How do I remove the flywheel from a '74 Volkswagen beetle?

Question

I read that I have to use a flywheel lock, which store carries them? how do I stop the flywheel from turning?

Answer 1

With the engine removed from the car the flywheel may be removed after the clutch cover has been taken off.
The flywheel is held by a single center bolt which is tightened up to 253 ft/lbs so do not think you can get it undone just like that. It was necessary to obtain a piece of angel iron to lock the flywheel by putting the angel iron across two of the clutch bolts which were put back into the flywheel. If by yourself the other end of the angel iron can then be held in the vice with the engine on the bench.
A 36 mm socket is then put on the bolt with the handle from the socket set A piece of steel pipe is then put over the socket handle and leaned on with considerable weight. The bolt slackens with no fuss at all.
Remove the bolt and large washer and before going any further make an identifiable mark on the flywheel hub so that you can re-locate the flywheel in the same place. The matching mark on the crankshaft cannot be made until the flywheel is off, until you can make a corresponding line up mark on the crankshaft flange. This is important as there may be no other way of knowing the correct position of balance.
The flywheel is now located only by four dowel pegs which fit into holes in the crankshaft flange and flywheel boss. Put a piece of wood under the edge of the flywheel starter teeth to support the weight and then use a soft mallet or block of wood to tap the edges of the flywheel and draw it off.
When the flywheel is free, hold it steady, and remove the metal or paper gasket fitted over the four dowel pegs in the flange. Then make the second line-u mark on the crankshaft.

Answer 2

Vw Flywheel

Answer 3

I would call a VW shop and ask them...not dealership, but a small shop that works on VWs or sells VW parts...they are more specialized and usually have vast amounts of knowledge.