Why wont my 1976 vw air-cooled bus start?

Question

it's been sitting idle for a little while whilst i wait for a part. i went out to start her up the other day but no luck! I've had the battery out and on charge for 24hrs+ and re-fitted it to the old bus but she still isn't starting! All the dash lights come on and go out as normal there is just nothing there when you turn the engine over, just silence. can anyone please help?

Answer 1

First you need to check the actual battery connections for corrosion or broken wires. If they are ok, check the engine earth for the same thing.

Other faults could be, ignition switch, starter solenoid, starter motor or even a broken wire in the loom somewhere. Get a multimeter (voltmeter) and check for continuity starting from the battery, back to the ignition switch.

If you don't know how to use a multimeter then I wont describe it, get someone who does as it can be dangerous if you stick it in the wrong place.

Is the part you are waiting for anything to do with it?

Anyway, good luck !! and I hope you get the old girl going again :)

Lol, Oopsie!!! I forgot to mention the battery.

Well done Trebor!!

Answer 2

I think you will find the battery needs replacing, you said you charged for 24hrs refitted then you had lights, that would to a point happen if the battery were dead, Is the battery sealed? if not check the cells but I still think it is the battery.

Answer 3

there a temper mental othbus....my moneys on the points/distributor being at fault....remove dissy cap,remove any moisture ans squirt with wd40....

Answer 4

Keep it simple to start with. How bout checking the engine fuse. Could a blown when disconnecting or reconnecting the battery. Good Luck

T  

Answer 5

Impossible to diagnose over the web with the data. Assuming you have battery power as you say and its connected properly, it could be your ignition/starter key switch, the starter it self. (total guess).

Answer 6

Crawl under and rap your starter with a hammer a couple times. If you don't know where the starter is on your 32 year old vintage VW you should probably sell it. If you own one of these you should be able to do your own basic maintenance.