Author Topic: crank stiffer to turn after ring replacement, typical?? (Read 2104 times)

towns · « **on:** December 29, 2005, 02:52:35 pm »

I just finished installing 2 of the 4 pistons back into the engine after replacing the rings (1.6 TD), and as I was turning the crank, it seemed much stiffer (harder) to turn than when I had been turning it with the original rings. Is this stiffness typical after a ring replacement?

vwmike · « **Reply #1 on:** December 29, 2005, 03:12:03 pm »

It's typical for an engine to be tighter with new parts installed. That is why when you buy a new tdi it will get progressively better mileage through break-in.

towns · « **Reply #2 on:** December 29, 2005, 05:29:05 pm »

i should also mention that i installed new connecting rod bearings

towns · « **Reply #3 on:** December 29, 2005, 06:42:38 pm »

I found one possible reason for the tightness in the crank. Following the Bentley's instructions on piston installation can be slightly confusing, it turns out i installed the upper piston rod bearing (on piston side) the opposite way and not in the groove... :oops: Good thing i caught it before i went any further. This must have played a role in the extremely stiff crank.

vwmike · « **Reply #4 on:** December 29, 2005, 06:45:53 pm »

Yeah, that would've been bad. I'm not sure you want to use that bearing anymore though.