You are here:

Volkswagen/1974 VW Super Beetle smoking once warm

Advertisement

Expert: Ron Wolff - 4/20/2009


Question
My 1974 VW Super Beetle begins to produce A LOT of smoke (more bluish than grayish) after it has run for a few minutes.  It pours a virtual smokescreen when making left turns, then quiets down a bit, but still smokes a lot.  Does the Left Turn factor indicate anything specific?  What's the fix - something simple like changing the oil a couple times with some Bardahl, or do I need to replace valves?

Answer
Chris,

It actually sounds like your valve cover gaskets (more so on the left) are leaking on to the exhaust.  Actually, the heat exchangers.

Typically, when those gaskets go, the oil drips out on to the hot exchangers and creates smoke.

I would check and replace these.  Also, because you will have the covers off, do yourself a big favor and adjust the valve clearance.

NOTE: Only do valve clearance adjustment on a completely cool engine, or it will throw off the accuracy.

Take Care,

Ron

Volkswagen

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Ron Wolff

Expertise

I am proficient in the following areas of VW Air Cooled Models from 1968-1979: Vehicles: Super Beetle, Beetle, Thing, Karmann Ghia, Bus, Westfalia/Bus Areas of expertise years 1968-1979 Engine Rebuild advice for all air cooled engines VW Brake system replacement Automatic Stickshift transmission VW KOOL and DPD air conditioning systems (ex. thing) Westfalia Electrical system dual battery Westy Refridge Repair Westy Cabinet Repair Westy AFC Fuel Injection system (1975 bugs) (1975 bus/Westys) Soundproofing General type 4 engine rebuild/technical data (i.e. 1.7 ltr, 1.8., 2.0) for buses VW Air Cooled Beetle and Bus Paint codes VW Distributor Compatibility Information Westy component repair Emission Systems Exhaust Systems General Electric System Door rebuild (windows, seals, vent windows) Body Panel Removal and general repair (non-welded) Charging System Convertible top Installation: Beetle CV joints Engine Troubleshooting Valve Train Non areas of expertise: High Performance Modifications Front end related components Rear suspension (spring plate adjustment) Bodywork / painting

Experience


Past/Present clients
I often contribute to the westfalia users group technical boards. I have been a member for about 4 years. My usermame is 76Heatwagen
I restore vintage Volkswagens and currently own 4 of them.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.