Fixing Air Leaks: Replacing a Ripped Carburetor Base Plate (VW Polo 86c)

Warning: This video contains high levels of mechanic frustration! 🛠️🚗💨
​I’m back working on the VW Polo Mk2 Breadvan, and today’s job was supposed to be easy: replacing the Carb Flange. If your engine is running rough or stalling, a ripped rubber base plate is often the culprit. As soon as I touched mine, the whole thing just fell apart—it was completely perished [05:41].
​However, getting the old flange off turned into a nightmare. One single nut underneath was so stuck and rounded off that I had to "ADHD Customs" my way out of it—which means I grabbed the cutting tools and chopped the old flange off! [07:46].
​In this video:
​The Diagnosis: Showing exactly why a ripped carb flange causes major engine issues [01:06].
​The Removal Battle: Trying every tool in the box before finally giving up and cutting the offending item out [06:51] [08:11].
​The Install: Fitting the new, solid rubber flange and getting the Pierburg carb back in place [09:14].
​The First Start: Troubleshooting a rough idle and an automatic choke that just needed a bit of heat [10:23].
​Next Steps: Planning a full coolant flush and radiator replacement to clean out all that "manky" water I found earlier [13:48].
​I’m not a fan of these Pierburg carbs—give me a Weber any day! But for now, "The Beastie Junior" is back together and running smoother.
​SUBSCRIBE to see if I survive the radiator swap in the next episode! 90% of you aren't subscribed yet—it's free and helps me keep the workshop lights on! [14:55].
​#VWPolo #Breadvan #CarbFlange #Pierburg #VW86c #ProjectCar #MechanicRage #CarburetorRepair #ADHDcustoms #Restoration #BudgetBuild #VWLife