TheSamba.com :: View topic - How to turn a Type 3 engine by hand, while still in the car?

Sat Aug 22, 2020 6:01 am

Hello everybody

I have found an exciting Type 3 Variant (369). With injector, automatic, no rust and few miles (yes miles) on the speedometer. But the car has been mostly stationary the last 25 years.

Now I wanted to turn the engine by hand to see if everything is free so far. With the Beetle a little thing, only with the correct open-end wrench at the back of the crankshaft and turn.

With type 3 it is not so easy. After the crankshaft follows the case with the fan wheel and the hose connection to the air ducts. The rubber sleeve is gone, but I can hardly get into the area of the crankshaft.

I don't want to remove the whole engine or disassemble it into small pieces yet at the moment.

Does anyone have a trick or tip?

Thanks a lot

Sat Aug 22, 2020 6:34 am

All you need to do is remove the cover from the pulley shroud (this is found right in front of your generator). There are two clips, one on either side that need to be released in order for it to come off. You can then put a wrench on the nut for the generator pulley and turn the motor. You may have to put some tension on the belt in order to create enough friction to turn the larger pulley.

I can't remember what size the generator nut is as I installed an alternator years ago. For me, a 10mm socket on a low profile socket wrench does the trick along with light pressure on the belt as I turn. I hope this helps...good luck!

Jon

Sat Aug 22, 2020 12:56 pm

FastyOrange wrote: All you need to do is remove the cover from the pulley shroud (this is found right in front of your generator). There are two clips, one on either side that need to be released in order for it to come off. You can then put a wrench on the nut for the generator pulley and turn the motor. You may have to put some tension on the belt in order to create enough friction to turn the larger pulley.

I can't remember what size the generator nut is as I installed an alternator years ago. For me, a 10mm socket on a low profile socket wrench does the trick along with light pressure on the belt as I turn. I hope this helps...good luck!

Jon

It's either a 19mm or 21mm, actually.

Sat Aug 22, 2020 4:33 pm

For my 55 amp Geo Metro alternator, it is a 10mm nut. Glad someone knew the size for the stock generator!

Jon

Sun Aug 23, 2020 12:09 pm

I usually squeeze the belt while using a crescent wrench.

I leave my belt looser than on a Bug since it's not driving thge fan, just the generator, and its easier on the belt and gen bearings.

Sun Aug 23, 2020 12:14 pm

$5 Remote Starter Button from Harbor Freight comes in handy working by yourself!
It might turn it over, but won't hurt anything if it can't.
Are All the spark plugs still in it because it's rusted up tight if any are missing.