how can you find out what engine is fitted to my car ?,the engine is overheating. I eventually found the radiator,it is mounted behind the engine inspection hatch.there's a electric fan fitted at the center. the engine starts overheating after several minutes but the fan doesn't seem to kick in. any ideas please.
You still haven't got it, have you. You are looking for something that doesn't exist on an "air cooled engine", it doesn't need a radiator as it uses air, not water to cool the engine. I suggest that take it to a garage or find someone who knows about VW beetles to have alook at for you.
Anon
December 2011
Unless someone has bodged another type of engine into your beetle ALL beetles of that era are AIR COOLED and the heater is hot air from around the exhaust system and have NO water cooling, the radiator you have found is probably an oil cooler
nigel
December 2011
See my previous answer. Engine type will be on your registration documents