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10 Posts
During a long highway trip in my '05 Golf TDI, the engine suddenly became louder with a deep, throaty chugging sound and I lost power. No limp mode. Given the power loss I suspected that I was now down a cylinder, but continued on for 150km at a reduced speed and managed to get to town. It got progressively worse as I went along. I went straight to an import shop that specialized in VW to have a mechanic listen to it. As soon as I fired it up he confirmed that it is most likely what I feared - the cam is worn out and I've finally perforated a lifter. Or two. Seems plausible with 420 000km on the clock and a PD engine. He was clear that was only a best estimate and would obviously have to open the lid to confirm.
This car has been a money pit since I got it, so I'm reluctant to spend significant money on it at this point. It does have a few additional issues as well. On the other hand, I've grown very interested in wrenching since acquiring the car and figure I don't have much to loose if I try to fix it myself. This could be an excellent learning opportunity.
I am a novice and the job is beyond my experience, but I feel fairly confident that I can do the work with some guidance from this fine site and elsewhere. It seems prudent to also change the timing belt, water pump, etc at the same time as they're due in 20k anyhow.
I am very unsure about three things:
a) assuming the problem is what I suspect, what additional damage may I have caused by driving 150km in that condition?
b) will I be able to recognize these problems if there are any?
c) given my lack of experience with these tasks, and the potential for having created other problems, what are my chances of success?
I will remove the valve cover for a preliminary inspection, but figured I'd get some advice before touching anything. I had to continue my journey without the car, so I'll have a good bit of time to conduct research before I can lay a hand on it.
Looking forward to your opinions.
-craig-
This car has been a money pit since I got it, so I'm reluctant to spend significant money on it at this point. It does have a few additional issues as well. On the other hand, I've grown very interested in wrenching since acquiring the car and figure I don't have much to loose if I try to fix it myself. This could be an excellent learning opportunity.
I am a novice and the job is beyond my experience, but I feel fairly confident that I can do the work with some guidance from this fine site and elsewhere. It seems prudent to also change the timing belt, water pump, etc at the same time as they're due in 20k anyhow.
I am very unsure about three things:
a) assuming the problem is what I suspect, what additional damage may I have caused by driving 150km in that condition?
b) will I be able to recognize these problems if there are any?
c) given my lack of experience with these tasks, and the potential for having created other problems, what are my chances of success?
I will remove the valve cover for a preliminary inspection, but figured I'd get some advice before touching anything. I had to continue my journey without the car, so I'll have a good bit of time to conduct research before I can lay a hand on it.
Looking forward to your opinions.
-craig-