No prob, better to ask if you're not sure and thanks for the detailed question. Please post a follow up when you're done! If your timing belt has never been changed you are severely overdue and should have it changed as soon as possible. Seriously, if you have another car to drive I wouldn't drive the TDI.
You absolutely do not need VCDS to do the timing belt. Saying that if you don't know how to use VCDS "you shouldn't be attempting this on your own" is fear mongering. However, if you have no mechanical skill or experience then I'd say start with something simplier or watch someone else do it so you can learn before doing something that will cost a lot of money if it gets screwed up.
As long as you use the timing belt tools and the belt is correctly set, the injection pump will be set to where it will start and run fine. Worst case it might be a little off but no harm (assuming a stock car with normal use). Just find someone to tweak the timing when you get the chance.
If your friend has a genuine Ross Tech VCDS they can mail it to you and the software will work since it follows the cable (except the very old cables). It's also a good time to check the injection quantity, see the FAQ for the procedure. If you only need it to check the timing I'm told the generic cables off ebay will work with shareware versions of the software. They can't do advanced stuff and have almost 0 resale though.
You absolutely do not need VCDS to do the timing belt. Saying that if you don't know how to use VCDS "you shouldn't be attempting this on your own" is fear mongering. However, if you have no mechanical skill or experience then I'd say start with something simplier or watch someone else do it so you can learn before doing something that will cost a lot of money if it gets screwed up.
As long as you use the timing belt tools and the belt is correctly set, the injection pump will be set to where it will start and run fine. Worst case it might be a little off but no harm (assuming a stock car with normal use). Just find someone to tweak the timing when you get the chance.
If your friend has a genuine Ross Tech VCDS they can mail it to you and the software will work since it follows the cable (except the very old cables). It's also a good time to check the injection quantity, see the FAQ for the procedure. If you only need it to check the timing I'm told the generic cables off ebay will work with shareware versions of the software. They can't do advanced stuff and have almost 0 resale though.
correct. Only the fuel filter is really touched during this procedure. If the camshaft seal is leaking you should replace it, otherwise leave it alone. You can clean the engine but cover the alternator, disconnect the battery, and blow air out of any plugs. Use a small stream of water rather than the sharp, full strength nozzle setting when washing to prevent water from splashing up into places it shouldn't go. Obviously you don't want water entering the oil or air intake path since it could contaminate the oil or cause hydrolock.