Is It The Clutch? 74 bug.

Very doubtful it's clutch.

Sounds more like ignition-related.

Look for: Loose push-on terminals on coil. Bad coil.

Intermittent failure *inside* distributor. '74 stock distrib has vac advance. Check the tiny flex pigtail on the advance plate to be sure it is not broken.

Points worn out/pitted.

Maybe fuel-related, but I doubt it.

Speedy Jim

You mention "Only up in higher rpm". This could indicate a clutch slipping, if you feel the vehicle loosing power whilst the engine increases it's rpm.. You've nailed it. Otherwise Speedy Jim sugestions are sound as always..

J.

Clutch...

First and second wont feel so bad until its really BAD..

But the first sign of a worn clutch is 4th gear slipping..

like your giving it gas and nothings happening..

ALSO!, Check the connection to the idle solenoid on the side of the carb, If that connection is poor it can die just from vibration because its shutting off the gas to the carb.., Also be sure the thing has not un-screwed from the side of the Solex...

Sorry couldnt resist.. 15 VW's in my past..

Rob

Rob i will check the solenoid connection but you seem to have summed up my problem perfectly.