Howto Install a VW Beetle Hot Start Relay (Hard Start Relay)

⚫ COMPATIBLE RELAYS ⚫
6V ▶ amzn.to/31yvrXc
12V ▶ amzn.to/2KUwieM
I had some issues starting my VW Beetle, all voltages check out, and all continuity is good... even jumping the VW Beetle starter motor by VW Beetle hot wiring the VW Beetle starter motor directly to the VW Beetle battery turns the VW Beetle engine over just fine.
Whats wrong?
The VW Beetle wiring got old and just can't carry the proper amount of current to make the VW Beetle starter solenoid pop off, so it will not turn over.
The solutions:
This VW Beetle hard start relay allows for a sort of bypass to feed current directly from the VW Beetle battery into the VW Beetle starter solenoid bypassing all the wiring throughout the car. The existing VW Beetle wiring only has to perform the simple task of feeding enough current (not much) to close a small relay.
This same trick works on all air-cooled VWs, VW Beetle, VW Thing, VW Karmann Ghia, VW Type-3... even Buses, however on a VW Bus the wiring will not pass over the floor in the rear, you'll have to do the work inside the VW engine compartment or under the VW Bus instead.
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[@DuckmanCycles]

⚫ COMPATIBLE RELAYS ⚫ 6V ▶ amzn.to/31yvrXc 12V ▶ amzn.to/2KUwieM

[@hhfilmsyt]

I have a 63 and I can’t find a wire that crosses over the tunnel

[@secondlooksformen3836]

"Better than a stick in eye" f u * k"

[@DuckmanCycles]

@@hhfilmsyt There should be several wires that cross over the tunnel unless its all custom or the batter has been relocated!

[@tecate9408]

73 was my first VW. I remember finding hills to park then later bump start, when I had no money for a new starter. Great little car for cruising the coast and Mexico surf trips

[@DuckmanCycles]

Haha, I had to do that in my Nissan recently... thanks for comment! :-)

[@georgeswindle3789]

Wish I had known this 45 yrs ago. The "How to fix your Volkswagen" book my Dad bought didn't give this info. I went from a 16 yr.old kid fixing my Bug every week, so I had some wheels, to a ASE Master Auto/Heavy Trk Tech. Thank you VOLKSWAGEN

[@DuckmanCycles]

Haha great story George, thanks much for sharing! That is the kind of thing that happens!

[@mellowd6085]

My man!! I've been chasing this damn gremlin for weeks now. No more will I have to make sure there is a hill for me to park on before I take the beetle out. I felt like this was the problem but didn't know where to start fixing it. Haven't done it yet but I'm sure this will do the trick! Thanks again!

[@VWRICH23]

It will solve your issues.. I did it the other day and started right up 👍

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thanks so much you guys! Glad I could help!

[@themctavishfamily5336]

Duckman…you are a LIFESAVER!!! After days of messing with trying to install a Ford solenoid that was suggested to me by several VW guys, I decided to abandon that idea a go with your video. Easy to understand and fired on the first try!!! I wish I would’ve just done your suggestion first and I would’ve been done days ago! Thanks man!!!

[@RickPrinceOfficial]

This solution worked perfectly! I'd replaced everything in the system. This solved the entire problem for $10. Thank you!!!

[@DuckmanCycles]

Awesome! Glad I could help! Thank you for the comments!

[@bobcherry2202]

This was my issue exactly..68 beetle that sat for 3 years....no good on my part but the wife decided that the house was my project instead. Thanks for the post. Looking forward to going into the archives

[@russellarnold7220]

I’ve had this problem for about a year but had no idea what caused it, found it mentioned in a forum but they didn’t say how to wire up the relay so I searched you tube and found your post. You explained it really well and I’ve now fixed the problem. Thanks heaps for your help.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Oh wow! So glad that helped you! Thanks so much for the comment!

[@jennysolomon-haase9103]

Thx SO much for this tutorial! I'm glad it was still available to view. I looked at so many that talked about more than I needed to know. So straight forward and easy, even for a dyi gal! Saved me a starter motor.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Glad it could help you! I have been getting a lot of feedback on this one recently. Thanks so much!

[@alanloutzenhiser4352]

Duckman, thank you for this video. My Baja would not start today after taking it to a car show. Ended up having to push start it. Came home, found this video, decided to give it a shot and the bug fired right up. Thanks again

[@DuckmanCycles]

Too awesome! So glad I could help! Thanks for the comment!

[@timdolan4591]

I have been chasing my problem for quite a while as well. The money shot for me was at four minutes. I jumped that wire to the battery and life became good. Being a frugal SOB I don’t think I want to afford a relay I’ll just pop the backseat and jump the wire. Truly thank you very much

[@DuckmanCycles]

LoL I have a friend that starts his that way! Thanks dude!

[@terrymask3592]

I followed your instructions and this fixed my 1971 vw. Thanks for this amazing video!💯

[@DuckmanCycles]

Glad it helped! Thank you!

[@ES4406]

we got that Sunday night here.... rain bands... Thanks for the upload!

[@DuckmanCycles]

The rain just started here minutes ago! Hoping this doesn't get too serious tonight!

[@dan57844]

Glad I found this. I'm going to try it. My auto-stick 68 KG has frequently failed to start -- especially if the battery is ever-so-slightly below top voltage. Not even a click from the solenoid. But with a boost, it always starts. Thanks!!

[@DuckmanCycles]

So glad it worked! Thanks so much for the comment!

[@alexmelchert3436]

Thanks. I used this to fix my daughter’s 72 super bettle. Great video didn’t take long.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Glad it helped Thank you so much for leaving the comment!

[@michaelo1492]

Great tip, hope you had a great Labor Day !

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you! 😀😀😀😀

[@trevcessna1723]

Thanks Bro perfect! First one I’ve seen installed under the rear seat which is where I thought it should go! Exactly what I was hoping to find!!

[@DuckmanCycles]

Awesome! Thanks man! Glad I could help!

[@smerd1]

Thanks for the info, I just did this to my 71 bay winddow, it worka great. Going to put one on my 70 beetle now 👍🏼

[@DuckmanCycles]

I think I have to put one on my 72 Super Beetle also! I'm glad it helped you, thank you so much for watching!

[@redheadsoup]

After putting in the new starter, Having been frustrated for years, I found your post. All I can say is AWESOME. Note could not find the diagram so had to watch 4-5 times to figure out the plug ins. Thanks again.

[@johnpergiel9821]

Great video. Followed it step by step and fixed it right up. I thought I might have to replace starter for a $100. This was a $10 fix. Thanks.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Excellent! So glad I could help you!

[@fliptopg6]

Thanks Duckman just used this video to solve my starting issue with my Herbie (68 VW Beetle) worked like a charm so far

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you! Glad I could help!

[@marjangeh]

il get to mine too. tnx Duckman.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Hey thank you for the comment!

[@thomasmcintosh3321]

You had me. But it never gets old you share my sense of humour.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Joke was on you, eh? LoL! Thanks for the comment, man! I'll try to keep up the humor!

[@acleast1176]

Thank you for posting this video! I was able to fix the no start issue on my wife's 1968 Karmann Ghia.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Awesome! So glad that worked out for you! I bet she is happy now!

[@marlonalva]

I believe you just saved my life and my bug!! I have had this issue for years!!!! I almost sell my bug because of it. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👍🏻

[@marjangeh]

dont be so impatient man?? Duck shit is here................

[@DuckmanCycles]

Dun dun dunnnn.... DUCKSHIT!

[@mukashi911]

Very well done and simply explained!! Thanks!!!

[@aaronvdubz1742]

My wife’s beetle died going down the street. It cracks but won’t start. Changed the fuel pump. Gotta do a few other tests but I’m tempted to just pull that wire and see if it starts touching the battery! Love the video keep making more :)

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thanks so much for the comment! BUT! If it is cranking but not starting, this is not what you need! Check your fuel and for spark. Likely the problem lies there! :)

[@aaronvdubz1742]

@@DuckmanCycles new pump installed. still no go, guess now is checking the distributor, coil and possible stuck starter

[@drt6680]

Awesome video! I was just dealing with this problem on my 71 super I was afraid it was F'd up from who ever put a 1962 motor in it, took me a little bit to figure that out lol got to love back stepping to 6v starter in a 12v car that was a big part of my starter problems lol now I just hope there's not alot of damage to the flywheel thanks 12v starter

[@DuckmanCycles]

Ack! Starter mesh problems is bad.... but not too expensive nor hard to fix. Thanks for your comment!

[@brianjohn2894]

hey mate got a 71 bug type1 and the bug was not starting same issue as the VDO thought had to connect relay directly to the starter but after watching this im so ready to do it myself its easy thanks you rock

[@DuckmanCycles]

I hope you got it worked out!

[@fawndHadley-sw6uq]

'73 Beetle.Great video on Hot Start Relay. Easy install It sounded stronger but, still not kickin' over. Had previously put in battery & shop put in starter. This happened last year. 107* heat. Starts dying out, not starting...Shop said oil in pan caused to not start. Runs awhile, then engine gets wet when rains. Doesn't start.... Help Duckman!

[@micaholvera413]

Dont currently need this but will keep this in mind for the future!!! thank you!!!

[@DuckmanCycles]

And thank YOU! This video has re-grown in popularity again in recent weeks. Glad to see it make a come back! Thanks again!

[@craigogilvy5046]

Worked like a dream thanks for this bud

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you for the feedback!

[@stevegearlds7227]

Thanks for the video Duckman. Got me fixed up thanks. Appreciate it man👍🏼

[@DuckmanCycles]

Glad I could help you, thank you so much for the comment

[@guillermonieri4203]

Thank you. Very useful tip.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you very much for your comment, thanks for watching! 😀😀😀😀😀

[@danielbates4137]

As always very interesting and helpful I haven't had that problem with my 72 super but very good to know. Thanks again for the knowledge! Great video

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you Daniel! I really appreciate it! :)

[@Nathriel]

Doing a restoration of my 1972 super. I hope I don't have this problem pop up either :)

[@DuckmanCycles]

If it does it's an easy fix :-)

[@jdmeaux]

You right! Soldering is ALWAYS the best way to attach a connector, but crimping works too. Depends how long you want to keep it connected. I rewired a 1967 Fastback completely from front to rear because of bad wires. 3 Days later, I finished and it looked better than factory. Keep dry and SAFE with the blow coming in there. Moe

[@DuckmanCycles]

Yep solder is always better! And agree, depends on how long you want to keep it commented! Good work on the Fastback! Thanks for the comment, the rain just started her from the hurricane a few minutes ago!

[@jdmeaux]

Our prayers are with you and everybody in the Panhandle. It's tough being on that side of these storms. At least we are 30 miles inland, but the flooding is still always a danger here in Lafayette, Louisiana. Moe

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thanks Moe! I'm more worryed about getting to work than any damage, I think we may be alright over here in Pensacola,.... but its too soon to say. Here's hoping! Thanks so much!

[@DuckmanCycles]

⚫ VW General Maintenance Videos ⚫ Watch Now! ▶ kzbin.info/www/bejne/baO6m5eHj76HqbM

[@michaeldockins7466]

Thanks for the video. Worked like a charm!

[@DuckmanCycles]

Excellent! Thank you so much for sharing!

[@jimmymoore9003]

Thanks alot this fixed my problem I couldn't figure out

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thanks! Glad I could help!

[@Volkswagenplanet]

Thanks for doing this video. I just wired my relay up. Car fired right up. Between doing this and changing starter to a autostick type. I hope this takes care of it all. Thank you again. Take care, stay dry, and warm MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU SKEETER , AND BOOMER. NERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOUR FAMILY AS WELL.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you very much kind sir! I'm glad it helped you! The self-supported automatic starter I feel is a better unit, no more dealing with the bushing anymore either.

[@Volkswagenplanet]

@@DuckmanCycles spoke to soon. Back to the same clunk. I just had it running not even a hour ago. Battery is fully charged, it fired up right after I hooked up the relay. I guess its the ignition switch. Time to step away from the car again. Have a good one

[@DuckmanCycles]

@@Volkswagenplanet Just a clunk is kind of a weird thing with so many different starters, so its likely a weird problem. I wonder if your flywheel teeth are a little mangled, or if your starter bolt is too thick or something. Are you using the correct starter D-headed bolt?

[@Volkswagenplanet]

@@DuckmanCycles yes

[@Volkswagenplanet]

Yes to the D shaped bolt. Flywheel is fine. I even spun the engine over 180 degrees to make sure the engine is not locked up. I fired up fine when I put the relay in. Then back to the same issue. This time when the car was running I had rhe gen. and oil light on, brake switch light on dash all on. When I turn the ignition on, no gen or oil light will.come on. I get the click in the engine compartment from the idle selonoid. I just don't know. That's tonight issue to think about at 2 a.m.. Have a good one

[@dylanrodriguez3659]

Thank you for the video easy to understand and very easy to do it

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you! I hope it helped you!

[@drewjeffcoat6969]

I believe you have just solved my issue . Thanks

[@DuckmanCycles]

I sure hope it works for you! :-)

[@johnnyturbo8460]

Just what I needed! Thanks

[@DuckmanCycles]

Glad I could help! Thanks for the comment!

[@CreamAle]

duckman used to taking foot long wood to the face huh... yo but in all seriousness i saw abom work on those brakes and idk if at the time i didnt hear it or what but i had no clue they were yours. then when i was looking for some info on bugs ran into your channel and been catching up on everything since. mighty entertaining and actually informative. keep it up dude and that choptop looks insane, cant wait to see it complete.

[@DuckmanCycles]

I'm always catching a wood in the face. My cheek was sore for 2 weeks after that, I got a pretty good bruise on my cheekbone.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you so much for watching! Its kinda funny that a lot of people don't know who I am... even my own friends watch me on here and don't realize its me until it comes up in conversation LoL! Thanks so much for watching! Lots more stuff to come!

[@dorothyausley8340]

Awesome content! Just what I needed.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thanks for the comment, Dorothy! I hope it helps you!

[@stephenvictorbailey4055]

Great video....very helpful

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you! I hope it helps somebody! 😀😂😀😂😀😂

[@horshak1]

I've had a occosional no start on my '63 bug. F*ck with everything then it will start. Finally replaced the starter and the positive cable (looked original) , 6 mo later it happen again. Short across the solonid and it would start. Tested everything again, then tested the resistance in both battery cables. The ground cable had a much higher resistance so I replaced it. It has worked for over a year without problems, but I will keep this video in mind. Thanks

[@DuckmanCycles]

If you have original wiring it's definitely something to look into! 😁😁

[@shartne]

Your lucky that was not your eye for sure it would have done some really bad damage to your eye huh. That VW is just like the 69 I use to have that was pearl white your bring back memories from the 1976 it was such a dependable car and got 30 miles to the gallon. I drove all over town for hours and hours. LOL My friends and I had some fun in that little car. Thanks for the nice video it was entertaining and contained good info too.

[@DuckmanCycles]

'Yeah, that would have been baaaaaaaad! Thanks for the story and the comment! I like people's VW stories!

[@secondlooksformen3836]

Shar...why not get another Beetle? So much fun!

[@VWRICH23]

Great vid.. Just worked for me. Thank you

[@DuckmanCycles]

Excellent, thank you so much for sharing! Glad I could help! 😎😎😎

[@VWRICH23]

@@DuckmanCycles now gotta start looking into the harness.. Front headlightsand blinker, only 1 side comes on and works 😊

[@saadsalting6975]

Good job

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you!

[@harryloibl5183]

Thanks buddy I’m also looking for ignition wiring

[@DuckmanCycles]

And thank you, I hope you find it!

[@ashikdossajee7533]

Great video, my mk1 golf has the same issue I will be doing this method 😊

[@DuckmanCycles]

Should work fine on there, but the wiring would be different of course! Thanks for the comment!

[@ashikdossajee7533]

@@DuckmanCycles I have the red ignition starter wire near the battery would I not be able to take it from that wire? Or would I have to connect through the starter motor?. Thank you for your help 😊

[@kuakini3]

ya baby good stuff THANKS

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you for the comment! I really appreciate it!

[@shannonwittman950]

Thanks for a quick and easy explanation of this common problem with air-cooled VW's. 1000 years ago I had a super clean 1972 Karmann Ghia coupe. I wish I had internet and KZbin back then because I had this very problem. The only thing my regular VW mechanic could say was that "the starter gets hot, you see, even when its not actually operating. The heat creates resistance to starting. So you just have to wait until it cools down." BTW, he neglected to have real solutions to many things -- which I can count on all fingers of both hands. Thanks again for another informative video! BTW ... I'm thinking of getting a Beetle. I want discs brakes up front. I've read that IRS became standard on Beetles from 1970 onward. And Super Beetles have MacPherson struts up front. I want to be sure I can lower the car an inch or two. Any suggestions as to which year(s) would be best?

[@DuckmanCycles]

I really like 69 Beetles, IRS and not all strange looking like a Super of later years.

[@steveballard1463]

Cool info

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you! 😀😀😀

[@kellyhaynie8649]

Thanks

[@DuckmanCycles]

And thank you!

[@carportchronicles1943]

When I bought my '78 Super, I was told that it had a problem with occasionally not starting. I was also told the owner before him also had the same problem. Neither of them were able find the cause. I drove the car for almost a year, in every weather condition imaginable; snow, rain, 100-degree plus temps, and nice days. Than, finally, it did it after sitting for a hour while I attended my VW Club meeting of all things. All the electronics worked, but there was nothing from the starter, not even clicking from the solenoid. After about 10-minutes of trying, it suddenly fired right up. This happened again two days later. I was stumped, and the only thing I could think of was to replace the starter. Once I had the new starter in the car, I started cleaning all the wiring terminals before hooking everything back up. When I got to the battery cables, I found a previous owner had replaced the terminal for the wire that goes to the voltage regulator. As soon as I hit it with my wire brush, it fell off in my hand. The exposed wire the terminal had been crimped to was also corroded. I cleaned the wire, installed a new terminal, and finished putting everything back together. It's been two months, and I have not had another starting issue. I am certain, the bad terminal was preventing the starter solenoid from activating, even though there was enough power to run other things like the stereo.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Yep, could be! My Fastback was doing something like what you describe last winter, too! It was a simple roadside fix! Good to go! That connection got very hot, too, it was struggling to carry the power for the rest of the car, when I touched it I got a 3rd degree burn. Thanks for sharing! Hope you stick around, I enjoyed this story! Thanks again!

[@secondlooksformen3836]

I appreciate the courtesy you show to all your followers. Your great attitude means a lot! Thanks for sharing your wisdom and experience!

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you so much, I really appreciate that recognition!

[@joserod0777]

Thank you

[@DuckmanCycles]

And thank you for your comment!

[@joserod0777]

I have a 72 bug and won't star till i saw your video, thanks again

[@DuckmanCycles]

I am so glad that it worked for you! Thank you!

[@robertthornhill4379]

hi d.m.c. great video very interesting bob

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thanks Bob! Always thanks! 😋

[@thatbuelldude189]

Love the vids as always Very informative even know i dont own a Aircooled vw And you have plans to bring a baja bug or vw rail to KZbin but with your own flair?

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you thank you! Yes I have a sand rail in the yard that needs to be worked on, too. That's going to be way off in the future though I have many other things in line in front of it. It might even get sold before I get to it lol :-)

[@thatbuelldude189]

@@DuckmanCycles lol Im hoping to bring a 05 Suzuki GS500F to the channel Was going to get a buell blast cause i wanted a harley but not a harley but the deal went south

[@thetrannyshop5596]

Whoa. Whoa. Whoa. Whoa. I don't like beer, but that sounds like a beer I might like.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Its a good one for sure! A little spendy, but I like 'em!

[@pgrayrk]

I use same type of relay setup on bikes I build but put a circuit breaker on battery side of relay cool fix

[@DuckmanCycles]

It gets the job done everytime! Thanks for the comment!

[@reneraniaj9803]

Please make a wiring diagram on how to install starter relay switch.thanks buddy.

[@DuckmanCycles]

I hope this helps! Thanks for the request: www.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/588125.jpg

[@marcorodriguez4436]

I got a 1971 vw super beetle dont know see any clicking there is some power but not enough...i will try this, thanks duckmen

[@DuckmanCycles]

Maybe the solenoid is stuck on the starter, that's something else to check. Sometimes tapping on it while someone turns the key will get it going in which case you need a new starter and not the relay. Hope that helps!

[@marcorodriguez4436]

Thank you sir for your reply, i will do that and see what happens.

[@DuckmanCycles]

I hope you get it figured out! :)

[@F15CDOC1]

Like the video tutorial, I don't know if this is exactly the same problem I'm having. My problem is she starts fine cold, but after driving when she is nice and warm and you stop, say for 10 to 15 minutes, and try to start she will crank 10 to 15 seconds before she starts. Do you think this relay would solve this problem?

[@DuckmanCycles]

No, afraid this relay would be for the cars that DON'T crank. In your case, I would bet your carburetor is boiling over.... as it happens to me, too. Possibly even a minor vapor lock situation. You'd probably be best served by opening the decklid when you park to let the heat out. Yes, really that simple. Give it a try! Hope that helps! Thanks so much for the comment and question!

[@derekobidowski3301]

beetles 68 and on have multiple connectors in the harness. as i got a 65 bug and don't have the connections under the back seat as i be mounting the relay on the starter motor as its a new starter thats 12 volt as the vehicle been converted to 12 volt. still the 6v ring gear as i got a wosp starter as ill mount the relay to a bracket on one of the bolts on the solenoid cover as most mount the relays as close to the starter to get the power.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Good job! I mounted a couple of them right on the solenoid just the same!

[@webstermacomber2680]

Hello Duckman, New viewer for old video. I tried the relay install for the vw issue you discussed. Makes sense, but it didn’t work. I’m very familiar with relays cause I once owned a fuel injected bug. Anyway, could it be that the relay thing only works if the ignition switch works all the time? When it won’t turn over, I just jump the starter from under the seat and next time it will start

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thanks so much for visiting, but I don't understand the question. If the relay was in fact good and everything else was in proper working order, and you had it all connected properly it should work just fine. Beyond that I can only guess what's wrong, being electronic I have no way to diagnose it from here. Its not something you could just tell me nor something I can just see a picture of. I'll need to diagnose the circuits properly with continuity checkers, and that's what I would recommend you should do. A Volkswagen wiring diagram for your year of vehicle might be helpful. Good luck to you!

[@EmanDeluxeVLOGS]

After a new starter and bushing, all terminations are cleaned and greased up, it's time for Misty to get a hard start relay. 👍

[@DuckmanCycles]

Doesn't hurt to have this.... that before you put this in are you able to jump it with a screwdriver? I thought you were having another problem for some reason

[@EmanDeluxeVLOGS]

yep jumps perfect with screwdriver. Not pulling solenoid in on the new starter with 🔑 turn.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Ahhhh, I see! But you do get SOME voltage at the wire under the back seat when you turn the key?

[@EmanDeluxeVLOGS]

6.4 at the battery- 6.1 at the starter from switched wire. I feel the solenoid is just not having it..

[@EmanDeluxeVLOGS]

After sleeping on it I had a hunch that the solenoid was not strong enough. Can you believe a rebuilt Bosch starter brand new out of the box had a tired pitted solenoid.... Of course... I swapped it with one that was knowingly working fine and starter came to life! So pumped right now

[@apassionfortangling3671]

Lol, great video!

[@DuckmanCycles]

I appreciate it! Thanks man! 😀😀😀😀😀😀😀

[@andycampos9223]

Hey quick question my 64 doesn’t have a voltage regulator so the ignition switch goes to the 87, 85 to ground, 30 to power, but now since I don’t have the regulator, what do I put for 86 pin?

[@DuckmanCycles]

Hmmm.... I think you're waaaaay mixed up. Voltage regulator does not matter for anything in this video, nor does whether you even have one or not. 87 goes to the starter, not from the switch, its the first wire connected in this video. These things were discussed in the video! While the video does not contain a diagram, I probably should have put one. Technically I put 86 and 85 on backwards in the video, but because they just feed a coil that doesn't require polarization it didn't matter and still works.

[@trecedaves3159]

Never even thought about doing that, I rewired the hole damn thing.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Rewire is the hard way, but probably the best to keep it original as designed! Good job on that one!

[@ashikdossajee7533]

I've installed a hard start relay in my mk1 golf, all works well. Issue I'm having the battery light doesnt illuminate on ignition, could this be because of the relay? Thanks

[@DuckmanCycles]

I'm going to say probably not, it would be very strange for this to affect that light, however, if there is an error in your wiring, or you disrupted something in your charging circuit in the process, then there is always that possibility. Try to undo your wiring and temporarily put it back the way it was and check the light again. You'll know! Hope that helps!

[@FLATearthGARY]

In your opinion, which would you recommend… Where you installed the relay in this video or directly at the starter? Thank you for all you do man!

[@DuckmanCycles]

Always inside... weatherproof, easy to get to! Thanks for the question!

[@Yogenh]

I had to do that to my 72 bus it was nice

[@DuckmanCycles]

Its an awesome little bandaid for old tired wiring! Thanks for the comment!

[@diablo692013]

Hello I have a vw beetle chassis on a sterling nova and it was running well when I park it a few months when by and I try to start it and no power I replaced the battery and nothing… any suggestions

[@DuckmanCycles]

Nothing at all? Battery not hooked up properly, terminals are dirty, or you pulled the wire off of the regulator (if you have one) when you were changing the battery. Just my guesses.

[@mastermatt289]

Great vedieo, I see the dash has been removed in the bug. How did they do the glove box? Do you remove the trim ring and just leave the metal? Thanks in advance

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thank you! I pretty much just removed the pad and welded the holes shut. I don't remember there being a trim ring of any sort on the glove box door, maybe it was missing.... heh! But if you've got one, yes, make it go away!

[@secondlooksformen3836]

@@DuckmanCycles so there is a great looking old classic metal dash under our ugly plastic dash? Just waiting to come out? (1970 standard beetle)

[@darrylbadham9021]

Hi, I touched the red wire on the + battery terminal and nothing. However when I short the starter solenoid it turns over. Where and what should I be looking at now?

[@DuckmanCycles]

I I would suggest looking for wires that are cut or disconnected.

[@dougcurtis578]

I have a relay in my 72 Super Beetle, and it ran 2 years ago I believe, but now, no start. Do relays go bad?

[@DuckmanCycles]

Yes, like anything else man-made, relays do go bad. Might be as easy as just replacing it, Should be easy enough ti diagnose if you have a new relay on hand,

[@dougcurtis578]

@@DuckmanCycles Thanks! Looking at it, it's probably the original one anyway. Got one on order plus a bunch of other stuff. Thanks for the reply!

[@johncollins5552]

Would an online fuse be needed on one of those leads to the relay as a safety precaution?

[@DuckmanCycles]

It's a good idea, but I often don't find one in there lol

[@VolksStokes]

Hey Duckman, lookin good brother!! And TY once again for a helpful clip. I got a problemo again 😅. So this is how i wired my 40A relay: 30 to battery+, 85 ground/chassis, 86 to red wire i believe is from ignition as its coming off from side of heater channel below the seat. And then 87 to the other end of red wire i believe going to starter solenoid as its going out the rear firewall down under the seat. When i go back to reconnect cable wire to Battery(-), the starter tries to start engine over and i see sparks on battery post leaving the post with welding marks. Im afraid im damaging the battery's post. What am i doing wrong? 😢😢

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thanks man! Sounds like you've got the relay connected well, but the mystery "red wire" underneath the back seat can be one of several wires. Which one is it? If you've got a Beetle, it should be the one with the connector in the middle of it. Remove that connector. 86 should go to the portion of the wire that goes up front, and 87 should goes out back to the starter. If that still activates continuously, then you've still got a bad connection somewhere, or you've still got a bad connection... OR your key switch is stuck in the start position. Beyond that, its hard for me to say without seeing it. Electrical is practically impossible to diagnose without my eyes and hands on it. Let me know what you come up with! Oh and you're not going to hurt the battery post unless you're dead shorting something, lol!

[@VolksStokes]

@@DuckmanCycles Aha! TY man! Now im pumped up and am gonna switch around terminals and see what works. Thx again

[@DuckmanCycles]

😁👍🦆💩

[@zakihasan5549]

Hi. I have a 1973 beetle with 1300 engine. It was not starting so I changed to new coil, new spark plugs and leads, new 009 distributor, new 30/31 pict 3 carburetor, new fuel pump. I have set the timing and there is current to spark plugs. I have tried to start the car and it takes a really long time to start after cranking. It does this after I put my foot down to the floor on accelerator. I have only managed to start it twice this way. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks.

[@DuckmanCycles]

You emailed me and we sorted it out, turns out your choke wire was off the carb... hehe! Easy repair, good for you! Thanks for the comment!

[@zakihasan5549]

Cheers mate

[@Fantobacon]

If I can only find a 30 amp relay would it cause problems?? I installed the 30 amp one and now my G light flickers when I accelerate...started right up tho!

[@DuckmanCycles]

I think we talked elsewhere earlier today... but the generator light should not be affected by this relay, unless there was a massive diversion from what I demonstrated here in the video! Hope that helps! Check your belt tension especially, it may be slipping when you speed up. If it still acts hairy, you can try to re-polarize the generator. I've seen that solve the problem before, too. Here's how to polarize a generator... right at the 19 min mark. kzbin.info/www/bejne/p4OVYpt3q6Zqis0

[@wnhuskey]

So, I followed your install instructions to the "T", and after relay install no power at all? What's amiss? Is there another way to bypass the bad igntion wire? Thanks!

[@DuckmanCycles]

Yes, to bypass the wire just run a new wire! 😁👍🏻 otherwise when it comes to wiring logic, I really can't help you diagnose it without actually seeing it myself and touching it

[@philipmann1468]

Can i use the same wire to test the starter switch? My starter turns on but won’t turn off. If you have a video on this problem great! Thank you in advance

[@DuckmanCycles]

Yes you can use that wire to test the starter switch! Your problem sounds like a stuck solenoid, somewhat common issue. Has your car been converted from 6v to 12v? Usually you can rectify it by changing to a proper 12v starter... or just replace the starter anyway even if its already a 12v. I hope that helps!

[@philipmann1468]

DuckmanCycles and VW Garage thank you , turned out to be a couple loose wires. Loose screws still loose 🤪

[@DuckmanCycles]

Awesome! So glad you got that figured out... you may have some loose screws, but mine are missing entirely LOL

[@josiahimgrund90]

Great information! I do have one question though, I have a 68 bug but it’s got a different body in it( a kit car) and it won’t start now. I would think if it was this problem I could push start it as long as the keys in the on position, can someone back me up please?

[@josiahimgrund90]

Fyi, it won’t push start it sounds like it wants to but electrically won’t run

[@vvtheduckvv]

Sounds like you got a whole lot of stuff going on there that I don't understand exactly or that I think that I could answer without actually seeing it in person. But if something like the battery is in terrible terrible shape or if the key switch is acting up there is a possibility it may not light off the ignition coil. I would definitely have someone look at it, it may not be a big deal at all, usually on Volkswagen's it's pretty simple.

[@hellomissray]

So I have a 69 VW beetle and it’s doing this but I have a push to start button connected to something any advice on that? 😅

[@DuckmanCycles]

I'm not sure that I quite understand the question, but if you do have a push button then you have a custom setup thst can be wildly different from stock. Something like you see in this video is possible to add to that, but how to do it depends on what you've got. Sorry that I can't be much more help without looking at it.

[@paulgarza8389]

what wire goes where on the 4 pin relay for the horn on the 78 ? Three terminals are all pointing / positioned one way and the 4th one is across, lets say at the top - what wire goes where? let say you're facing the relay pins... Face the pins w/ the one on top going like this ------- and all others (3) are all in the " I " position ? I cant find a schematic worth a flip online - anybody ? please ? thanks, PG

[@DuckmanCycles]

Have you looked on thesamba? Probably the best place to find those kind of resources!

[@shermantheo1]

I have a different question: I started my car (1600 VW Beetle), let it idle for few seconds, then slowly reversed out of my garage. Tried starting the car a few minutes later but the motor wouldn't turn. Just a clunk jammed sound. At first I thought it was the battery, replaced that but no success. I finally took a 19mm wrench and turned the motor over backwards and forwards, it started there-after. What caused this?

[@DuckmanCycles]

I have no idea I didn't get to look at it, but I can suggest that possibly the starter jammed up. Otherwise it's just going to be a bunch of guesses

[@mitchellvirgil3491]

Thank you sir. my 70 just began this prollum! It be easy fix thanks again

[@DuckmanCycles]

Awesome! So glad I could help! Thank you for the feedback!

[@aldohernandez3869]

How do you connect one of these to a split window bus. You mentioned it was connected s bit different than a bug

[@DuckmanCycles]

Same electrical connections, except battery and starter wire are just in different physical locations.

[@aldohernandez3869]

@@DuckmanCycles thanks really appreciate your help and your videos. Awesome job keeping our Vw's on the road!!!

[@mariusa9263]

I have trouble starting after getting to operating temperature. Changed fuel lines, spark plugs, distro fix, and spark plug wires but nadda. Changed to new air filter as well. When it's cold, starting up is a breeze. Any thoughts

[@DuckmanCycles]

This is not really relevant to this video, and would be considered a post hijack.... but you're in need, so here's what I'll suggest: Perhaps it has little to do with temperature. Make sure the choke is opening up as it is supposed to. Also make sure your float in the carb is floating properly. It'll cause a really rich condition that a cold engine wouldn't mind, but a hot engine doesn't like. Also, verify your thermonstat is doing what it is supposed to. Good luck! If you'd like to discuss more, please use one of my contact methods in the video descrption or on my website!

[@mariusa9263]

@@DuckmanCycles haha I'm sorry! It was a late night pondering how to fix this thing hehe. I'll ask my questions thru the right channels

[@DuckmanCycles]

Thanks dude! I hope we get you figured out

[@lal5555f]

So when I touch the solenoid wire to the battery my bug starts but when i have the relay set up just like yours with proper wire and connections the key still doesn't do anything. What do you think could be wrong?

[@DuckmanCycles]

Bad ignition switch, or a wire is disconnected or damaged someplace! But most likely it’s the switch, I’ve had bad ones before.

[@lal5555f]

@@DuckmanCycles Ok so i just installed a hard start relay, new ignition switch, and new ignition lock cylinder. I have contact from the key now but the starter jams on and stays on until i turn off the key. So i hot wired it from the plug and it jams on still. if i touch the solenoid wire from under the seat to the battery the bug starts just fine it doesn't jam on. Have an idea what could be causing this?

[@kristinat6421]

My ‘69 Beetle doesn’t bounce back when you turn the key to start it. You hear the horrible winding of the starter when the engine’s running. It’s a pain to turn it back fast and just right so it doesn’t die out. So is this the ignition cylinder or the switch wiring?

[@DuckmanCycles]

It's most likely a problem with the ignition switch itself, only about $10 and not too terrible awful to replace. The cylinder itself is probably OK unless its getting jammed. It does not sound like you have any problems with your wiring because everything does what it should! I hope that helps! Thanks for the question!

[@kristinat6421]

DuckmanCycles and VW Garage - Thank you so much, sir!

[@jasonpayne1785]

So after watching this video and installing the relay the issue is still there (power on but not starting) do you have any input on this? Thank you.

[@DuckmanCycles]

Sure, couple things mentioned in video to investigate... bad switch, also test solenoid on starter by jumping it with a screwdriver. If it's not one of those two things then you've got a bad wire or loose connection somewhere. Hope that helps! Lemme know what happens! Good luck!

[@jasonpayne1785]

@@DuckmanCycles thanks. I'm gonna try to trace the starter wire. I think I subscribed so keep em coming. (And drinking while.you do it)

[@vwbug1957]

Can you use this relay on a 6 volt system?

[@DuckmanCycles]

This same relay, no... but there are 6v ones just like it that you can use instead! But it installs the same!

[@marlalowry2189]

I want one of those crimping tools!!

[@DuckmanCycles]

They are the best! Thanks!

[@1pwatson1]

Hi duckman tried all what you said still no go do you think it’s a regulator problem..

[@DuckmanCycles]

I'm afraid I don't remember the problem, this question is out of context here!

[@1pwatson1]

DuckmanCycles and VW Garage sorry I’m on your hard wire vid done all you said but still not starting.turn key starter klicks ,do you think I’ve a regulator problem thank Dawn...

[@charlesrodriguez1654]

Is the WR-1 hard start still the same

[@DuckmanCycles]

I didn’t know what that part number was until I just looked it up, but yes that is the same with the same procedure. Hope that helps!

[@johnmckinstry8546]

Do you know of a relay that will work with a 6V system?

[@DuckmanCycles]

Yup! It was in the video description! ⚫ COMPATIBLE RELAYS ⚫ 6V ▶ amzn.to/31yvrXc 12V ▶ amzn.to/2KUwieM

[@koniseatskimchi5541]

HA! i have this very same issue with my bug. The previous owner of mine installed a remote starter button as a backup. Thanks, now i will do this

[@DuckmanCycles]

Its a super-common problem! Put in the relay, it'll probably work for you!

[@koniseatskimchi5541]

i agree with you, and yes. it is on my list of things to do. Thank you much for showing this.

[@tomwaller2111]

Can I get a UK link for the 6v version? :)

[@DuckmanCycles]

Heh, sorry! I havent got a UK account!