Capacitor

Capacitor for the ignition distributor.
1300 | 1600cc - 8/70 to 9/75.

The capacitor is located in the distributor and is connected on one side to the negative of the ignition coil and on the other side in the distributor to the contact point.

The capacitor dampens the spark at the contact point to prevent burning. If the contact point burns quickly, this means the capacitor is defective and you must replace it. If the wiring of the capacitor is damaged, it is also advisable to replace it.

Volkswagen used various types of capacitor over the years, hence the many versions. To be sure which capacitor applies to your engine, use an online distributor/ignition tool. After entering the VW or Bosch number of your distributor, all parts that apply are listed.

Attention! In some cases two different capacitors may be shown, both used in this distributor but in different VW models. Please compare the picture in such a case.

Bosch distributors were fitted to most Volkswagens (Bosch logo and part number always stated). In recent years imitation distributors resembling the Bosch original have come on the market, without Bosch or VW logo. At the start of the 1960s Volkswagen also used Garbe-Lahmeyer distributors (VW part numbers and VW logo, but their own cap, rotor, contact points and capacitor). The Bosch 009 and 050 distributors are used only for performance engines and are 100% centrifugal. The 123 is an electronic ignition system that replaces the mechanical system and is practically maintenance-free.