need more knowledge

[ejust]

as i work on my A2 Jetta TD, i realize that my ex wifes A1 bunny (gasser) she had was easier to work on for some reason. Everytime i fix something on this darn car, something else has went. Hopefully the problems quit soon. But anyways, since my car is back into the garage - AGAIN - i got the waterneck thats cracked, im curious as to the timing on the diesel. I know th book says .95 to 1.05mm.  Ive got a 1" indicator (.001" increments). Ive got the extension for it and such. Does it matter on this. I wonder if im really close or not. I could be setting it to my 1.00mm (.039") but i may be actually off. It seems to start real good. Does seem to be a bit "doggy" compared to before i changed the timing belt. Also, the pump mods - im tempted, but im real afraid of messing with my milage. I value my 45mpg but at times would like some zip per se. Let me know of your opinions. Im curious. Thanks ahead of time for your replys.

[chrissev]

how do you know that you're off with the timing?  It's hard to be off with that.  If the needle moves after you reset the gauge, try tapping it a bit before you tighten the screws on the extension.  I've set the timing on my Jetta many times and never been off at all.

[Dr. Diesel]

give it a shot and see what happens. if you lose 2 mpg, but gain a bit of pep, maybe it's worthwhile!