Breathing Problems

Here's the place to come to post when you have questions relating to technical issues or mechanical questions on the 1966 model year.

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VWPOMO1
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Breathing Problems

Post by VWPOMO1 »

Hi,

Will my "breathing" problems stop if I change my PICT 30/31 to a PICT 34? I have 66' with a 1600 running a PICT 30/31 from the original 1300.

Please advise ... thanks all!

Having some trouble posting pictures.
Blue Baron
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Post by Blue Baron »

Can you describe those "breathing problems"?

The Pict 30/31 should work okay on your 1600. Is it a dual port with the carb/manifold adapter, or does it have single port heads?

It's probably a problem with too small jets. The 30/31 replacement carbs usually come with a small 120 main jet, which is barely enough for a 1200. It needs to be enlarged to a 127.5.
VWPOMO1
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Post by VWPOMO1 »

I'll try to post some photos to help out my question.
Thanks, as always.
VWPOMO1
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Post by VWPOMO1 »

Here are some photos.
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VWPOMO1
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Post by VWPOMO1 »

Another pic.
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VWPOMO1
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Post by VWPOMO1 »

One more.
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VWPOMO1
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Post by VWPOMO1 »

Okay, now that I got the photos up ... I'll explain a little more. I fail air-care here in B.C. (Canada emissions testing) and my mechanic always says after tweaking the carb (to pass) set-up that this 66' breathes oddly ... because the carb isn't correct to the motor, etc. Also, when, I hit the gas sitting still you can hear it sucking air over the engine noise. Now, I smelling some fuel near the carb area.

Doesn't help?
Kiwi66
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Post by Kiwi66 »

Hi. I cant help with the specific problem, but after having a look at the photos, if it were me I would certainly be doing something to secure the fuel hose onto that fuel filter you have fitted. If you dont use some clips it's only a matter of time before the hose comes loose and you have fuel all over a hot motor. Cheers.
Blue Baron
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Post by Blue Baron »

As long as the fuel line is replaced annually, clamps aren't necessary. I would suggest instead moving the fuel filter under the rear of the car between the engine and the chassis. It's a little tougher to access there, but it eliminates a fire risk.

Okay, you have a replacement 30/31 on a dual-port engine with a manifold adapter for the smaller carb base. A 34 Pict will improve performance slightly, but I'd still advise switching to a larger main jet in your current carb. The main jet is in the bottom of the float bowl and you need to go to a 127.5 or 130.
Kiwi66
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Post by Kiwi66 »

Hi. I agree with the recommended new location. Have mine as recommended by BB. But having seen a local VW go up in smoke better to secure the fuel line with clips and reduce the risk in my view. Cheers
VWPOMO1
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Post by VWPOMO1 »

Can any tell by looking at my photos if my engine is a single or dual port?

Thanks!
fatalifeaten
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Post by fatalifeaten »

Dual port. The manifold end castings "part" into 2 intake runners at the head. A single port would look like one continuous pipe, or in some aftermarket setups, the end castings would still be separate but would look like a larger pipe slipped over the smaller center pipe section.

Getting your car to pass emissions is going to be something you want to have a local VW specialist help you with. They'll know your air quality regulations and should have the experience necessary to get you a pass. I'm in Arizona, in the States, and here 1966 and earlier cars are exempted from emissions so I can't help much more than that.
Blue Baron
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Post by Blue Baron »

Yes, I can't believe they're subjecting your old VW to emissions testing. Antique cars are normally exempt. You may want to look into the rules in your province and see if you can get a special use permit.

Honestly, unless you lean it out to the point that it barely runs, your VW is not going to pass a modern emissions test. And that goes double for the 009 distributor. It might be helpful to switch to the old-style vacuum advance distributor. Also, that little constrictive breather tube isn't helping things either (not to mention the Taiwanese air cleaner ...)
VWPOMO1
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Post by VWPOMO1 »

Awesome advice ... thanks so much. My goal is to have this VW running good. Problem is that before I purchased the car - the former owner did these "mods" and I don't think they help much. Another few questions; 1.) what is the difference btween a 34 pict-1 and a 34 pict-3? I've heard that EMPI are the best carbs rights now. 2.) If I get rid of the .009 dist ... do I remove it entirely in favor the the older vac advance system?

Thanks again.
Blue Baron
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Post by Blue Baron »

You would have to remove it entirely if you're replacing it. :lol:

I think the new EMPI carbs are only available as 30 PICTS. And as I said, the mainjets on most of these carbs are too small. You should take it out and check the size. It will be stamped on the jet.
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