Volkswagen Repair: vw owner, running on three, air cooled vw

Question
my 1971 vw will start but will not idle .i have to keep it started by keep pressing the gas

Answer
Larry,
  I have not worked on any air cooled VW engines, but two things come to mind.  First determine if the engine is firing on all  cylinders...a four cylinder engine should not idle well running on three or less.  Secondly if the engine is firing on all four, try to increase the idle speed at the carb.  Access a Motor's manual at your local library to guide you through the procedures.  Most libraries will have Import manuals for the year in question.  Hope this helps.  Jerry