Metal or paper gasket?

[pat7582]

I'm rebuilding my first engine, an early 1966 1300 without the o-ring crankshaft. Should it have a metal or a paper gasket between the crankshaft and the flywheel? Thanks.

[HRVW]

The metal is a carryover from the 1200/40 HP engines.

I would try the paper and see what end play there is first. You can try the metal if it works better.

(VW mechanic/engine builder)

[glutamodo]

While the change did happen during the 1200 era, the change wasn't to the 40HP crankshaft, rather it was to the 6v/180mm flywheel. However, I'd not really be too concerned about it - I do the same as HRVW said above, use the one that wants to work best in setting up initial endplay.

FYI - here's the scoop on the the different gaskets: