1.6TD head components

[Huc]

I'm putting back my 1.6TD (MF) head back together and I don't remember the orientation of the components. Does the lower spring seat go on first or the valve seal?   

Thank you!

[Huc]

This is the gasser 8v orientation as per Bentley
https://imgur.com/0N5e6t9

This is the diesel 8v orientation as per Bentley
https://imgur.com/hqYPKP3

Seems odd that they would be different, which orientation is correct? 

Mine is a late year TD with the hydraulic lifters by the way.

[ORCoaster]

Isn't the lower spring seat inside diameter larger than the valve seal?  If not then I would be for putting it on then installing the seal to keep from messing it up.  I think the last kit I got for seals had some hard plastic tips that went on the valve guides to keep from cutting up the inside of the seal. 

The springs should be large enough to go over the seal and not cut into them. 

Been a while since I did the head rebuild thing.  Memory is going as I am cramming too much new info in the confined space all the time.

[libbydiesel]

The valve spring seat should go on first. 

[Huc]

Isn't the lower spring seat inside diameter larger than the valve seal?  If not then I would be for putting it on then installing the seal to keep from messing it up.  I think the last kit I got for seals had some hard plastic tips that went on the valve guides to keep from cutting up the inside of the seal. 

The springs should be large enough to go over the seal and not cut into them. 

Been a while since I did the head rebuild thing.  Memory is going as I am cramming too much new info in the confined space all the time.

The inside diameter of the lower seat is smaller than the valve seal (it doesn't pass through). The seals I ordered didn't come with any plastic tips to go between the seal and the guides. 

[Huc]

The valve spring seat should go on first.

Yeah that's what I thought too, but the manual's diagram got me doubting myself.

[libbydiesel]

The plastic caps go over the ends of the valve stems not the guides.  Just be gently in moving the seals over the valve stems and it should be fine. 

[Huc]

The plastic caps go over the ends of the valve stems not the guides.  Just be gently in moving the seals over the valve stems and it should be fine.

For the valve stems, I just used a drinking straw to protect the seals from getting torn up by the grooves.

[Huc]

Is a special tool required to push the valve seal tightly onto the guide? Using just my finger I can't push it down far enough. I've read people suggesting the use of a deep socket, but I'm worried that the rubber seal will be damaged that way. Is it fine to use a deep socket to press on the seal to seat it fully onto the valve guide?

[ORCoaster]

special pair of pliers is the trick.  Something along this line.  https://www.ebay.com/itm/1x-Car-Engine-Oil-Valve-Spring-Clamp-Disassembly-Stem-Seal-Gasket-Pliers-Remover/222449106519?fits=Year%3A1981%7CModel%3ARabbit%7CSubmodel%3AL+Custom%7CEngine+-+Liter_Display%3A1.6L%7CMake%3AVolkswagen%7CTrim%3AL+Custom+Hatchback+4-Door%7CEngine%3A1.6L+1588CC+97Cu.+In.+l4+DIESEL+SOHC+Naturally+Aspirated&epid=701197943&hash=item33cafffe57:g:FLEAAOSw32lY04e0:rk:28:pf:0&vxp=mtr

Autoparts stores have these for loan in the USA.  O'Rielys Autozone and NAPA have those programs. 

[libbydiesel]

I've always used an appropriately sized socket. 

[libbydiesel]

To be clear, I use a socket that is sized so that it is larger than the center rubber seal lip size.  It should go around that and push only on the metal reinforced outer ring. 

[Huc]

Awesome, thanks everyone!

[Huc]

I lapped all my valves with some grinding compound a few weeks ago when I first got my head out. After lapping all the valves, I noticed the exhaust valves had excessive play. I replaced all the exhaust valves.

Recently I have finished cleaning the head out and installing all the valves and springs, lifters back in. The thought just occurred to me...should I have lapped the valves again, now that the exhaust valve guides have been replaced?

Would it make a difference to how the valve sits on the seats, now that the exhaust valves no longer have the play it used to have?  Thank you.

[libbydiesel]

It can change the sealing of the valve.  Always good to lap them to check.