Engine will not stay running?

1970 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE

70,000 MILES

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

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

HEATHER DAWN

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Hi, thanks for this. it was very helpful.

Aug 24, 2021 at 5:05 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓Experienced Mechanic
110,240 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

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

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓Experienced Mechanic
110,240 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

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