Volkswagen: My beetle battles to start., back seat, vw

Question
I just bought a 1972 VW beetle 1600. She runs fine once started, however, sometimes she battles to start. when I turn the key its almost like it is not getting power. it will try and start ONCE and after that there's nothing. Lights and all are fine there. Could you please direct me to what the problem could be?

Answer
Hi Iwan,

It sounds like your wiring from the ignition switch to the starter has a lot of resistance in it, due to age.

The best way to test this is by looking under your back seat and connecting the red wire that goes directly to the starter to the + part of the battery.  

Here is a link to your wiring diagram that will show you where to disconnect the red wire and and to 'jump' it to the battery.

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/archives/info/wiring/bug_std_super_72.jpg

If the car turns over, I would suggest buying a 'hard start' relay.


These are available at www.mamotorworks.com


Thanks,

Ron