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: 12/9/2007 Subject: 78 Super Beetle
Question My car is convertible and leaks terribly during rain. My car got soaked and now won't start. It turns over but something is wet. I cannot figure out where the distributor cap is. It isn't easy to see. Maybe there is water in it? Also how do I stop all this leaking without paying an arm and a leg. I was told there is one company who makes the kits to re-rubberize the car but then I have to pay labor. That's about 2000. What's a Girl To Do?????
Answer Robiana,
Most likely, the wires got wet by the computer and relay that are located behind the back seat on the passenger side.
I would suggest disconnecting the battery, unplugging the two square wires by the relay, cleaning the contacts on the relay itself, and spraying a little contact cleaner on the inside of the two plugs to fix the water damage.
Do the same with the big black squre plug that connects to the computer.
I would also replace the cap, rotor, and distributor wires. They are located to the left of the belt in the engine compartment.
This whole operation should cost under 100.00 and get your car running nicely.
Once this is fixed, you are going to have to address that leak!
Please let me know how you make out, and if there is anything else I can do to help you.
