1968 Volkswagen Beetle Bug won't start, have tried everythi

1968 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
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WORAUG
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  • 4 POSTS
1968 Volkswagen Beetle 4 cyl Two Wheel Drive Manual

I'm at a loss as to why I can't get my bug to start. I have:

Rebuilt the carburetor
Replaced the ignition coil
Replaced the starter/solenoid
Repaired the distributor
Replaced the spark plugs
Checked that it's getting fuel to the carburetor (the pumps working)
Replaced the fuel filter
Checked the battery

The engine sounds like it's turning over just fine, but it refuses to start, and drains the battery in less than 5 minutes.

I'm no master electrician, but I can't find any shorts anywhere, all the fuses are fine. I haven't been able to test the generator, but to the best of my knowledge, that won't cause the car not to start.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. I've been fighting with this thing for three weeks, and I can't afford to take it to a mechanic.
Dec 16, 2009 at 9:24 AM
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MHPAUTOS
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Hi there,

Check the compressions,

Check that theres 12V at the + side of the coil,

Check that you have spark at the coil when cranking, hold coil lead (dist end) just of the dist body and have it crank over you should have a good strong spark.

Check all lead are ok, check spark at each lead, do same as for coil.

take off air cleaner and pump throttle with a torch check fuel is spraying into carby.

do this and get back tome with what you find.

mark (mhpautos)
Dec 16, 2009 at 4:26 PM
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WORAUG
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Everything you mentioned checks out, except the compression. I don't have the tools to test that.
Dec 19, 2009 at 10:03 AM
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MHPAUTOS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 31,937 POSTS
You will have to get the comps checked, if they are low you wont get it running.

Mark (mhpautos)
Dec 19, 2009 at 1:29 PM
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