Hello HT.

I know this is a non-Honda thread.

I don't really frequent any other car forums so please bear with me.

My buddy has recently bought a 1972 VW Beetle. The thing has not been driven for 15 years. I wanted to go over to his house and see if the thing would start. I know it's a long shot, but I have heard of cars like this being able to start after being abandoned for a while.

I should also note that there is a bet between a few friends regarding the car. The bet is that if the car starts by March 08 a buddy of mine will pay for a paint job.

I am trying to create a checklist of things to do before trying to fire her up.

Here is what I have came up with so far:

1. replace battery
2. replace plugs and wires
3. change oil
4. replace cap
5. drain gas tank and replace with new gas

Some issues that are bound to come up:

1.Motor might be seized
2.Rust, gunk, crap in gas tank
3.Various malfunctioning parts

I have never really worked on a car this old.

I was hoping to get some of your opinions and experience on the topic.

Any ideas are greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

 

Remove gas tank and flush it, to get rid of any "2.Rust, gunk, crap in gas tank", flush the fuel lines pull and clean the fuel pump, and carburetor, replace the fuel filter.
When you pull the spark plugs squirt some oil into the cylinders and manually crank the engine over a several times, [very important], install new plugs and fire it up, DO NOT rev engine, keep RPM as low as possible.
If the above is done properly and there are no electrical issues, that bug will fire up, blow a lot of smoke for a bit and then should be good to go, good luck. 94

 

I'd replace the points before I'd replace the plugs or wires. If you've never worked on a car with points good luck.

 

Thanks guys.

Keep it coming with the advice

 

what he said

 

Very good point, no pun intended, I haven't worked on a car with points since my 68 chevelle, some 30 years ago, forgot all about points, so points, plugs and condenser. 94