Interesting Ignition Revelation

Randall Brink · 2005-02-08T17:30:08+00:00

I installed a factory new engine and replaced all electrical, ignition and fuel distribution system components this Dec.-Jan. Never reeally got everything running right, but acceptable at times. The engine sounded "restrained" if that's a proper way to describe it, and it had major hesitations in accleration and was generally low on power. I was at once tweaking the settings and learning to live with a disappointing outcome to my restoration.Then yesterday morning, I was cruising down the Interstate when--*pop-pop*-- total engine failure. Got off to the side of the road, checked all obvious sources of trouble, distributor cap, wires, plugs in the heads, fuel, etc., etc. Nothing appeared out of the ordinary, but the engine would not even fire.I was ready to give up; was shaking my head and talking on the cell phone ready to arrange the tow (this would have been the third tow since engine replacement) when an amazing thing happened.A Good Samaritan stopped on the margin behind me and inquired about the situation. When stuck by the roadside, I ususally greet the arrival of the well-meaning motorist with a mixture of gratitude and dismay, as usually the well-intentioned person would like to help but knows nothing whatsoever about VWs. In this case, though, I was lucky, and the volunteer was a VW expert who performs roadside service.We proceded with diagnostics of fuel and ignition and eventually removed the SVDA Distributor with Quadra-Fire electronic ignition and replace with an old reliable .009. Jockeyed the dist. around a little, beetle fired right up, and off I went. Now what's interesting about this whole long saga is that as I was limping back to my shop with the loaner dist., I noticed that Bug was running like my Beetles of old--snappy acceleration, no hesitation, no vibration, rattling; no feeling of an engine "restrained" or sluggish. It was a pleasure to drive.I'm not condemning electronic ignition, except to say that my reason for installing it was to...

Feb 08, 2005 21 Replies

Rate this thread:

Dennis Wik 21 years ago

I like the 009 as you guys know. I tell myself that it is not just to piss some of you off but at my age who knows. I've made it work great with all carbs except on the bus which still has a hesitation but I will get that right when the weather gets better. Throw the points away though as you can feel the difference with the electronic systems but keep a 009 with points as a back up wraped up in the car just in case you have problems. I keep a spare in my puma luggage area with the tools. Just my opinion of course.

href="

formatting link

">Den's1977 Puma

Vote

Joey Tribiani 21 years ago

i do help out, and do not get my panties wadded up when someone corrects something i post that is wrong....not being self-righteous, just doing my part to make sure people actually get the answers they need...

hell i could nail em all before it shifts to second gear...

Vote

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required