Checking and adjusting the angle of the closed state of contacts (VW Beetle)

Examination

Start the engine and set the speed to approximately 1000 rpm. Read the contact angle.

Increase the RPM by approximately 2 times. The gauge needle should not deviate more than ±1° from the previous reading. A greater deviation indicates wear on the distributor shaft. In this case, the ignition distributor must be replaced.

Compare the measured value with the required one.

Required value: 44-50° (50-56%); Acceptable limits: 46-58° (46-64%).

This means that new breaker contacts must be adjusted to the required value, but used contacts should not be adjusted until the closed angle is within the permissible limits.

Adjustment

Remove the distributor cap and its rotor.

Loosen the mounting bolt "a" on the breaker contact. At starting speed (engine rotation by the starter) use a screwdriver to change the distance between the contacts until the measuring device shows the correct value of the angle of their closed state (44-50°).

Tighten the mounting bolt and check whether the angle value has gone beyond the permissible limits.

Assemble the ignition distributor and check the closed contact angle again with the engine running.

Adjust the ignition timing.