How do you get the cam off 'by a tooth or two'? Setting the cam timing is *THE MOST CRITICAL* procedure to perform on these engines. If you follow the correct timing belt procedure it is impossible to have the cam timing off at all. The correct procedure even includes rotating by hand back to TDC for #1 and re-checking the cam timing so even if it was off at first there is no chance of even cranking over the engine with the cam timing off. Off by two teeth will typically mean the pistons were hitting the valves. Often after getting tapped by the pistons, the head of the valve will fall off a few thousand miles later. If you can't/don't follow the correct procedures then you don't have the capacity to maintain one of these engines and your vw diesel car ownership experience will be fraught with disappointment and frustration. My best and kindest recommendation is to either step your game up a couple notches, pay someone else to work on it, or sell it off.
I couldn't tell you how the timing was off. I followed Vince Waldon's and the Bentley Manual's procedure. Rotated the motor by hand two rotations and everything lined back up perfectly. Not to mention it all turned nicely, no binding. Unless the belt jumped time, or the cam gear slipped on the tapered shaft. I will admit this is my first VW diesel full rebuild, but not my first rodeo. I certainly will have to "step up my game" Because clearly it is not "good enough." These forums are here for people to troubleshoot problems and discuss their vehicles. Not for cocky people to insult those in need of help.... Hey i don't know, maybe I'm wrong.
I did not insult you or at least didn't intend to. If you want to take it that way, it's up to you. My post was offered as an attempt to assist and was the best advice I could provide given the circumstances. It was an objective assessment without any malicious intent whatsoever, in fact the intent was the opposite. When you see someone poking a sleeping tiger, the best advice you can give is to run and it won't help anyone to word the advice gently. If you don't care to read my posts, you are welcome to add me to your 'ignore list'. If you need the step-by-step on how to edit your ignore list, let me know and I'll happily oblige. Good luck with your project.
........It's pretty embarrassing driving down the road and killing every insect in the Tri state area
I'm in Queens where you at? I have a diesel pulse adapter/ timing light and can check the timing for you.