one of the gaiters (the one with nuts and bolts to hold it together) is split on my bug, and oil appeared to drip out of it - could i be losing the gearbox oil from it? (i will be replacing it asap by the way!)

Yes, that's gear oil you're loosing. Replace it ASAP. Running the car up on ramps, rather than jacking it up is the best way to replace the gaiter.

there seems to be a rubbing noise for each revelution of the wheel too - hard to pinpoint, but might be the rear bearing rather than the gearbox, as i assume gearbox noises would be a more steady whine?

Possibly, but you'll have to get under the car and turn the wheels to see if you can pinpoint the noise. It could be the brakes or brake drum catching.

never done much with a bug gearbox - is there a fill plug down the side of it, and does that also act as the oil level?

Yes, you'll need a 17mm hex key, and yes. It's all there in your manual.

Dave.

 

sounds like you been reading ya haynes manual buddy! pretty right on all counts u said. gaiters are a bit fiddly but straight forward. they are cheap to buy too.
i find it easier to nip to plumbing dept in b&q to purchase relavent size 'jubilee clips' to fit on boot ends. instead of using the supplied 'original style' clips that come with kit. they work a treat.
be prepared tho you will probably be needing to repeat job in 6 months cos rubber isnt same quality as originals!!!
as for filling oil, plug is on left side of box and you will need a 17mm allen key socket to remove it.
finally noise sounds like it may be a drum catching on b·ck plate. check for rust build up on backing plates before assuming the worst!!
have fun!! ian

 

brilliant - thanks guys!

couldn't find haynes - thats why i posted! just assumed it to be similar to a 2cv (which i have considerably more experience with!)

the rubbing (which sounds more scraping now) i was convinced was from the front ns drum. swapped the whole front beam assembly today (sat), so was a bit suprised to hear it still with me! seems to be oily on backing plate on ns rear drum, but only from the centre downwards - i guess the oil leaking from the split gaiter is running down the shaft onto the backing plate - will have a closer look tomorrow, and see if the drum is catching it as it spins

cheers