1972 Volkswagen Beetle Running very hot

STYXISBEST

MEMBER
1972 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
68,000 MILES

Hello. I have 2 issues that may or may not be related.
1) This car will idle at first, but after driving will not. For instance when approaching a stop light with the clutch in, it will stall if you do not keep your foot on the accelerator.

2) This car (since I've owned it) has always seemed to run very very hot. After driving for approx 15 mins, if you turn the ignition off (or stall out) the car will not restart until it's had sufficient time to 'cool down'. After that, it starts and away you go. It never seems to stall because of this issue though. Meaning I can probably drive for an hour as long as the ignition is never turned off.
Is it possible the fuel is boiling? In any case, am I missing some part of the cooling system or what else could cause this?

1 Reply

JALOPYPAPA

MEMBER
467 POSTS

The air cooled system is pretty rudamentary, but it does have a thermostat. It's an expanding bellows thing between the cylinders on one side. You may be able to see it just above the bottom sheet metal. It's linked to flaps in the bottom of the fan housing. But bugs just run hot anyway and are prone to heat-related damage and problems. One thought: a spark advanced too far will make it idle smoother but run hotter. You might check timing and make sure it's about 5-7 degrees TDC.