Volkswagen: CLAKCLACKCLACK!, flathead screwdriver, feeler gauge

Question
ron-
my 1970 beetle developed a tiny little tap the other day, which i thought might be the valves??? when i left work the end of that day, as if a switch was thrown, the little tap turned into a full blown CLACKING. it also lost power, almost as if it wasn't hitting on all cylinders. it has oil, and is currently in the car of a fairly reputable garage. i was hoping for some information, however little, to keep from getting snowed on this one.

thanks in advance!!!

ben

Answer
Hi Ben,

The first thing you need to do is to adjust your valves.  You will need a feeler gauge. (they are less than $5.00 at any auto store)

You will need to get a VW Beetle manual to find out the details of how to do this adjustment. (it is not difficult)

Hopefully, this will fix the clickety-clack.

The gap is .006 and you will need the following tools:

Large flathead screwdriver
Feeler gauge
13MM Box-end wrench
Valve cover gaskets (cork)  available at www.mamotorworks.com

Aside from that, you should be good to go!

Let me know how you make out.

Thanks,

Ron