**1965 VW Distributor Rod Assembly Removal Tool and Procedure: A Comprehensive Guide**

The 1965 Volkswagen Beetle is a classic car that is beloved by enthusiasts around the world. One of the most important parts of the engine is the distributor, which is responsible for sending electrical current to the spark plugs. The distributor rod assembly is a critical component of the distributor, and it must be removed in order to service or replace the distributor.

**Tools Required**

• 13mm wrench
• 16mm wrench
• Distributor rod assembly removal tool (available at most auto parts stores)

**Procedure**

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal. This is a safety precaution that will prevent any electrical shocks.
2. Locate the distributor. The distributor is located at the front of the engine, on the driver's side.
3. Remove the distributor cap. The distributor cap is held in place by two screws. Remove the screws and lift off the cap.
4. Find the distributor rod assembly. The distributor rod assembly is a long, thin rod that is connected to the distributor rotor.
5. Insert the distributor rod assembly removal tool into the slot on the side of the distributor. The tool will engage with the rod assembly and allow you to remove it.
6. Pull the distributor rod assembly straight out of the distributor. Be careful not to damage the rod assembly or the distributor.
7. Inspect the distributor rod assembly. If the rod assembly is damaged, it must be replaced.
8. Install the new distributor rod assembly. Insert the new rod assembly into the distributor and push it all the way in.
9. Reinstall the distributor cap. Place the distributor cap over the distributor and tighten the screws.
10. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.

**Stories and Lessons Learned**

Story 1:

A mechanic was trying to remove the distributor rod assembly from a 1965 VW Beetle. He didn't have the proper tool, so he tried to use a pair of pliers. The pliers slipped and he ended up damaging the rod assembly. He had to replace the rod assembly, which cost him time and money.

Lesson: Always use the proper tool for the job.

Story 2:

A car owner was trying to replace the distributor cap on his 1965 VW Beetle. He didn't disconnect the negative battery terminal first. When he went to remove the cap, he accidentally touched the metal contact on the inside. He received a nasty electrical shock.

Lesson: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on any electrical components.

Story 3:

A mechanic was trying to install a new distributor rod assembly on a 1965 VW Beetle. He didn't push the rod assembly all the way in. When he started the engine, the rod assembly came out of the distributor and caused the engine to misfire.

Lesson: Always make sure to push the distributor rod assembly all the way in before starting the engine.

**Effective Strategies**

• Use the proper tool. The distributor rod assembly removal tool is designed specifically to remove the rod assembly without damaging it.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal. This is a safety precaution that will prevent any electrical shocks.
• Be careful not to damage the rod assembly or the distributor. The rod assembly is a delicate component, and it can be easily damaged if you are not careful.
• Push the rod assembly all the way in. If you don't push the rod assembly all the way in, it will come out of the distributor when the engine is started.

**FAQs**

Q: Can I use a different tool to remove the distributor rod assembly?
A: No, you should only use the proper distributor rod assembly removal tool.

Q: Do I need to disconnect the negative battery terminal before removing the distributor rod assembly?
A: Yes, you should always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on any electrical components.

Q: What are the signs of a damaged distributor rod assembly?
A: The signs of a damaged distributor rod assembly include:

• The engine misfires
• The engine runs rough
• The engine stalls

Q: How long does it take to remove the distributor rod assembly?
A: It should take about 15 minutes to remove the distributor rod assembly.

Q: How much does it cost to replace a distributor rod assembly?
A: The cost to replace a distributor rod assembly will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $100 for a new rod assembly.

Q: Can I install a new distributor rod assembly myself?
A: Yes, you can install a new distributor rod assembly yourself. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and to make sure that you push the rod assembly all the way in.

**Call to Action**

If you need to remove the distributor rod assembly from your 1965 VW Beetle, be sure to follow the instructions in this article. By using the proper tool and taking the necessary precautions, you can avoid damaging the rod assembly or the distributor.