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Throwback Tech: How to change a VW Superbeetle’s engine

This vintage car has significantly influenced the automotive industry

Vintage VW Superbeetles are beautiful vehicles. With the flat-four rear-engine configuration and a built-in oil cooler, the Beetle was the go-to car in the 50s, 60s, and 70s. The Beetles in the 1950s could travel from 0 to 60 mph in 27.5 seconds, with a fuel consumption of 36 mpg with the 34-hp engine. It is considered to be one of the most extraordinarily influential cars of the 20th century.

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To get started, open the rear-engine. Make sure you identify where all pertinent engine parts are located. Look for the four bolts that hold the engine onto the transmission. The engine case has three studs. The input-shaft sticks out from the middle of the transmission, fitting directly through the pressure plate in the pilot bearing. 

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Disconnect all objects that are attached to the engine. VW Bug’s fuel lines are generally threaded through the fan shroud and attached to the fuel pump. Start by detaching it and tying it off so the fuel doesn’t leak out. Next, detach the accelerator cable that is attached to the carburetor linkage.

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Undo the heater tubes that connect to the exchange boxes in the engine. The small heater control wires on each side, you will see that the wiring is connected in two locations.  Be aware of the alternator/generator’s cluster of wires. Take a piece of masking tape to mark the wires to ensure that you put them back in the same place.

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There is a coil that has a group of wires that need to be taken out. Mark the proper place with tape to remember the spot. Take out the screws that hold the front breast plate in place, then lift to remove.
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Remove the bolts that connect the engine to the transmission by using a ratcheting wrench. Find the one starter bolt from the engine compartment, located on the passenger side of the car.
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Take a floor jack, and place it under the oil sump cover. This step is best completed when on a lift. If you are not using a lift, then jack the car up from the brace under the transmission. The other three bolts and the engine are now on the input-shaft. Be sure that the car is standing securely on the jack before you proceed.
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Next, separate the engine from the transmission. Take the exhaust pipe shooters, and twist them to remove. It is then time to lower the engine down onto the jack.
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Lower the jack where the engine was resting. Roll the engine out from under the car. Voila! The engine will easily slide out!
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Story and images via Chirco  

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