new to the diesel golf

[TOW'D]

Hi gang,
 I just got a '85 Golf diesel and have a few questions

the timing belt history is a big question so I figure I'd replace it
where could we get the tools to do the job?

Is there a gauge for a diesel that would do the same as a vacuum gauge on a gas engine?

The linkage was(is) screwed up when we bought the car--
I can't find 5th
the linkage was missing and I haywired the snap socket end of the operating rods with tie straps.
I must be missing something is there any links showing a troubleshooting for the linkage on the tranny.
Can the operating rods still be ordered from VW ?

We did not get a owners manual with it and wonder about the pull handle ( I know it advances the timing) how long do you keep it out?

This diesel started right up during a big cold spell we had and feels smooth.
thanks for any help
hank

[mattbondy]

The fact that it starts easily in cold weather is a very good sign. I have seen people refer to this engine as an extreme interference motor. I learned that lesson the hard way when a bolt fell in my timing belt and shredded it.

There is a guy on ebay (Prothe?) who sells copies of the VW tools for replacing the timing belt. He also offers a new belt and idler for something like an extra $8. The camshaft has a slot in one end and there is an accompanying shelf in the head. You should not use this bar to hold the cam while breaking the bolt on the cam sprocket. You might break the end of the cam.

The idler rotates about a hub with a nonconcentric hole in the center for the mount on the engine. This allows you to tension the belt. Proper tension is very important so as not to wear out bushings in the injection pump. A tool comes in the above mentioned package for adjusting the idler position. Ive heard that a pair of snap ring pliers works quite well.

There is a mark (and pointer not on flywheel) on the flywheel visible through openings (possibly plugged) in the bell housing for TDC cylinder 1. You will have valve cover off to do work so you can verify cylinder 1 (passenger side, closest to accessory drive belts) is at TDC. This is just a broad overview of timing you should definitely purchase a Bentley service manual. It is the bible for working on these cars. Once belt is on and all marks are lined up (camshaft is held, TDC mark on crank,  injection pump has a hole in the pulley which matches with a hole in belt guard behind it) you set timing with the use of a dial gauge which comes in above mentioned kit. The pin for the injection pump also comes in above mentioned kit. There are a lot of posts on setting timing. I suggest the forums at vwdieselparts.com/forum as a reference. This site is run by a shop specializing in parts for these cars. The focus seems to be more on general maintenance than this site.

A bunch of general tips:

Do not rotate engine counter clockwise by hand. Components are not designed to hold tension in this direction.

Rotate engine by hand before using starter to ensure valves will not contact pistons.

There is a slot for a key for the camshaft sprocket but there is no key. There is no slot in sprocket (in mine anyways) so this is sort of self explanatory.

You have to pull off v belts so it might be a good time to replace them. Look into this, the brand of belt to use is a hot topic. I went a size down for my ac compressor belt and will be going a size down for the alternator belt.

Water pump can only be replaced with timing belt off (or is much easier) so this might be a good time to do this if you dont know its age.


Anyone else have any suggestions?

I have a bunch of old posts on timing/head replacement on vwdieselparts.com/forum (general diesel forum). They might be worth looking into. I would often just ask people to suggest items that I should watch for.

I just use the timing advance when starting the car. I find it helps quite a bit when the car has warmed up just enough that the glowplugs wont come on and I just shut it down.

[cyrus #1]

Here is a breakdown of the linkage assembly.



It very well just might need some adjustment.  If your linkage is indeed sloppy and worn out, you should consider investing in an upgraded aftermarket kit.  I did and haven't looked back.

[Vincent Waldon]

As you do the timing belt it is a great idea to also check/adjust the timing... you use all the same tools.... just need to add a dial gauge and adapter, which you can get from the same place that sold you the locking tools.

One way to set the timing is documented here:

http://vincewaldon.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=24&Itemid=28

[Possum79]

If you go to autozone.com you can get chiltons for free viewable online for almost everycar. I do not like Chiltons but hey its great to have a free reference around when needed. I use it to cross check my Bently manual.

Edit: I also love Vince's site for great write ups an Libby has a good one too.

[hillfolk'r]

ive got a plan to change that ball on the relay shaft with a  rollerskate wheel turned down,,,rod ends etc
look close i made cheapo steel bushings for my relay shaft
my exhaust would soften them,,these have more bearing area,and have a nice solid feel
i tack welded them in
the firewall is getting boxed into the interior further for a little more turbo clearance\

[TOW'D]

Thanks for the tips guys,
I ordered the tools and belt to replace the T belt

 just a few more questions

What series would a '85(Dec of '84) Golf be? MK??
to order the shifter rebuild kit

What would be the best size tires for fuel economy - 195 70R13 on now

How does the plastic cap come off the 5th gear lock out-
I'm reading the Bentley on how to check the lock out but don't want to break that cover trying to get it off

thanks
hank