48IDA's; Things They Don't Tell You: It's Impossible

[croSSeduP]

Hey,
First time IDA user here in my '67 Sedan. So, I've discovered that it's impossible to install the 3/4 side carb. No matter what I do I cannot get a hand back there to drop a washer and a nut onto the stud near #3. I've taken the carb top off and still... I can't even get close getting a hand back there to put a washer/nut on the stud to tighten it down. Help?
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Please check my '67 sedan project progress!
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=502253&highlight=

[nsracing]

Just because you can't does not mean others can't.

People have been installing IDAs in VWs since way back. You will figure it out.

[Glenn]

Put the manifold on first with the carb off. Use steel hardware so you can grab them with a magnet if needed. Use jet nuts with a 3/8" hex head. I use a 3/8 swivel socket on a 6" locking extension and a 1/4 drive ratchet. I place a paper towel over the socket and push the nut on. That way it doesn't come off until you tighten it and remove the wrench.

Then install the carb the same way.
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Glenn
74 Beetle Specs | 74 Beetle Restoration | 2180cc Engine
"You may not get what you pay for, but you always pay for what you get"

Member #1009

#BlueSquare

[Danwvw]

Yeah, that's the secret a little nut. Found some 10mm in 12pt steel nuts that I am going to try! 11mm brass in hex might work but may be a little long to get the sparkplug wrench on. Maybe a 1/4" X 10" flex drive and handle.
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1960 Beetle And 1679cc DP W-100 & Dual Zeniths!

[Glenn]

These are all M8 nuts

IDAs in my 74

IDAs in a 67

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Glenn
74 Beetle Specs | 74 Beetle Restoration | 2180cc Engine
"You may not get what you pay for, but you always pay for what you get"

Member #1009

#BlueSquare

[Dan Ruddock]

OG 36hp shroud helps.

[Glenn]

I cut holes in the fender well so I can access #1 and #3.

I also use NGK BPC6ES plugs which have a 5/8 hex head vs the 13/16 of the BP6ES. This way you have more room to get the socket on.

And again I use a 5/8 deep swivel socket on a 6" locking extension and a 3/8 ratchet.

You see, it's all about using the right tools and a bit of trickery.
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Glenn
74 Beetle Specs | 74 Beetle Restoration | 2180cc Engine
"You may not get what you pay for, but you always pay for what you get"

Member #1009

#BlueSquare

[Dale M.]

Glenn nails it....

My version...

Dale
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“Fear The Government That Wants To Take Your Guns" - Thomas Jefferson.

"Kellison Sand Piper Roadster" For Street & Show.
"Joe Pody Sandrover" Buggy with 2180 for Autocross (Sold)
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All suggestions and advice are purely my own opinion. You are free to ignore them if you wish ...

[Glenn]

Dale, the locking extension is a worthwhile addition. It prevents the socket from coming off the extension and staying on the nut.
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Glenn
74 Beetle Specs | 74 Beetle Restoration | 2180cc Engine
"You may not get what you pay for, but you always pay for what you get"

Member #1009

#BlueSquare

[jason]

I have short manifolds, more fun. I use a coat hanger or small rod too. Put the nut and washer on, put it against stud and slide them down. Easier than trying to get two fingers on them, spin them on with one finger.

[Rome]

Glenn, I have absolutely no experience with 48IDAs so I'm approaching you for practical experience. But looking at the 4 nuts that hold the carb to each manifold, isn't there just as little space to get the inside two nuts onto the carb-manifold flange bolts due to the closeness of the fan shroud sides? Even with the air filter assembly and base plate completely off it seems this would be another delicate operation, especially the left carb's front inner attachment nut.

The 2nd 48IDA engine photo you posted appears to be John Plow's 2+ liter in his Euro '67. This engine is now for sale on theSamba; built by the same expert that did Glenn's current engine.

[Glenn]

Roland, having the nut wedged into the socket makes it real easy to get it threaded on to the stud.
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Glenn
74 Beetle Specs | 74 Beetle Restoration | 2180cc Engine
"You may not get what you pay for, but you always pay for what you get"

Member #1009

#BlueSquare

[74 Thing]

They make magnets for sockets too so that the fastener won't fall out

https://mrotools.com/522-lang-magnetic-socket-inse...glirvd_bwe

I usually just tear off a small piece of duct tape or gorilla tape and roll it into a ball and put it in my 3/8" socket.

[sled]

honestly it totally depends on what manifolds you are using...
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drive your split.

[croSSeduP]

[croSSeduP]

[richierich]

Remove the decklid and hinges. Big help.

[Glenn]

[jeff68]

One thing that no one mentioned that you need no matter which method or combination of tools you choose. PATIENCE! These kinds of situations require it! Just take your time and you'll get it.

[Dale M.]