Board Logo

The basics of owning a Type 3?
patrickgc - July 4th, 2011 at 10:34 AM

Hello everyone,

I just bought a 1971 Type 3 and love it. What are the key things I should keep an eye on with that car/engine.

I read somewhere in the forum that the engine could catch fire (previous owner left a fire estinguisher in the car)? What about petrol (I refilled it with Premium and added lead replacement, is that the way to do it)? The beauty loses some oil so I got a bottle today, should I check that often?

Thanks for your help!

Patrick


DirkHedde - July 4th, 2011 at 01:25 PM

you dont need the fuel additive just use straight unleaded but the higher the octane rating the better the premium stuff is best. regarding the fire threat check your fuel lines for perishing cracks. i have heard of the brass fittings coming out nowadays too so perhaps find a way to ensure they stay in place. but an extinguisher is a good thought. i owned a 71 many years ago a great car


Type3Sicko - July 6th, 2011 at 10:36 AM

Throw some pics up when you get the chance (sounds like something I should do fo r certain golf :rolleyes: )if you have the time, pop your guards off and have a look see how much rust that MAY be hiding there. The angle grinder is your friend, so too is your credit card. Have fun.


vwjon - July 6th, 2011 at 04:32 PM

my notch is great, its bloody cold to drive now, it leaks water thru the front scren, and big puddles splash water up inside the pass side behind the dash somewhere, but its still a great ride!
regular unleaded is ok, no need to go crazy.
check oil every week, in a few weeks you'll know how much its useing, i check mine every couple of months.
check fuel lines for cracks, remove engine mounted fuel filters (put it under the fuel tank)
and keep your eyes peeled for spares, guards, bumpers, glass, the odd car, maybe a kombi as well and you'll soon be a nutter like the rest of us!!:D


patrickgc - July 6th, 2011 at 10:16 PM

Thanks mate, I appreciate the help!! I went to John Sherman on the Gold Coast and we had a chat for a little over an hour. He gave me so many information I am still digesting....