Hi, New guy to the neighborhood. My buddy tells me I need a "rebuild kit for my 1964 Beetle(w/55,000 miles-original!). He tells me compresion is 150 in cylinder #1 and drops to about 30lbs. in the others! Where is the best place to get an "engine rebuild kit"? He would like to do the job. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated! I need to get her back on the road! Thank you to all! Andy-Central New York
150# on #1 then 30# on all other cylinders could be a couple of things. The valves on those cylinders might be too tight, the rings on those cylinders could be broken (lotsa smoke though), the wrong type/heat range spark plugs may have "burnt" the pistons, or, what I'd guess, the heads are not bolted on per torque spec. Any of these things could cause low compression. More info is needed B4 buying a "rebuild kit". You might need just a set of new jugs & pistons, which will cost less to buy and install than splitting the case. (which shouldn't need it @ 55K miles)
I agree with the previous posts. 55k is not a lot of miles. These engine are more durable then there reputation. I would suspect the valve adjustment. It amazing how many people don't know they should adjust there valves as often as every other oil change. If it were me, I would pull the engine, put 1835cc cylinder, piston combo. Replace heads with dual port heads (044) and install dual solex, or HPMX carbs. Best way to find parts is get a HotVW magazine. It is filled with ads for parts venders.
You cant just make it an 1800 like that, if you car has the original engine then you have a single relief case, and you need a dual relief case, if not you will not have enough oil circulation and cooling and your engine will overheat. Depends on where you live, you can buy parts if not do it only but only from a place that sell parts for vw's, if they do not specialize in vws then do not buy from them. good luck
you need to retorque the heads then adjust the valves, but if you still have the big stud case without case savers installed be VERY carefull not to pull the studs. btw # 3 should be set at 8 not 6 mm
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