AboutRon 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.
Expert: Ron Wolff Date: 3/1/2007 Subject: 72 Super Beetle Engine/Heating
Question We are in process of trying to restore, it was rinning when we bought it, but the heating system is puzzling, we've found (in front) the fan box in but wires not connected, and engine, no hoses, and various holes that need repaired. How does the heat system work?? (start at the engine, plz, as we have no clue what to follow) Right now, there is no air at all coming inside the car, or at the shallow hole under the fan box.
Also, can a newer engine be put in the 72? I was running it today, and the fan belt came off and overheated the whole engine, had it towed home and considering our options, as the engine doesn't seem to want to turn over now after cooling. (Husband says it may have locked up).
We would like to also know which manual you would recommend, and where to find one, our parts stores around here really don't offer anything nice, or easy.
Answer Hi Penny,
Most likely the engine is locked up, if it will not turn anymore. Fortunately, they sell the engines 'ready to start'.
www.mamotorworks.com
www.gowesty.com
are some sites which sell the 1600cc engine.
Once you decide on getting a motor, the "Official Type I Repair Manual" by Robert Bentley (available on E-bay)
is the best step-by-step manual to get your bug up and running again.
Any 1600cc engine from 1971 - 1979 will fit in that car and work just fine.
