Volkswagen: 1970 Karmann Ghia, karmann ghia, carburettor


Question
Hi Ron

Thankyou for that.  I replaced the rotor and distributor cap yesterday and the problem is still occurring.  So I guess the next step is to replace the coil.  The is a relay next to the coil which is strange and I cant work out what it is dealing with, but it is a bit old and loose so I will also replace that.

When you put your foot on the accelerator to take off at lights, it coughs and splutters, misfires, backfires and this morning I didnt take my foot off to get it going I just left it at the same level to see what it would do  and the car just conked out.

I will keep you up to date.  Thankyou for the help.

Cheers

Jess
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Followup To

Question -
Hi Ron
I have had a recurring issue with my Karman in that when I have stopped at lights/intersection and take off when I put my foot on the accelerator there is a "flat" spot and the car car nearly stalls, almost like it is flooding. If I back off the accelerator slightly then put it down again the motor will go. I just had the carburettor replaced last week and I have also replaced the condeser which was touching the earth strap and causing it to cut out.
It continues to happen even after I have "warmed" the car up after driving for 20 minutes.  The #2 cylinder spark plug was also fouling really quickly (I think with fuel) which is why we changed the carburettor - it seemed to be letting too much fuel in.  The pressure on the #2 cylinder is 70PSI (it is the plug that fouls the quickest) but the mechanic said all the cylinders are a bit low in pressure.


The mechanic I am using cant seem to fix it and so far it is costing me a fortune.  I love the car but I am nearly over it.  Have you got ANY advice for me

Thankyou

Jess

Answer -
Hi Jess,  This should help:

1) Get hotter burning plugs.

2) Make sure that you have new points, distributor cap and rotor in the car.

3) Replace the coil
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If that does not work:

4) Your fuel filter could be clogged or you may need a new fuel pump. (it may not be letting enough fuel in)

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Step 1-3 Should cost less than $50.00

Step 4 (if necessary) should cost less than $40.00

Let me know how you make out.


Ron

Answer
Jess,


Try this:

Get some starting fluid and have a fire extinguisher handy.
Make sure the spark plugs are all connected firmly.


Start the engine.

1) Where the engine and intake manifold meet (down by the head)...spray some fluid around it.

2) Try both sides.

If the engine speeds up in any instance, you found the problem, the intake manifold gaskets are leaking.  (not a big project to fix)

Turn off engine.

3) Check the rubber boots where the carb stand eventually leads to.  Make sure they are tight and not cracked.

Let me know how you make out with that test.

Will figure this out.   Don't worry.


Ron