Volkswagen: Poor Gas Milage 1973 dual carb Type 3 SQBK, vw squareback, fuel injection system

Question
1973 T3 VW Squareback
We converted the fuel injection to a dual carb set up a while ago and we are getting a rich fuel burning smell and poor gas milage. What can be done to improve the gas milage and lessen the rich mix? Also has a strong gas smell inside the cab. We saw your advice on another question and will check the fill tube for cracks but is there anything else we need to look at on this model?  

Answer
Hi,

Unfortuntely, the engines in these cars (T3's) are not too friendly with the dual carb systems.   If it's too lean, the engine could over heat...to rich, you get poor fuel milage.

I would first adjust the valves, and most importantly due a tune up!   Replace the plugs with a hotter burning type, which may stop the dumping/unburned fuel from passing through.

Next, you will need to bring the car to a reputable place to have the carbs sycronized and leaned out a bit, which can only be done with a special smog-machine.

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Also, a note of recommendation, if you can get your hands on an original fuel injection system for that vehicle, and update certain parts. (they sell many new -- very inexpensive)  It will drive like show-room new.

I wish you the best of luck,

Ron