Guide

REPLACEMENT OF THE CAMSHAFT IN VAG GROUP 1.9-2.0 TDI ENGINES

Did you know that in the case of a camshaft failure, simply replacing it with a new one is not enough?

Even purchasing a basic set with hydraulic lifters and camshaft bearings might be insufficient!

Always remember to diagnose the engine to determine what could have contributed to the failure. The camshaft is not a wear part that can be replaced after about 100,000 km or less. The head in which the camshaft operates is subjected to immense pressures from the valves and the Pumpe Düse injectors. If we do not verify the other elements in the head, the effect of the damage will occur very shortly after the repair. Remember to check:

1. The holes in the head under the camshaft – properly aligned
2. Replacement of screws under the camshaft supports
3. The injector bores, to see if they are not broken. Possibly reaming the bores for special repair sleeves
4. Sealing of the injectors
5. Replacement of injector screws
6. Injector levers
7. Replacement of the screws of the injector lever axes

Other also important actions:

1. Proper functioning of valves in guides (verification of their condition)
2. Condition of the lubrication system including the oil pump – flushing the system
3. Replacement of the oil filter and oil according to the engine manufacturer’s recommendations
4. Application of a special lubricant on the cams and journals of the camshaft recommended for the first start-up after repair
5. Correct timing settings
6. Manually rotating the crankshaft, venting hydraulic lifters

By following these rules, in 99% of cases, we will avoid a recurrence of the camshaft failure.