i was given a 1978 convertible from a dear friend that just could not maintain it anymore.Iv got a few questions as i am not familiar with the bug.It needs front shocks or struts,Any suggestions?also rear shocks it seems to sag in the rear.I noticed at sometime in its life someone disconnected or cut the piping for the drivers side heat,i have the piece but until i can figure out how to reconnect it is heated air being piped under the back seat? im sure i have many more questions but this is a start i just got it yesterday.Thanks for any help

 

Oh and the spedometer does not work where should i start with that

 

I have come to realize that my bug was converted to carb,honestly wish it had been left alone but sadly it was not.i pulled the distributor cap and it apparently has been converted to electronic ignition,there are no points.i also noticed that it must be a centrifical advance distributor as there is no vacuume advance on it.i am still trying to figure out if it's the stock engine or not.after much much reading about flat spots on acceleration I'm wondering if the distributor is playing a role in it not running well under acceleration and backfiring.i am away from the car on vacation which is killing me .i will dig deeper into the car when I return

 

Anyone know of a forum that actually answers questions on the older bugs?

 

I'm not sure on your 78 Beetle but when I had my 1968 Camper 1600 the speedo was driven from a cable connected to the n/s front hub cap.

Or you could have Vehicle Speed Sensor (G68).

I think you posted another thread on a Beetle distributor changed to electronic, which I replied to. The electronic ignition has a different ignition coil to the standard Beetle with contact breakers. The primary resistance is lower.

Please tell us your car spec in your signature

 

When I return home this weekend I will dig up exactly what has been done to the bug there was quite a bit of paperwork that came with it I'm not sure if it is the original motor or not