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Joe H.
08-20-2002, 07:48 AM
Hey guys...went to start the Wag today, no joy. Tried for approx. 10 minutes and nothing. I did get it to catch once, but it sputtered and died as soon as I gave it a little gas and I couldn't get it restarted. I added some gas to the carb--just a bit--and the motor backfired through the carb and started a merry little blaze all over the intake manifold :eek: :eek: :eek:

This is breaking me in half--I've been driving a friggin' VW wagon for the past three weeks, except for the three days I was able to drive my Waggie. The backfiring through the carb makes me think timing...am I on the right track here? It's 106 outside right now, and I have no shade in the backyard. Please give me areas in which to look. I am seriously considering putting the Wag up for sale to the first person who brings me $2500 :mad: . I have too much to do to drive a vehicle that I can't depend on. Thanks for your help.
PhilSine
08-20-2002, 09:17 AM
It is possibly you have a serious timing issue.

Start by doing a general spark test and then a fuel delivery check. If those check out (and I suspect they will) then advance to go and adjust your timing. Make sure you mark your start point for reference ao you can know how far you've advanced or retarded your timing.

Given the backfire through manifold situation I suspect that your timing is too advanced. Your timing chain may have jumped or just simply stretched beyond normal.
Tourettes
08-20-2002, 10:09 AM
that type III vw have woodgrain on the sides??
sorry couldnt resist. smile.gif
Joe H.
08-20-2002, 10:16 AM
I have had no timing issues up til this point...in fact, the Wag's been running better than ever! As soon as the heat breaks I will run through the Haynes' timing chain check procedure and let y'all know.

Just a thought--how am I going to adjust the timing if I can't get the motor to start? I can start at 10 BTDC and go from there, I suppose.

[ August 20, 2002, 04:17 PM: Message edited by: Joe H. ]
PhilSine
08-20-2002, 03:41 PM
Sometimes they jump a tooth, sometimes they break.
If you determine that the timing is where it should be then check for breakage.

Pull the valve cover and watch to see if the rockers are moving while somebody else cranks it.
andy d
08-20-2002, 08:51 PM
easier is to pop the dizzy cap and watch the rotor. if its not moving,neither is the cam
PhilSine
08-20-2002, 11:42 PM
Good call Andy. I brainfarted on that one. Don't know why I forgot about how much easier that is.....

It was a long day yesterday.
blackjeep2002
08-21-2002, 01:22 AM
Had the same problem with mine. It turned out to be a bad pick up coil inside of the distributor. Just get out your voltmeter and check the resistance across the pick up coil. I had none. I replaced it and it fired right up.
Keith :cool:
Joe H.
08-21-2002, 11:08 AM
Keith, what's the resistance spec for the pickup coil? Thanks for the ideas, guys.
blackjeep2002
08-22-2002, 01:08 AM
I think it is between 200 and 800 ohms. I cannot seem to find my book. :mad: When I do, I'll get the exact specs for you.
Keith :cool: