Volkswagen: VW runs rough, vw 1600, vw service

Question
I have a VW 1600 Buggy that just started having problems at start up with cylinders 3 and 4 running rough, loud and hot. The engine has dual carbs. The problem started recently when firing it up a couple of times, then went away at next start up and ran smooth. Now it starts up and runs rough on 3 and 4 all the time. Carb problem feeding 3 and 4? Any suggestions greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Gary,

Try doing a compression test on the cylinders.  There should be no difference of more than 25 PSI per cylinder.  This will rule out any bad rings, or valve seats.

Next do a valve adjustment using any VW service manual.  The correct gap needs to be .006" on a cold engine.

Once these steps are done, try putting in new plugs, and than timing the engine.  

Finally, spray a little starting fluid around where the manifold bolts to the cylinder head on 3&4 while the engine is running.  If it smooths out, than you know that the manifold gasket is leaking and needs to be replaced.

The combination of all these efforts should have you running just fine.

Let me know how you make out,

Ron