60s VW Beetle towed vehicles
I am interested in any and all information concerning using a 1960s era (1965) VW Beetle as a towed vehicle. Pluses and minuses. Dos and don'ts. Thanks.
Forum Discussion
Seniorfirsttimer wrote:
Wolfe, what are those instructions if you don't mind?
Tire pressure per sticker in glove box. Air them like other cars and it will handle VERY POORLY. Normally 10 PSI less in front than back.
Oil change every 3000 miles (remember, there is no oil filter!)-- and drop the screen and clean it. 30 wt unless it is really hot, then 40 wt. Oil door hinges with a couple of drops of oil.
Valve adjustment every 6000 miles. Chassis lube. Check front wheel bearing end play (push in/out at the top of the tire. If it clunks, you need to tighten it. Correct end play is just a little/just so there is more than zero.
Tune up (points, plugs, condenser) every 12,000 miles. Adjust brakes at the same time. Adjust clutch free-play.
Be sure that the steering box has gear lube in it. If leaking badly, you can pack it with grease. To access, remove the spare tire and then the small "D" shaped door (one phillips screw). You can also adjust the play in the box while you are there.
I am sure if I had my hands on it, I would remember the "rest of the story". A basic complete on one of these took me about 4 hours. But, I was young and fast. Can still do it/have all the tools, but no longer as young or as fast!
With proper care, they were a great car. If driven and not maintained, a real money pit.
