Volkswagen Beetle
1972 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE 1200L
Having completed a full year in my ownership, the time had come for the Brilliant Orange Beetle to have its annual MoT and service.
One of the little jobs that needed doing before the annual test was replacing a headlight bulb. It’s (usually) a simple enough task in a modern car – carried out in the time it takes me to type this sentence, in fact – but often not quite so straightforward when it comes to your first encounter with a much older car.
Accessing the Beetle’s headlight involves the removal of three screws, each of which has a different fixing. One in particular is so long that I was worried that the engine would drop out when I finally unscrewed it!
Identifying and then obtaining a replacement bulb proved once again how good the parts back-up for old school VWs is, and the task itself was no problem and it was soon time to re-fit the retaining screws so ‘Harry’ could venture safely out at night once more.
The Beetle has enjoyed some good outings in recent weeks, including the splendid Easter Sunday Great North Road Vehicle Gathering at Stibbington Café near Peterborough, in good VW company with a 1971 early bay camper and a ’98 Caddy MkI pick-up truck. Being stock height, the Beetle had no problems with the kerb ramp – unlike others I could mention!
Its most recent trip was to VW Aircooled Works at Whaplode, Lincolnshire, where the pre-MoT tasks and service will be in expert hands.