Unleaded Type 2

I have just imported a Type 2 camper van (South Africa Jurgens Auto Villa L) from Australia with a 1974 1800cc twin carb engine. In Australia I used leaded fuel. Is it okay to use unleaded in this or should I use the lead replacement fuel? Also can anyone recommend a good garage in West London for MOT etc? I noted Thingamies Beetles in West Drayton. At the Show 'n' Shine in Burnham Gary mentioned a guy with dreadlocks who was good in Honeypot Lane, but I can't seem to find him.

Regards Tony

This is from the horse's mouth, but the different Octane ratings between 4 star and unleaded will man that the carb will need adjusting. Just run down the tank to next to nothing, fill up with unleaded and get the carb retunned.

Its Official

As reported in the August issue of Practical Classics, news from VWs technical department confirms that all classic Volkswagens can use unleaded fuel. �Initially we were cautious as only post-1976 cars are fitted with hardened valve seats, but our technical department says the memory effect from years of using leaded fuel will provide sufficient protection for earlier cars”, a spokesman confirmed. This lead memory effect can provide protection unless the cylinder heads are nearly new or have been reground. To get more information as to the types of unleaded fuel to run your old flat four call the VW customer helpline on 0800 711811.

Original article is in Wheelspin September 1999