Unleaded ok in 1500 1969 Beetle?

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WIZ
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Unleaded ok in 1500 1969 Beetle?

Post by WIZ »

I have a 1969 1500 single port beetle. Will the engine be ok with unleaded or do I need to put additive in when I fill up?

Ian


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Tony Z
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Re: Unleaded ok in 1500 1969 Beetle?

Post by Tony Z »

if it was maintained according to VW's specs, then yes, unleaded is OK.
VW's always specified hardened seats in the cylinder heads. Unfortunately, not every rebuilt cylinder head was built as it should have been and from time to time you find them with cast iron seats - these cannot be run on unleaded without additives.
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Re: Unleaded ok in 1500 1969 Beetle?

Post by WIZ »

Thanks!
Unfortunately not aware of the history. Guess I'll run unleaded and see.

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Re: Unleaded ok in 1500 1969 Beetle?

Post by fig »

If you are running unleaded on unknown heads, pay close attention to the gaps when you do your regular (every 5,000km) tappet adjustments. If the gaps keep closing, that's a sign your valve seats are receding, meaning they're not unleaded compatible.

A friend of mine in Germany who has a 1949 Beetle says he only adds lead additive every third tankful, with no problems.
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