Classic/Antique Car Repair/Gas in my oil...

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Expert: - 7/17/2008


Question
I have a 74 super beetle, the car will run great for about 10 minutes and then start to have problems before it finally dies.  I take the spark plugs out and have a fuel smell on them.  I can clean the plugs, put them back in and the problem starts all over again.  Nobody in the VW section but I figure an engine problem can be solved by another mechanic also.  Please help.....

Answer
Hi Scott:
Don't know much about VW's, but I will take a stab at it.
Assuming your plugs are not fouled, but have gas on them would lead me to believe you have a choke/auto choke problem that kicking in and flowing out the car. Also, such a problem could be cause by a bad oxygen sensor. Do know if a 74 super beetle has an automatic choke or oxygen sensor, but if it does, check those.

In the subject, you also say "Gas in my oil". That means gas is getting pass the piston rings and mixing with the oil. So, something is stuck open. This is why I'm suspicious of the choke and sensor. But it could also mean the plugs are not firing, so new plugs and possibly wires could cause this.

Hope this helps...

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Vern Bullock

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Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.

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I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.

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