Volkswagen: 1969 vw bug, valve job, electronic distributor

Question
I recently bought a 1969 bug with a 1600 single port engine. I did a valve job, replaced spark plugs, cap and rotor (its an electronic distributor), coil, and did the timing. When it runs it runs great (its a refurbished engine). Recently it has had this intermittent problem. I will drive it and it will just stop running like I turned the key in the off possition.Then when I try to start it it wont start. I checked to see if it was getting spark and its not.I'm getting 12 volts to the ciol. Then out of the blue it will start again, and runs perfect for awhile.It also happens when I drive somewhere and turn the car off and when I try to restart it... nothing! Please help! Thanks

Answer
David,

Fortunately, this does not sound like a major problem for your little 69! From your symptoms, it seems like any of the following items could be the problem:

1) The wire to the coil is loose. (upon engine heat up, the plug expands and loses connectivity)

2) A faulty condenser

3) The electric auto-choke on the carb is stuck 'on'.

4) A faulty coil or loose wire from coil to top of distributor.

The best way to resolve this, is to do the electric checks when the car is dead.  

Let me know how you make out.

Ron