Soooo.... I have 97,600 miles on my '06 Special edition Jetta TDI and decided to check the cam for wear before I put it in the shop to change the timing belt. Figured that I didn't want to start on the the timing belt change only to discover that I would have to order a camshaft. To my dismay, but not much surprise, I have found several lobes badly worn. The worst being #1 and #8 valves. The engine runs fine except fr a slight shutter at idle (I assume to to the valves not opening all the way). I purchased the car with 60k on the odometer and the previous owner and I both ran Valvoline VV966, synpower 5-40W meeting VW specifications, always changed at or before VW recommended oil change intervals. Just though I would let all you other PD guys out there know that this cam issue seems more prevalent than is generally though. My opinion (for what it's worth) is that the '05 - '06 VWs are just starting to hit the mileage necessary to start seeing external signs of cam failure (i.e. engine shutter, knocking, etc.). The cam issue seems quite widespread to me, not just a few mis-manufactured cams. I included a couple of pictures of my #1 and #8 cam lobes for everyone's viewing pleasure. Not the greatest pics, but you can definitely see the chamfer on the lobe disappear due to wear. I will try to post more when I actually replace the cam and timing belt.
I am thinking about ordering the cam kit from boraparts.com. From what I've read they seem like a good supplier. I also was contemplating a performance cam, not necessarily for the performance aspect, but more to get as far away from the OEM cam design as I can. Any suggestions?? would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!
I am thinking about ordering the cam kit from boraparts.com. From what I've read they seem like a good supplier. I also was contemplating a performance cam, not necessarily for the performance aspect, but more to get as far away from the OEM cam design as I can. Any suggestions?? would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

