Volkswagen: 1978 VW Beetle Convertible, screw driver, turning the key

Question
QUESTION: Ron:

I think I have a fuel pump issue, or maybe the relay.  Engine turns over, but won't start.  Tried the screwdriver/flap inside air intake trick, and herd no relay click or fuel pump activation.  Engine will start with starting fluid, but won't run.  My wife is supposed to lead a 4th of July Parade in this car, so I REALLY need to get it going.  Any suggestions?

Thanks.

ANSWER: Hi Darel,

When you did the 'screw driver test' was the key on the 'on' position?

If that is the case, take a test light and connect it to the fuel pump leads.  Have someone push the flap with a screwdriver while the key is on.  If it lights up, the pump is faulty.

If test light does not turn on, go to the relay behind the back seat and clean all the contacts.  Turn the ignition on, it should make a clicking noise.  

Most likely, it is probably a poor connection behind the back seat.

Good Luck and keep me posted.

Ron

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: OK.  No light on the fuel pump test.  I do hear and feel a click at the relay behind the back seat when turning the key to "on" and clicks again when turning "off".  Still no start.  Is there a fuse between the relay and the fuel pump?  By the way the screwdriver in the air intake flap causes no activation of the relay.  Only turning the key on or off activates it.

Answer
Check the wires on the starter, and make sure nothing fell off.  There is a wire from #30 (I believe) which gives power to the fuel pump when car is in 'start' position.

Also, if the car is 'on' and the flap is pushed open (and held) there should be voltage for the fuel pump.

If not, I would suspect a bad ground or bad fuel pmp.

Let me know how you make out

Ron