, so to me that's pretty much gospel. On those tiny Bug taillights... I remember when my dad bought his new 1960 tomato-red Beetle, he was concerned about those lights and the ability for drivers behind to see the brake lights. So he pretty much invented the third stop light. He bought a 5" diameter chrome-housed red stop light at the auto parts store, used black stick-on letters that read "STOP," wired it to the stop circuit and mounted it on the center of the venting above the rear deck lid. Nobody ever rear-ended us in that car and we were running it in busy traffic on Long Island, NY. Those taillights and the lack of gas gauge were a couple of reasons that Dad traded in our '60 for a new '62 Bug. I still have his old stop light... wish I had the tomato-red 1960 Beetle.
Oil level on the increase I wish I knew about that a few years ago. I screwed up big time and let my fuel pump leak internally into the oil and washed out my engine bearings. that's a very good tip. It will never happen again ( I hope) I have learned much watching your videos and others. I love these little cars thanks for the info.
That last point is a good one. Drove my car daily for 10 years. It was a constant battle with maintenance. Got an Accord now. Rebuilding carbs this weekend.
If you want a classic, antique economy car, get a Citroën 2CV - it makes the Volkswagens look like used BMW’s in comparison. They hardly ever have problems, and anything that goes wrong can be fixed by yourself, with a toolbox, within 2 hours.
@@stoneylonesome4062 You point out a Truth. There are several cars built in Post-War Europe that rival the VW Type 1, the Citroen being just one. Even Bulgaria had a rear engine air-cooled car that was bombproof. The early Saab 3-cyl was also excellent. Germany got the benefit of American money to rebuild more than any other country. Volswagen also got the door opened for them to export to the US market. The rest is history.
I have followed all of these tips for my recent Bug build and cost wise it's all pretty much the same as a "stock" setup but the performance and longevity is insanely better. Fantastic general set of tips to keeps these VWs alive longer. Keep up the great content Mike!
One of the reasons why premium fuel works better in an air-cooled engine is that it is slower burning and is less prone to uncontrolled combustion (pinging/detonation). With today's fuels usually being blended combinations with alcohol I prefer to use nylon lined fuel injection hose. The quality of parts is now an issue for all brands of cars - there is an amazing amount of poorly finished new parts. Your advice to carefully inspect and be picky is spot on. I got blacklisted from a major online parts supplier - they were upset that I was returning so many defective parts! I would say that if you are going to daily drive a classic to go ahead and spend the money on fuel injection. Good advice on keeping the compression in the 8's for reliability. If you are building a fresh engine and going up in displacement, then I would also suggest freeway flyer gears to lower your highway rpms. Disc brakes and bright taillights are a must if you are driving with modern traffic.
6 volt and 12 volt bulbs are of the same wattage, so 6 volts does not mean dim lights, as long as you are using the correct bulbs. If you suffer from dim lights, you probably need to clean you sockets and any wiring connectors/splices. Also, make sure your ground strap from the engine to the body is in good condition and has nice clean tight connections. 6 volts are more sensitive to dirty connections, as amps are higher. When you double amps, you square resistance.
2:36 this fuel line is great if high quality, the problem is that there is fuel line like this out there , which will look fine from the inside but the rubber part will be cracked ( and fuel will seep trough the mesh ) .
always must be 5mm to fit correctly. In the US there is no 5mm hose. only 1/4 inch. Europe you have more options. High pressure injection 5mm hose is good too.
Hi Mike, I am still running the original hoses in my fuel tank, new trans rebuilt engine 1970 Beetle. I will be swapping them out soon and use the German Braided ones, along with disc breaks and returning the Beetle to stock height so I can drive with a passenger and not just the dog. I just got rid of my points, and went Elec. So far so good, I love my Beetle "The Omen" and will keep improving what I have. Thank you for all your videos I am enjoying them. I have a friend with a 73 SB AS and he has nothing but problems with EMPI's work as of late, FYI Quality Control issues as of late. I will say steer clear of EMPI except the rims. EMPI hasn't been the same since the 90's. Mike super important at least in a Beetle, don't forget the Heater Box Seals they go around the hose and in the hole super necessary anyone who is missing those get on it. I had to get mine they were missing at Avery's VW in Kelso, WA. a couple hours away from me in Seattle.
some of the empi stuff is OK not great and an option. I usually get other stuff with some exceptions. They have about the only disc bug brake kits. they do work ok. They have worked out the bugs pretty much.
Lots of good information here. We have a gas station that has one pump with Premium Non Ethanol gas. I run with that and get better gas mileage plus I don't have to worry about all the crap that happens with ethanol fuel.
Great job Mike, the big revolution to me was the Castrol motor oil. I’m going to try it as I’ve always been fighting heating issues with my motor and Valvoline VR1
You got me thinking a lot about dual carbs vs single carbs , you are right , I frequently fiddle with dual carbs and plugged jets regardless of good filtering . My 1600 cc with Brosol H30/31 was really great back then . hmmmm.
yea that is cool. Probably formulated like Kendall which has more Zddp. Have not used VR1 since about 1981 or 2. and everyone I know blew them off at the same time. all the racers Everyone.
Well that was a revelation about the gas and oil. I'm so grateful that we have electronic ignitions available. Chinese parts are what is available and affordable any more.
Good suggestions! New here....reminiscing about my '69 that I haven't owned for 50 years. My biggest issues were poor spark plug wires absorbing moisture on rainy days. Heater control "cables" rusting through -- I should have lubed them ...with something. And not knowing to adjust the valves -- until I burned an exhaust. If I still owned it, I would put in an electronic ignition and switch to an alternator. Have fun!
Ethanol is the issue for fuel hoses and fuel pumps. Most available hoses are ethanol "resistant' to varying degree's. 100% ethanol proof is available, but pricey and likely the stuff OEM's are using on new vehicles. This is the only hose I now use and after 4 years it shows no signs of degradation or hardening. All fuels here in the UK now have at least 5% ethanol so it's essential insurance in my opinion.
No that's incorrect about a minimum of 5% ethanol. E5 indicates that the petrol has UP TO 5% ethanol. Some "E5" has almost no ethanol. Tesco still sell a 99 RON petrol called Momentum.
2 things about the fuel system, don't install plastic filters on the fly in the engine bay. Don't use the cloth covered fuel hoses. They look nice and original but you can't see any cracks in the rubber. The reinforced high pressure hoses for fuel injected cars are more reliable. The rubbish rubber material today is so worse and dangerous. Protect from fire. Made in Germany today is crap produced in China and sold for much money and it's not worth it. Points capacitors from Beru are more reliable than the crappy Bosch made in China. This are my experience last 20 years run 4 aircooled VWs.
DONT EVER INSTALL 3 piece glass filters in the engine bay.....Plastic has never been a problem for anyone I know. Shops who have been in business 40 years......Just saying do as you please. In Europe I hear that have different fuel formulas that effect the German hose. Here German hose is the best. The rubber stuff really is a problem. But if you can get 5mm neoprene rubber material that is fine. Here in the us it is only 1/4 inch which is not the correct size..
@@Mikefngarage I agree, I installed the filter near the Tank and replaced or cleaned the metal fuel line. I had never problems with clogged jets. Plastic filters and hot engine bay can be critical. One I had installed fall off from the hose after a longer term of use. The diameter of the hose connection was shrinked. It can be also a bad quality of the filter housing. Thank you for the interesting Video. Best regards from Germany.
@@chrisn6304 I have had the metal fuel line from front to rear loose a tiny rust chunk and clogged my jet. also had the metal fuel line from the front of the engine to the engine compartment do the same (Customers cars). WE have been running the plastic ones on the pressure side of the fuel pump for 40+ years. Personally I have never seen or heard of one break probably over the years 30+ thousand cars......with German hose AND clamps. With every tune up we replaced the hose and fuel filter on the pressure side as well. That is why I say here in the US. Europe you might have different problems. I think over there they REALLY want to get rid of Petrol engines. worse than California that is why they make the fuel so acidic so it eats up hoses.
THe plastic filters are ok, if you get a reputable brand and not mystery Chinese. When I worked for Briggs and Stratton I tested fuel filters. Some of the Chinese ones had a 6% leak rate even though they claimed they were 100% inspected. Briggs required less than 1 in 10 million failure rate on fuel system parts. 5 good filters (ITW made in Illinois) withstood over 500 psi on the burst test. Good control over the plastic welding process is key, poorly welded filters might pass a leak check, but pop open after a few thermal cycles.
Do you have any videos on how to keep your vw from overheating? Or how to have your engine tuned up correctly, like the engine being able to go 60 or 70 miles per hour?
my 73 super can sit for a month and I don't even have to touch the gas pedal for it to start. here in Missouri, the winters are pretty cold, and the summers are hot. Helga just doesn't care; she is ready to go anytime. When it gets really cold, I use her to jump start Kias and Hondas. I agree with everything you said about long life but fuel. I run half and half
Whats your take on Shell Rotella oil? I hear that the oil in the T4 or 5 are great for old engines because there is lots of zinc added. Because they are engineered for diesel engines, they can withstand the temperatures.
Bosch is making some stuff like spark plugs in Russia and they aren’t that good anymore. I like to use a oil with high zinc level or add zinc to it for my vw’s engines.
Thank you for the affirmation of the new aluminum case. I regret not buying one sooner- they just keep going up in price. I need to pull the trigger sooner than later and purchase one for my bus.
Fantastic! Saved this to my own collection of videos in a playlist as important sh!t to remember, lol. I'm glad to say I have done a lot of what things you have mentioned, and the bay runs very well. Just need some beach boys music and I'm happy. I'm not that old, but older stuff is much more fun. Blend of old and new ✨️ 👌 🏄♂️🌊🏄♀️
Learning a lot from you before I get my first air cooled vw this weekend (a 73 super beetle)I agree on the electric fuel pumps had one on a old ram charger never ran right with it
If I'm not running a rear apron or decklid will I have problems with cooling? I don't drive the bug too often, it's a 1600 with dual 34s. The engine sort of hangs off the transmission like a baja but it's a street car
Hi Mike. Hope you’re well? I’ve been told to use a high content zinc 30 weight mineral oil in old vw engines, as there are no detergents in it. I also hear that you are meant to use ‘newer oils’ with detergents like 20w50 etc, only if you have a full flow engine with removable filter, as it suspends the crap in the oil, which then get removed by the filter. A straight 30, is better for cooling but puts all the crud into the strainer, which you then clean out ever other oil change. What do you think? All the best.👍🏾🛠🇬🇧
Good video, the only thing that i wonder about is that if you're running 7.2:1 the engine is running such low temperatures that low octane fuel would not make any difference.
7.2 might run on regular fuel on cool weather. Especially if you have big valves and that low of compression. (lots of air fuel mix in the chamber) over cam would also do the same thing. For most people with stock valves and 7.2 the combustion pressure at say 90 degrees F...the engine combustion temp is still pretty high. then you ad the temp to the actual pressure and it is possible to ping. If your engine never pings on regular fuel and your total advance is at 28. you should be ok.
I don't know if they ever corrected the fit . Those gold gen-alt pulleys would just fall on . One of those came with the alt. and I threw it in the garbage ! If you don't have to beat it on the shaft = that boy ain't right . give it a year and it will rattle the key way.
best and easiest to jet is The EMPI egas. You can buy the carb without the manifold in AZ on some website for less than 150....Needs to be jetted for your engine though. Takes some time and commitment.
Your comment about Castrol was interesting...Project Farm did an extensive comparison of engine oils a year or two ago and the thing I remember about it was that, compared to other brands of oils of the same weight, Castrol seemed to have slightly higher viscosity. I wonder if that is why it works so well for you in your VWs. Have you ever tried Shell Rotella T4 in your VWs? I've only had an ACVW for a few years now and used Lucas Classic Car oil when I did an oil change but am debating what to use next. Other classic car channels I follow use Rotella for the higher zinc content.
Rotella is good oil and good option. I use t6 in all my diesel trucks. I have not tried it in my vws. because Castrol and Kendall work so well. From what I know the Zddp in Kendall is a little higher than castrol. But not available in all places. harder to find. I have not viscosity checked t4 in a vw. I would assume it would be better than VR1 because diesel engines break down oil like not tomorrow. The only reservation I have is that diesel oil is designed to mix with diesel fuel as it bypasses the rings. How does it mix with gasoline? I am not an oil chemist. so I stick with what I know that works.
According to my Vintage VW shop...the trouble with getting parts today is the fact that the older workforce in Brazil retired at Covid. Parts are still around/made but the quality that the older workforce knew how to build is not the same as the new stuff on the market. The old part supplies came to an end until the manufactures started up again after covid. 1900cc 1969 VW Dune Buggy
Some great helpful hints. Definitely lots of controversy about brands of oil. Been using Royal Purple in my 64 1776 for awhile now but it's $$$$ and hard to find. Might try Castrol next time. Thanks for the video!
hello Mike!! saludos desde Argentina!! QQ for you, we have no chance to get Lucas HD Oil Stabilizer here, but we can get Liqui Moly products, do you know if the Liqui Moly ViscoPlus + GTX 20W-50 will do the trick? I usually run my 1.2CC with GTX15W-40 but as the summer is coming I am thinking on swap it to ensure that ir runs as cooler as possible. Thanks in advance!
Im running a 1300cc dual port motor me and my dad rebuilt cam has been reprofiled a few degrees from stock. Using the empi street curve distributor, its still uses points and condensor. I use a module that replaces the condensor its called G-tech its south african made the builder tests it on his own cars too see if relaible for usage. So far no issues. All engin tins are replaced with newer plates. On my bug i have a stand off plates too keep my motor cool on long runs or when in traffic. Only thing i need too replace is my alternator. I do a weekly run through too see if everything is still good. Bosch coil in south africa is super expensive. Been using a cheap coil and never have issues
I had an empi for about 10 months. Over 9000 miles till an electronic short in my ignition switch behind the dash killed it. Now I'm trying an accuspark out of Europe. 3ohm coil with 38 tho spark plug gap. Got a little over 100 miles so far.
It's coming up 50 years since I bought my Beetle. Impressive video. Volkswagen aren't unreliable. They just require your attention. That's why it's called "The People's Car", the people could fix their own car. Originally, in the '30's, they'd give you a set of tools with a new car. Or so I heard. Aaaaand, My '72 Van still has the sticker on the gas flap. It says there in German to use Regular gas, 91 octane. Today's regular is only 87.
the only real reliability issue is the quality of parts is not as good as before. No more real Germán parts. only assembled in Germany. gas is lead free too. which runs hotter. need that premium.
Does the sticker say 91 RON or 91 octane? My 69 bus says 91 RON on the sticker, RON is what they use to rate fuel in Europe. 91 RON is the same as 87 octane.
@@danieljones2936 87 leaded fuel.....and they dont make that anymore. Without the lead they run hotter which means more pressure in the combustion chamber......PREMIUM....for todays fuel is a must.
should always run 91 unleaded. Remember the lead was in fuel in those days. which was part of the cooling system of a vw. They have hotter combustion so that = more pressure.
also the parts quality is not even the same as back in the day....no more REAL Germán parts. So the reliability is not near what it was back even 20 years ago.
Thank Mike for the great video!! I just had an engine builder build me a original 40hp and an 1835 and swore that Valvoline VR1 20-50 was the best oil. I am running an exterior oil cooler and with the 40 hp have not passed 160⁰. I have not installed the 1835 yet because I am waiting on heater boxes. Is the Casterol synthetic and does it matter? I am only using 91 0r 93 octane gas. Thanks again for a great video!
Castrol or Kendall Regular oil is the best. The synthetic may get too thin for the vw and cause leaks. Lots of guys that are newer use VR1....NOT ME anymore or any vw Older guru I know. Only the Young guys under 40 use it. Us older guys know better.
Agree on your oil choice! I’ve worked on loads of British classics and the Castrol works great for this era of European vehicles! Add some Lucas for good measure and change it at 3000 miles, tops. Great video and I’m tying to find a solid Bug up here in Washington. Had a ‘74 Bus but would love a Bug this time! Keep up the good work. Cheers!
Those cheap walmart grade crimp-on wire plugs, is definitely NOT doing anything for your reliability. Seen tons of engine issues with corroded, loose, or plain fallen off connectors. Either invest in commercial grade crimp tools and plugs, or go the cheap route and just solder it, then use some shrink tubing. They are also open to water moisture entering them which furthers corrosion. Personally I use a little butane powered soldering tool, very handy to not have to futz with extensioncords, or in the field fixes. Otherwise, lots of good tips.
I find 20/50 gets too thick in cold winter for starting and prefer castrol 15/40 as its flowing easier from startup but the 20/50 handles high temps sligjtly better.
Some great tips Mike ! I worked at a vw shop in the 80's in San Jose...all we used for oil was Castrol GTX 30 heavy Duty....great stuff ! What do you think of the old CB Performance external oil filter brackets on the oil pump ?
Yeah the aluminum case thing is fairly new. Well they did have them back in the old days. Scat performance made one and they were very very expensive. But now they're almost the same price with these autolineia ones
So I own a corvair, it's a similar machine but obviously made by Chevy. They are reliable regardless of being original or not and in most if not all cases the aftermarket stuff for them is better than original, mine has twin carbs and they did also make models with 4 or just one for the turbocharger, once the carbs are adjusted they are fine for quite a while. How the community treats things is just completely different from VW.
Mike I am new to the VW world but I have a 66 single cab that I need a little help trouble shooting. It has a 1600 cc with dual carb setup. It starts fine and runs for about 3 min before it sputters out. It will still turn over after that but wont start again until I wait for several minutes. Where should I start?
Looking good. Lately I have been seeing advertisements where they are saying German quality but made in China in small print. Like they are pushing the laws on what they say.
Hi Mike! I am new to VW and am restoring 70 1600 T2. The PO installed dual carbs. In doing so they bent the engine bay out of shape making them fit, leaving huge gaps where the seal should be. It runs pretty good but hot, I have learned why from your videos. My question is do I go back to single carb or come up with something to seal up what I have? Also I have new heater boxes and muffler. Should I pull the motor to do all this work or worry in place Thanks for the feedback!
What about ethanol free gas instead of premium. Premium has 10 to 20% ethanol which can cause rust build up internally in the engine and mess up fuel lines.... even german braided. Would you prefer premium over ethanol free gas? Gas without ethanol tend to have better gas mileage as well. What are your thoughts?
I have used ethanol free 87 in my 1776 mofoco for 13000 miles in 90° and can’t get it to ping if I tried to get it to ping. I still think mike is right about premium gas but I’ll take my chances.
unless you are restoring it so you can resale it for the most buck, then original might be the way to go, as for me i have no problem installing anything on the motor that in my opinion makes it better or faster or what ever i want, same with everything else , the car needs to suit me and my wants and needs, 6 volt system?, i think not!, those belong in a museum, unless 45 is your top end and that's with no power, there's so much you can do to "customize" your bug, that's a great part of the appeal. I currently own a 70 and as soon as i hit the lotto, i'm getting a 1776 dual port to put in it, along with some 67 bumpers and yes i will be parking it in my new gravel driveway that leads to my new double wide!!!, woo hooo, on top of the world baby!!!
I agree with the dual carbs. Years ago I had a 1641 with dual kadrons. It was irratic and not really enjoyable to drive. My stock 40 hp with a single solex is more reliable.
Great great great video!!! Agree with your VW ideology!!! I also want to stay with single carb,..avoiding the dual carb peer pressure! Which single carb , do u recommend for performance and reliability? Thanks
People are complaining about maintenance. Back in the day, VWs were some of the most reliable cars on the road. What is causing them to be headaches today?
By experience Empi quality has been absolute 💩💩💩. They eventually get better, but at our expense. Buy quality 1st, empi as last resort. Sorry Joni, but not as sorry as I am after I waste money and time on low quality, made by anyone, not just Empi.
chromoly pushrods dont move much at all really. And they are super noisy if you dont run them at zero. Just twist the pushrods. and they move freely. then your adjusted. Only can do this with those pushrods.
My current project is using a dual port and 3 rib out of my 71 camper and installing it in my 75 type 4 bus. 74mm striker 90.5 bore. The 75 was purchased as a shell, no transmission or engine. Any words of wisdom?
3000 mile oil change and valve maintenance is a must. Maintenance pays off.
double nut those values and you don't have to worry so much about the adjustments.
ALL valuable information. Took me 30+ years to learn all this stuff.
KIDS, listen to THIS advice, everyone around will think you're a genius! You'll be driving your ACVW, while your buddies are broken down, waiting on parts. Buy once, cry once.
Number one: Warm up the engine! Don't listen to the people who say otherwise.
@@jorgegallo3261 what’s a good rule of thumb for warming up
Thank you for your knowledge. It's been 4 decades since I had a VW. Times change, and parts and oil change. I am doing a father, son build. 1970 VW Beetle AutoStick, 1600 1.6 it's all original. It's been sitting for almost 4 decades.
Great job with all the helpful hints, Mike. You have the experience, so to me that's pretty much gospel. On those tiny Bug taillights... I remember when my dad bought his new 1960 tomato-red Beetle, he was concerned about those lights and the ability for drivers behind to see the brake lights. So he pretty much invented the third stop light. He bought a 5" diameter chrome-housed red stop light at the auto parts store, used black stick-on letters that read "STOP," wired it to the stop circuit and mounted it on the center of the venting above the rear deck lid. Nobody ever rear-ended us in that car and we were running it in busy traffic on Long Island, NY. Those taillights and the lack of gas gauge were a couple of reasons that Dad traded in our '60 for a new '62 Bug. I still have his old stop light... wish I had the tomato-red 1960 Beetle.
I'm going out on my own and say "external oil cooler" keeps it cool prolonging engine life!
Which one is best for 1600
Oil level on the increase I wish I knew about that a few years ago. I screwed up big time and let my fuel pump leak internally into the oil and washed out my engine bearings. that's a very good tip. It will never happen again ( I hope) I have learned much watching your videos and others. I love these little cars thanks for the info.
expensive problem today. engine rebuilds are pricey
That last point is a good one. Drove my car daily for 10 years. It was a constant battle with maintenance. Got an Accord now. Rebuilding carbs this weekend.
If you want a classic, antique economy car, get a Citroën 2CV - it makes the Volkswagens look like used BMW’s in comparison. They hardly ever have problems, and anything that goes wrong can be fixed by yourself, with a toolbox, within 2 hours.
@@stoneylonesome4062 You point out a Truth. There are several cars built in Post-War Europe that rival the VW Type 1, the Citroen being just one. Even Bulgaria had a rear engine air-cooled car that was bombproof. The early Saab 3-cyl was also excellent.
Germany got the benefit of American money to rebuild more than any other country. Volswagen also got the door opened for them to export to the US market. The rest is history.
I have followed all of these tips for my recent Bug build and cost wise it's all pretty much the same as a "stock" setup but the performance and longevity is insanely better. Fantastic general set of tips to keeps these VWs alive longer. Keep up the great content Mike!
thanks I will start building up content for a part 2 There are lots more tips that I forgot.
@@Mikefngarage Could you install LED bulbs in those tiny tail lights to make them brighter?
@autodidact537 Probably not for 6 volt but for 12 yes.
Yup , I've been using Castrol 20,50 in the vw's since high school the 80's was taught that then 👌
Drive it! Every single weekend, drive it. Absolutely beautiful bug, man.👍
One of the reasons why premium fuel works better in an air-cooled engine is that it is slower burning and is less prone to uncontrolled combustion (pinging/detonation). With today's fuels usually being blended combinations with alcohol I prefer to use nylon lined fuel injection hose. The quality of parts is now an issue for all brands of cars - there is an amazing amount of poorly finished new parts. Your advice to carefully inspect and be picky is spot on. I got blacklisted from a major online parts supplier - they were upset that I was returning so many defective parts! I would say that if you are going to daily drive a classic to go ahead and spend the money on fuel injection. Good advice on keeping the compression in the 8's for reliability. If you are building a fresh engine and going up in displacement, then I would also suggest freeway flyer gears to lower your highway rpms. Disc brakes and bright taillights are a must if you are driving with modern traffic.
6 volt and 12 volt bulbs are of the same wattage, so 6 volts does not mean dim lights, as long as you are using the correct bulbs. If you suffer from dim lights, you probably need to clean you sockets and any wiring connectors/splices. Also, make sure your ground strap from the engine to the body is in good condition and has nice clean tight connections. 6 volts are more sensitive to dirty connections, as amps are higher. When you double amps, you square resistance.
2:36 this fuel line is great if high quality, the problem is that there is fuel line like this out there , which will look fine from the inside but the rubber part will be cracked ( and fuel will seep trough the mesh ) .
always must be 5mm to fit correctly. In the US there is no 5mm hose. only 1/4 inch. Europe you have more options. High pressure injection 5mm hose is good too.
Thanks for the news about the Low Budget fuel injection system! Good to know.
he makes a good one. Using Fitech throttle body injection. they write the Hex files for smaller engines. Damn geniuses. talked to him for an hour.
Great video Mike! 😀
One upgrade I always do is convert to dual circuit brakes. Single circuit is fine until it suddenly isn't...
oh yea got that right comes with the AC industries disc brake kit.
Hi Mike, I am still running the original hoses in my fuel tank, new trans rebuilt engine 1970 Beetle. I will be swapping them out soon and use the German Braided ones, along with disc breaks and returning the Beetle to stock height so I can drive with a passenger and not just the dog. I just got rid of my points, and went Elec. So far so good, I love my Beetle "The Omen" and will keep improving what I have. Thank you for all your videos I am enjoying them. I have a friend with a 73 SB AS and he has nothing but problems with EMPI's work as of late, FYI Quality Control issues as of late. I will say steer clear of EMPI except the rims. EMPI hasn't been the same since the 90's. Mike super important at least in a Beetle, don't forget the Heater Box Seals they go around the hose and in the hole super necessary anyone who is missing those get on it. I had to get mine they were missing at Avery's VW in Kelso, WA. a couple hours away from me in Seattle.
some of the empi stuff is OK not great and an option. I usually get other stuff with some exceptions. They have about the only disc bug brake kits. they do work ok. They have worked out the bugs pretty much.
"The Omen". I love it.
Lots of good information here. We have a gas station that has one pump with Premium Non Ethanol gas. I run with that and get better gas mileage plus I don't have to worry about all the crap that happens with ethanol fuel.
not a bad idea. California NOPE.....never happen....Pretty soon they will outlaw gas. CRAZY.
@@Mikefngarage
California wants to collect Methane Gas Emissions from Humans too..you'll be wearing Expensive Undies soon !! 😉
Total agreement about dual carbs.
Great job Mike, the big revolution to me was the Castrol motor oil. I’m going to try it as I’ve always been fighting heating issues with my motor and Valvoline VR1
Breaks down like water. Remove both when warm. it will tell you a story.
@@Mikefngarage GREAT video, Mike. What brand and model is the 72 pass oil cooler? Thanks!
Good comment on fuel in air cooling engine, thanks.
I got to meet u at OCTO last Saturday
Love ur video's
Keep it up bro
Thanks a ton
You got me thinking a lot about dual carbs vs single carbs , you are right , I frequently fiddle with dual carbs and plugged jets regardless of good filtering . My 1600 cc with Brosol H30/31 was really great back then . hmmmm.
Thank you for another great video Mike. To stir the oil war pot. Castrol has come out with 20w-50 Classic With ZDDP available at Walmart.
yea that is cool. Probably formulated like Kendall which has more Zddp. Have not used VR1 since about 1981 or 2. and everyone I know blew them off at the same time. all the racers Everyone.
Cool! I didn't know Castrol had an oil with ZDDP now, that's good news for air-cooled guys.
Great video Mike! This is the video I've been waiting for.
Well that was a revelation about the gas and oil. I'm so grateful that we have electronic ignitions available. Chinese parts are what is available and affordable any more.
The china motor is not too bad. The purists hate this stuff.
Hey, that's the Oil I've got! Also STP usually cheap at walmart.
Great Video! Thanks for all the suggestions! 👍
Good suggestions! New here....reminiscing about my '69 that I haven't owned for 50 years. My biggest issues were poor spark plug wires absorbing moisture on rainy days. Heater control "cables" rusting through -- I should have lubed them ...with something. And not knowing to adjust the valves -- until I burned an exhaust. If I still owned it, I would put in an electronic ignition and switch to an alternator. Have fun!
Car Wizard install elec fuel pump on a hard to start 70's bug, fires right up and can be returned orig. easily
Ethanol is the issue for fuel hoses and fuel pumps.
Most available hoses are ethanol "resistant' to varying degree's.
100% ethanol proof is available, but pricey and likely the stuff OEM's are using on new vehicles.
This is the only hose I now use and after 4 years it shows no signs of degradation or hardening.
All fuels here in the UK now have at least 5% ethanol so it's essential insurance in my opinion.
No that's incorrect about a minimum of 5% ethanol. E5 indicates that the petrol has UP TO 5% ethanol. Some "E5" has almost no ethanol. Tesco still sell a 99 RON petrol called Momentum.
Excellent practical information Mike. Thanks
get a 3rd brake light! One that sticks to the back window.
Especially these days when everyone is glued to their phones its a must.
2 things about the fuel system, don't install plastic filters on the fly in the engine bay. Don't use the cloth covered fuel hoses. They look nice and original but you can't see any cracks in the rubber. The reinforced high pressure hoses for fuel injected cars are more reliable. The rubbish rubber material today is so worse and dangerous. Protect from fire. Made in Germany today is crap produced in China and sold for much money and it's not worth it. Points capacitors from Beru are more reliable than the crappy Bosch made in China. This are my experience last 20 years run 4 aircooled VWs.
DONT EVER INSTALL 3 piece glass filters in the engine bay.....Plastic has never been a problem for anyone I know. Shops who have been in business 40 years......Just saying do as you please. In Europe I hear that have different fuel formulas that effect the German hose. Here German hose is the best. The rubber stuff really is a problem. But if you can get 5mm neoprene rubber material that is fine. Here in the us it is only 1/4 inch which is not the correct size..
@@Mikefngarage I agree, I installed the filter near the Tank and replaced or cleaned the metal fuel line. I had never problems with clogged jets. Plastic filters and hot engine bay can be critical. One I had installed fall off from the hose after a longer term of use. The diameter of the hose connection was shrinked. It can be also a bad quality of the filter housing. Thank you for the interesting Video. Best regards from Germany.
@@chrisn6304 I have had the metal fuel line from front to rear loose a tiny rust chunk and clogged my jet. also had the metal fuel line from the front of the engine to the engine compartment do the same (Customers cars). WE have been running the plastic ones on the pressure side of the fuel pump for 40+ years. Personally I have never seen or heard of one break probably over the years 30+ thousand cars......with German hose AND clamps. With every tune up we replaced the hose and fuel filter on the pressure side as well. That is why I say here in the US. Europe you might have different problems. I think over there they REALLY want to get rid of Petrol engines. worse than California that is why they make the fuel so acidic so it eats up hoses.
THe plastic filters are ok, if you get a reputable brand and not mystery Chinese. When I worked for Briggs and Stratton I tested fuel filters. Some of the Chinese ones had a 6% leak rate even though they claimed they were 100% inspected. Briggs required less than 1 in 10 million failure rate on fuel system parts. 5 good filters (ITW made in Illinois) withstood over 500 psi on the burst test. Good control over the plastic welding process is key, poorly welded filters might pass a leak check, but pop open after a few thermal cycles.
When I owned my 2 '73 bugs (1 regular and 1 super) or any other car in my life, I only Castrol GTX oil.
Great video!! Lots of very good points!!
Thank you!
Thanks so much for sharing man. It means a lot to all of us.
Do you have any videos on how to keep your vw from overheating? Or how to have your engine tuned up correctly, like the engine being able to go 60 or 70 miles per hour?
my 73 super can sit for a month and I don't even have to touch the gas pedal for it to start. here in Missouri, the winters are pretty cold, and the summers are hot. Helga just doesn't care; she is ready to go anytime. When it gets really cold, I use her to jump start Kias and Hondas. I agree with everything you said about long life but fuel. I run half and half
I got tired of VW maintenance…. Eventually sold it and bought a Citroën 2CV. No problems since with the 2CV.
Whats your take on Shell Rotella oil? I hear that the oil in the T4 or 5 are great for old engines because there is lots of zinc added. Because they are engineered for diesel engines, they can withstand the temperatures.
Bosch is making some stuff like spark plugs in Russia and they aren’t that good anymore. I like to use a oil with high zinc level or add zinc to it for my vw’s engines.
Thank you for the affirmation of the new aluminum case. I regret not buying one sooner- they just keep going up in price. I need to pull the trigger sooner than later and purchase one for my bus.
Fantastic! Saved this to my own collection of videos in a playlist as important sh!t to remember, lol.
I'm glad to say I have done a lot of what things you have mentioned, and the bay runs very well.
Just need some beach boys music and I'm happy. I'm not that old, but older stuff is much more fun. Blend of old and new ✨️ 👌 🏄♂️🌊🏄♀️
Learning a lot from you before I get my first air cooled vw this weekend (a 73 super beetle)I agree on the electric fuel pumps had one on a old ram charger never ran right with it
If I'm not running a rear apron or decklid will I have problems with cooling? I don't drive the bug too often, it's a 1600 with dual 34s. The engine sort of hangs off the transmission like a baja but it's a street car
Thanks for the video mike.
Hi Mike.
Hope you’re well?
I’ve been told to use a high content zinc 30 weight mineral oil in old vw engines, as there are no detergents in it. I also hear that you are meant to use ‘newer oils’ with detergents like 20w50 etc, only if you have a full flow engine with removable filter, as it suspends the crap in the oil, which then get removed by the filter. A straight 30, is better for cooling but puts all the crud into the strainer, which you then clean out ever other oil change.
What do you think?
All the best.👍🏾🛠🇬🇧
Good video, the only thing that i wonder about is that if you're running 7.2:1 the engine is running such low temperatures that low octane fuel would not make any difference.
7.2 might run on regular fuel on cool weather. Especially if you have big valves and that low of compression. (lots of air fuel mix in the chamber) over cam would also do the same thing. For most people with stock valves and 7.2 the combustion pressure at say 90 degrees F...the engine combustion temp is still pretty high. then you ad the temp to the actual pressure and it is possible to ping. If your engine never pings on regular fuel and your total advance is at 28. you should be ok.
Do u have a video on tuning that carb on the bus engine?
I don't know if they ever corrected the fit . Those gold gen-alt pulleys would just fall on . One of those came with the alt. and I threw it in the garbage ! If you don't have to beat it on the shaft = that boy ain't right . give it a year and it will rattle the key way.
yea that is aggravating. I put on the german ones but Idk if they are german anymore.
Hey Mike! Enjoy your video today… The carburetors you got on your bus, What size carburetor and brand it is? Thanks
best and easiest to jet is The EMPI egas. You can buy the carb without the manifold in AZ on some website for less than 150....Needs to be jetted for your engine though. Takes some time and commitment.
Your comment about Castrol was interesting...Project Farm did an extensive comparison of engine oils a year or two ago and the thing I remember about it was that, compared to other brands of oils of the same weight, Castrol seemed to have slightly higher viscosity. I wonder if that is why it works so well for you in your VWs.
Have you ever tried Shell Rotella T4 in your VWs? I've only had an ACVW for a few years now and used Lucas Classic Car oil when I did an oil change but am debating what to use next. Other classic car channels I follow use Rotella for the higher zinc content.
Same here; I have used Rotella single grade for years but I believe the multi grade should be good too.
I love Rotella T6.
Rotella is good oil and good option. I use t6 in all my diesel trucks. I have not tried it in my vws. because Castrol and Kendall work so well. From what I know the Zddp in Kendall is a little higher than castrol. But not available in all places. harder to find. I have not viscosity checked t4 in a vw. I would assume it would be better than VR1 because diesel engines break down oil like not tomorrow. The only reservation I have is that diesel oil is designed to mix with diesel fuel as it bypasses the rings. How does it mix with gasoline? I am not an oil chemist. so I stick with what I know that works.
I use whatever 20w50 is cheapest at the time I buy it. I do however change it often and regularly!
I use castrol 20/50 on my vehicles and Lucas oil stabilizer GOOD STUFF!
These are great tips Mike. Excellent video mate. Love that ragtop Beetle too!
Great tips Mike, especially about the oil and gas octane. What about that oil cooer?
According to my Vintage VW shop...the trouble with getting parts today is the fact that the older workforce in Brazil retired at Covid. Parts are still around/made but the quality that the older workforce knew how to build is not the same as the new stuff on the market. The old part supplies came to an end until the manufactures started up again after covid. 1900cc 1969 VW Dune Buggy
Some great helpful hints. Definitely lots of controversy about brands of oil. Been using Royal Purple in my 64 1776 for awhile now but it's $$$$ and hard to find. Might try Castrol next time. Thanks for the video!
hello Mike!! saludos desde Argentina!!
QQ for you, we have no chance to get Lucas HD Oil Stabilizer here, but we can get Liqui Moly products, do you know if the Liqui Moly ViscoPlus + GTX 20W-50 will do the trick? I usually run my 1.2CC with GTX15W-40 but as the summer is coming I am thinking on swap it to ensure that ir runs as cooler as possible.
Thanks in advance!
Im running a 1300cc dual port motor me and my dad rebuilt cam has been reprofiled a few degrees from stock. Using the empi street curve distributor, its still uses points and condensor. I use a module that replaces the condensor its called G-tech its south african made the builder tests it on his own cars too see if relaible for usage. So far no issues. All engin tins are replaced with newer plates. On my bug i have a stand off plates too keep my motor cool on long runs or when in traffic. Only thing i need too replace is my alternator. I do a weekly run through too see if everything is still good. Bosch coil in south africa is super expensive. Been using a cheap coil and never have issues
I had an empi for about 10 months. Over 9000 miles till an electronic short in my ignition switch behind the dash killed it. Now I'm trying an accuspark out of Europe. 3ohm coil with 38 tho spark plug gap.
Got a little over 100 miles so far.
Hey Mike. Isn't Castrol gtx synthetic?
Didn't VW recommend mineral oil for their aircooled motors? I could be wrong, I am frequently.
Instead of points it's better electrical ignition, points are troublesome especially when it rains
It's coming up 50 years since I bought my Beetle. Impressive video. Volkswagen aren't unreliable. They just require your attention. That's why it's called "The People's Car", the people could fix their own car. Originally, in the '30's, they'd give you a set of tools with a new car. Or so I heard. Aaaaand, My '72 Van still has the sticker on the gas flap. It says there in German to use Regular gas, 91 octane. Today's regular is only 87.
the only real reliability issue is the quality of parts is not as good as before. No more real Germán parts. only assembled in Germany. gas is lead free too. which runs hotter. need that premium.
Does the sticker say 91 RON or 91 octane?
My 69 bus says 91 RON on the sticker, RON is what they use to rate fuel in Europe. 91 RON is the same as 87 octane.
@@danieljones2936 87 leaded fuel.....and they dont make that anymore. Without the lead they run hotter which means more pressure in the combustion chamber......PREMIUM....for todays fuel is a must.
should always run 91 unleaded. Remember the lead was in fuel in those days. which was part of the cooling system of a vw. They have hotter combustion so that = more pressure.
also the parts quality is not even the same as back in the day....no more REAL Germán parts. So the reliability is not near what it was back even 20 years ago.
Thank Mike for the great video!! I just had an engine builder build me a original 40hp and an 1835 and swore that Valvoline VR1 20-50 was the best oil. I am running an exterior oil cooler and with the 40 hp have not passed 160⁰. I have not installed the 1835 yet because I am waiting on heater boxes. Is the Casterol synthetic and does it matter? I am only using 91 0r 93 octane gas. Thanks again for a great video!
Castrol or Kendall Regular oil is the best. The synthetic may get too thin for the vw and cause leaks. Lots of guys that are newer use VR1....NOT ME anymore or any vw Older guru I know. Only the Young guys under 40 use it. Us older guys know better.
Agree on your oil choice! I’ve worked on loads of British classics and the Castrol works great for this era of European vehicles! Add some Lucas for good measure and change it at 3000 miles, tops. Great video and I’m tying to find a solid Bug up here in Washington. Had a ‘74 Bus but would love a Bug this time! Keep up the good work. Cheers!
Those cheap walmart grade crimp-on wire plugs, is definitely NOT doing anything for your reliability. Seen tons of engine issues with corroded, loose, or plain fallen off connectors. Either invest in commercial grade crimp tools and plugs, or go the cheap route and just solder it, then use some shrink tubing. They are also open to water moisture entering them which furthers corrosion.
Personally I use a little butane powered soldering tool, very handy to not have to futz with extensioncords, or in the field fixes.
Otherwise, lots of good tips.
I find 20/50 gets too thick in cold winter for starting and prefer castrol 15/40 as its flowing easier from startup but the 20/50 handles high temps sligjtly better.
yea true sometimes in the colder times I like to run 10 40 but mostly 20/50
Some great tips Mike ! I worked at a vw shop in the 80's in San Jose...all we used for oil was Castrol GTX 30 heavy Duty....great stuff ! What do you think of the old CB Performance external oil filter brackets on the oil pump ?
First I've heard about aluminum case...great news on that and the valve lash. But I havent had a vw for 40 years so maybe didnt have at that time
Yeah the aluminum case thing is fairly new. Well they did have them back in the old days. Scat performance made one and they were very very expensive. But now they're almost the same price with these autolineia ones
I use Rowe 20w50 vintage. Because of the Zink.
cant go wrong with german oil. My Diesels run Pentosin
Great Video Mike…
For 73 beetle is it better to add another oil cooler to a 1600,which is best the square one on back wall or filter one
So I own a corvair, it's a similar machine but obviously made by Chevy. They are reliable regardless of being original or not and in most if not all cases the aftermarket stuff for them is better than original, mine has twin carbs and they did also make models with 4 or just one for the turbocharger, once the carbs are adjusted they are fine for quite a while.
How the community treats things is just completely different from VW.
Mike I am new to the VW world but I have a 66 single cab that I need a little help trouble shooting. It has a 1600 cc with dual carb setup. It starts fine and runs for about 3 min before it sputters out. It will still turn over after that but wont start again until I wait for several minutes. Where should I start?
Looking good. Lately I have been seeing advertisements where they are saying German quality but made in China in small print. Like they are pushing the laws on what they say.
I believe that. Taiwan I think is better when it says that I kinda think well it is not China.
Hi Mike! I am new to VW and am restoring 70 1600 T2. The PO installed dual carbs. In doing so they bent the engine bay out of shape making them fit, leaving huge gaps where the seal should be.
It runs pretty good but hot, I have learned why from your videos.
My question is do I go back to single carb or come up with something to seal up what I have?
Also I have new heater boxes and muffler. Should I pull the motor to do all this work or worry in place
Thanks for the feedback!
Not sure
Really good tips. Thanks for this video 😃
I got a 79 fuel injected bug would it be wise to but a carburetor engine in it instead thanks
What about ethanol free gas instead of premium. Premium has 10 to 20% ethanol which can cause rust build up internally in the engine and mess up fuel lines.... even german braided. Would you prefer premium over ethanol free gas? Gas without ethanol tend to have better gas mileage as well. What are your thoughts?
I have used ethanol free 87 in my 1776 mofoco for 13000 miles in 90° and can’t get it to ping if I tried to get it to ping. I still think mike is right about premium gas but I’ll take my chances.
unless you are restoring it so you can resale it for the most buck, then original might be the way to go, as for me i have no problem installing anything on the motor that in my opinion makes it better or faster or what ever i want, same with everything else , the car needs to suit me and my wants and needs, 6 volt system?, i think not!, those belong in a museum, unless 45 is your top end and that's with no power, there's so much you can do to "customize" your bug, that's a great part of the appeal. I currently own a 70 and as soon as i hit the lotto, i'm getting a 1776 dual port to put in it, along with some 67 bumpers and yes i will be parking it in my new gravel driveway that leads to my new double wide!!!, woo hooo, on top of the world baby!!!
Thanks for making this video. Great tips 👍😀
Rotella 15w40 diesel oil has the ZDDP and seems to run good
I agree with the dual carbs. Years ago I had a 1641 with dual kadrons. It was irratic and not really enjoyable to drive. My stock 40 hp with a single solex is more reliable.
Great great great video!!! Agree with your VW ideology!!! I also want to stay with single carb,..avoiding the dual carb peer pressure! Which single carb , do u recommend for performance and reliability?
Thanks
Would you say mobil 1 v twin 20w50 is a good choice for engine oil? as it's designed for air cooled and high temperatures.
I use the same oil.
Nice video.👍
Can you install a AC in this cars? My wife wants one but the one she wants doesn’t have it, is it possible?
What carburetor is that it looks like it's mounted backwards
How about using 3/16 inch diameter fuel line?. It works out to 96% of the 5mm I.D. German fuel line.
Is castrol 20-50 good for 2.0 type 4? New to vws so im still learning
Yes....I use that or Kendall. both great oils some guys use Penn Grade now.....Not Pennsoil (do not use this stuff)
Want your engines to last?
Change the oil often and keep it standard.
That's easy, keep it original, change the oil and service the timing point and plugs severy 3000km and set the tappets every 9000km
74 standard beetle partially rebuilt looking for a new home. Love me some bugs but no time anymore to work on them. Respond to this comment.
I run the same oil in my bug I run the 15w-40
People are complaining about maintenance. Back in the day, VWs were some of the most reliable cars on the road. What is causing them to be headaches today?
By experience Empi quality has been absolute 💩💩💩. They eventually get better, but at our expense. Buy quality 1st, empi as last resort. Sorry Joni, but not as sorry as I am after I waste money and time on low quality, made by anyone, not just Empi.
I use Brad Penn oil
Amsoil number one😊
Why do you set valves to zero? Is it possible to talk to you on the phone sometime?
chromoly pushrods dont move much at all really. And they are super noisy if you dont run them at zero. Just twist the pushrods. and they move freely. then your adjusted. Only can do this with those pushrods.
My current project is using a dual port and 3 rib out of my 71 camper and installing it in my 75 type 4 bus. 74mm striker 90.5 bore. The 75 was purchased as a shell, no transmission or engine. Any words of wisdom?