Volkswagen: 78 super beetle, gas milage, vent windows

Question
I'm a first time owner of a 78 super beetle and I have a few questions.  How do you know if it's overheating since there is no gauge?  What are the knobs that say "air" on them to the right of the steering wheel? Are all 78s fuel injected?  What kind of gas mileage should I expect?  What kind of maintenance regimen do you recommend?  How do you find reverse:>)?  I love it already and I want to keep it running for a long time. thanks!

Answer
Hi Audrey,

1) There is no overheat light.  You just need to check the oil as often as possible, as well as make sure the one belt back there is on firm.  The belt spins the alternator as well as the cooling fan.

2) The knobs for air are as follows:  one directs cool air into the cabin space, the other directs cool air to the side vent windows (through those little round circular holes) as well as blows air on the windshield.  This is fresh air that only comes in when the car is moving.   If you would like air to blow while the car is idle (i.e. at a light) turn the tiny switch with the picture of a fan on  it and it will activate a blower for when you are at a stand still.

3) Yes, every VW Beetle from 1975 to 1979 is fuel injected, and is now becoming a valuable thing to have.  This is because most people take it off and put a carb on it, depreciating the value and making fuel injection more rare.  It is actually a very simple and trouble-free system.

4) Gas milage varies, it would be safe to assume about 20-21 MPG based on todays fuel.  These cars were originally designed to run with leaded fuel (unless you have a catalytic converter) and require high octane to run well.

5) Reverse is easy: Push the clutch in.  Push the gear shift straight down into the floor, and move it towards your right knee.  It will only go into reverse if you push the handle down.

6) I would change the oil every 3K miles.  Adjust the valves every 7K miles, replace the plugs, points, cap, rotor, air filter, drive belt, and fuel filter every 10K miles.  Also, I would time the ignition along with every valve adjustment (at 7K miles).

This should keep you moving along for many years to come.  Also, don't revvvvvvv the engine and drive it at 75 MPH.  It's meant to sputter along at about 60-65 if you want to maximize your motor life.

Congrats, and you will have many years of enjoyment with it!

Ron