Engine will not stay running?

1970 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
70,000 MILES
Avatar
HEATHER DAWN
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I think the choke has stopped working. It will not stay started unless I stay in the car and play with the gas peddle so it doesn't shut off.

I will get it fixed but mechanic is backed up so have to wait.

Will It damage my engine if I drive it that way? Does it matter how far I drive it before I get it fixed.

I just do not want to damage my engine.

Thanks so much.
Aug 23, 2021 at 4:24 PM
Avatar
BORIS K
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 836 POSTS
Hello,

Apart from being very inconvenient you will not damage your engine if the choke does not work. Just keep the engine revolutions high enough for it not to stall until it will idle on its own.

Here is a great video on how to check and adjust the choke/carburetor:

https://youtu.be/iBJkl_31758

Please let us know how you get along.

Cheers, Boris
Aug 23, 2021 at 7:03 PM
Avatar
HEATHER DAWN
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Hi, thanks for this. it was very helpful.
Aug 24, 2021 at 5:05 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,244 POSTS
Hi,

Heather, Boris is correct with everything he mentioned. Have you had any progress with adjustment or repairing the problem? We are interested in knowing.

Take care,

Joe
Aug 27, 2021 at 2:14 PM
Avatar
HEATHER DAWN
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Hi, well it seems my mechanic is backed up so cannot get to it for a couple of weeks. Basically, I am just not driving it much in the meantime.
Thanks for asking.
Aug 28, 2021 at 4:52 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,244 POSTS
Hi,

That seems to be a common issue recently. Please feel free to let us know if there is anything we can do to help you.

Take care and keep us updated.

Joe
Aug 28, 2021 at 2:42 PM
🔧 Tools & Auto Repair Parts
Find automotive tools, diagnostic equipment, and replacement parts for your next repair.
Shop on Amazon →
Paid affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Ask a new question

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle