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Volkswagen/71 VW K Ghia Conv. will not start

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Expert: Ron Wolff - 9/2/2009


Question

71 VW Karmann Ghia Con
My son's 1971 Karmann Ghia Convertible was last started in July 2009 and did just fine.  We tried to fire it up last week and discovered that the battery was dead (no lights, gauges).  
The VW would not attempt to turn over with a quick jump, nor after jumper cabling to a running 93 Cougar for about 30 minutes.  
Got lights and gauges back to the VW dash, but still not even a semblance of a peep from the engine.  No starter clicks, no nuthin.  :(

We think this means a new starter is needed, perhaps?  Where is the starter located on this Ghia?  

Any hints, tips, tricks or wisdom you can share will be appreciated.  My son is trying to buy a home out of state and wants to sell the Ghia to help with a downpayment, and we have zero, zip, zilch experience with VW's.

thanks
--dlperry


Answer
DL,

The starter is on the bellhousing part of the transmission.

The best way to check the starter is:

1) Locate the starter, than located the solenoid. (it is round/metal and located on the top of the starter)

2) You will see a thick electric cable bolted on to the solenoid.

3) Located the other thick electric cable that goes from the solenoid into the starter.

---- bridge the gap in between two wires with the metal of a screwdriver ----

If the starter whirrs into action, you have a bad connection somewhere (i.e. ignition wire)

If the starter does not turn over with a fully charged battery, than replace.

Best of Luck,

Ron

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Ron Wolff

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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

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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.

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