How to tell if the gasket is blown.

[eraser]

Howdy all,
The other week was just triving and noticed more of a dak dak (VW sound coming from the engine) and got to thinking a gasket might of blown, now whats the easiest way to tell?
I know i dont have the same takeoff in 1st (sometimes have to use low otherwise feels like the clutch is slipping{under 85% throttle}) {2nd seems to be ok. Just reading up in the haynes manual , but wasnt to sure about it all.

-Marc
1968 1600DP Beetle

[bookwus]

Hiya Marc,

Is there anything else which makes you think that this is a gasket problem?

How is your clutch adjust?  The control valve adjust might also be an area to inspect.  Both of these procedures are well outlined in your Bentley.

And this website has an excellent troubleshooting guide (same as Bentley) for AutoStick related problems.