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Engine Specific Info and Questions => IDI Engine => Topic started by: towns on December 29, 2005, 02:52:35 pm

Title: crank stiffer to turn after ring replacement, typical??
Post by: 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?

Title: crank stiffer to turn after ring replacement, typical??
Post by: vwmike 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.

Title: crank stiffer to turn after ring replacement, typical??
Post by: towns on December 29, 2005, 05:29:05 pm

i should also mention that i installed new connecting rod bearings

Title: crank stiffer to turn after ring replacement, typical??
Post by: towns 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.

Title: crank stiffer to turn after ring replacement, typical??
Post by: vwmike 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.