HELP! Can't figure out what is wrong...

[katt68]

I can't figure out what is wrong with my '68 Beetle. I was driving and lost acceleration, ability to stay running. I have taken it to a mechanic,
who doesn't normally work on VW's. He thinks it is the tranny. Thanks, Katt

[vdubdriver]

Why does he think it's the transmission? Is it an automatic or manual transmission? Does the engine otherwise idle ok and rev up when the clutch is disengaged?

[81pumagtc]

Sure does not sound like a transmission issue to me...I would get a better mechanic.


Dave

[clintonddk]

Sounds like a vacuum leak.

[katt68]

Here are a few more details on the problem. Before it died, I was smelling burning oil. Once I stopped, on the highway no less.
I checked the plugs, wires, distributor cap, all looked fine. I checked the oil once I got the car running enough to get off the highway.
The oil barely registered, so I got 3 qts, all went in. It still would not start. Once the mechanic looked at it he told my husband that the oil
"looked" thicker than "normal" oil. I put in 10W40 at the gas station. Any ideas???

[vdubdriver]

The stock VW engine oil capacity is only 2.5 quarts. Running the engine with extra oil could cause the front oil seal to fail. Disregard if you have an aftermarket oil sump installed. Sorry I can't help with the original problem.

[clintonddk]

Do you have the ability to do a compression check. Do you live on the north side or south side of Mt. pleasant? I get up that way once in awhile.

[katt68]

I live almost in town on the NW side near Lincoln Road/ Pickard Rd