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 Tappets
These hang down the sides of the engine and the easiest way to reach them is by
removing the rear wheels. The two tappet covers are held in place by spring
clips (right) which are prised off by a screwdriver. If you remove the spark
plugs this will make it easier for the engine to be turned over. All tappets are
set to 6 thou (cold) unless a sticker in the engine compartment states
otherwise. Number 1 cylinder is on the right of the engine (viewed from the
rear) at the flywheel side, number 2 is on the same side but is nearest to you,
number 3 is on the left side, flywheel side and number 4 is on the same side
nearest to you. Turn the engine with a spanner until the rotor arm matches up
with notch on the distributor rim. This is number 1 firing stroke, to confirm
this look at the timing marks on the crankshaft pulley, they should line up with
the line in the crankcase. Both valves are closed on number 1 and the tappets
are ready for adjustment. Slacken the lock nut of and adjust the screw if necessary
(you should feel a slight gripping of the feeler gauges) retighten the lock nut.
Turn the engine 90 degrees and repeat the procedure for number 2 cylinder 90
degrees, until you have done all the cylinders.
Distributor
 Examine
the condition of the spark plugs, they should be a brownish Colour but it is
always best to fit new ones, Set the gap to 23 thou. Check the condition of the
carbon bush in the distributor cap to see if it has worn down (if in doubt
change it) along with the rotor arm. The contact breaker points should be
renewed and set to the desired gap. All engines are strobe timed at 7 and a
half degrees b.t.d.c , Automatics with a torque converter are set at t.d.c there
are so many variations so it is best to phone your local VW Dealer up and check
it. The engine should be timed at idle speed with the vacuum advance
disconnected and plugged. Static timing is a lot easier but not so
accurate
Carburettor
The air cleaner should be removed, if it is a oil bath type then thoroughly wash
it out with solvent and
replace with fresh oil 0.25 litres. If a paper filter
then this should be replaced. The engine should be
warmed up and set at fast tick over. Screw in the volume screw until the motor
starts to falter, out until it has the same effect, and then to the mid way
point which should make it run evenly. The fan belt tension should be half inch,
the pulley splits in two and has shims in the middle. Remove shims to tighten
the belt.
Other Jobs
Top up the Battery and lubricate it's terminals with petroleum jelly, top up the
brake fluid reservoir if necessary and windscreen bottle. Check all lights and
instruments, don't forget to check tyre
pressures and lubricate all locks and hinges, and after you have done all that
go in and have a nice brew.
Why not print out my check
list , so you can tick off the jobs you have done.
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Want to know if there is a VW event on this weekend then please
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e-mail: Shane@VolksWest.co.uk
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spin off to a show below?