1.6 ME Main Bearing Cap Removal Engine in Car

[thomas m]

The engine is a 1.6 VW diesel NA. Code ME. Engine is in car. Car is a 1991 MK2.

Is it possible to remove the #1 and #5 main bearing caps or do the seal carriers interfere?

Can the above main bearing caps be removed without dismantling the engine?

I had the oil pan off, but forgot to check it out.

Comments??

PS: What size are the hex heads??

[RunninWild]

You can get them but they are a bit tricky. I had to use a 12 point socket and hammer it onto the bolt as there isn't much clearance between the seal carriers as you noticed. I think it was a 14mm socket.

[thomas m]

You can get them but they are a bit tricky. I had to use a 12 point socket and hammer it onto the bolt as there isn't much clearance between the seal carriers as you noticed. I think it was a 14mm socket.

Hey, RunninWild !!

One fellow said (not sure if it was this same engine) that he used a Dremel Tool with a carbide bit to remove a smidgen of metal near the cap bolt. That made access easier.

I'm not sure how accurate  the tightening torque would be if the less clearance required hammering the socket onto the hex??

Did you replace the main bearings??? i.e., "roll" them out???

PS: Watch at 5:30 minute mark        https://youtu.be/2asvYkvnWyc?t=325

[RunninWild]

Yes I removed them. I replaced the bolts with studs and didn't have any issues with torquing it down. But your right it might throw the torque off a bit.

[thomas m]

RW,

Was the interference problem with #1 main bolts only, or also with #5??

[RunninWild]

#5 had the same issue.. I don't see an issue with cutting back some of the material with a dremel as long as you don't mess up the mating surface with the oil pan.