Author Topic: Buying a 16v - what to look for over an 8v  (Read 14630 times)

Offline andykram

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Buying a 16v - what to look for over an 8v
« on: 21 November 2011, 06:05 »
Well, the 8v below has served me well but I've found a 16v which I want to buy. Before I take the plunge, other than all the normal Mk2 checks that I already know about (bodywork and so on) is there anything unique to the 16v that I should be aware of and looking out for before I hand my cash over?
It's a big bumper J plate with just under 120000 miles.

Offline Sam

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Re: Buying a 16v - what to look for over an 8v
« Reply #1 on: 21 November 2011, 08:34 »
The bay should look like this



and not like this



On a more serious note, just make sure that you view the engine starting from cold - properly cold not 'oh I took her on a run for you this morning mate just to make sure she was alright' cold. There isnt anything I can think of that is specific to the valver engine, just the usual 'old engine' checks ie is it spewing black/white smoke and is it covered in oil.


The entire world is a Money Pit, you just have to pick yours.

Offline MBChB

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Re: Buying a 16v - what to look for over an 8v
« Reply #2 on: 21 November 2011, 08:59 »
Surprised no one has mentioned less torque as something you should be expecting yet  :tongue:
'89 Golf GTI 16V & '02 Beetle V5 Sport

Offline mk2bal

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Re: Buying a 16v - what to look for over an 8v
« Reply #3 on: 21 November 2011, 14:09 »
No-ones going to say that are they, as it would be a lie. Check it has dohc 16v written on the fanimold, and if you spot an 8v make sure it ruins it, then you know all is good and as should be


Offline MBChB

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Re: Buying a 16v - what to look for over an 8v
« Reply #4 on: 21 November 2011, 14:55 »
No-ones going to say that are they, as it would be a lie. Check it has dohc 16v written on the fanimold, and if you spot an 8v make sure it ruins it, then you know all is good and as should be



Flying the flag for valvers then?
'89 Golf GTI 16V & '02 Beetle V5 Sport

Offline The Mighty Elvi

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Re: Buying a 16v - what to look for over an 8v
« Reply #5 on: 21 November 2011, 15:02 »
Surprised no one has mentioned less torque as something you should be expecting yet  :tongue:

Shhh now, or I'll bring out the graph.

 :rolleyes:

Offline The Mighty Elvi

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Re: Buying a 16v - what to look for over an 8v
« Reply #6 on: 21 November 2011, 15:04 »
Check all the joints on the air intake pipes from the filter onwards.  Check for leaks and that the joins are tight and not deformed in any way by Garth tight jubilee clips.




Offline Sam

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Re: Buying a 16v - what to look for over an 8v
« Reply #7 on: 21 November 2011, 15:14 »
Also check all K-jet pipes for fraying and check the injectors arent dribbling any fuel. Non of this is a serious problem but it will help you haggle  :lipsrsealed:


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Offline Wayne

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Re: Buying a 16v - what to look for over an 8v
« Reply #8 on: 21 November 2011, 15:28 »
Make sure the cam chain is quite and does not rattle.

Offline mk2bal

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Re: Buying a 16v - what to look for over an 8v
« Reply #9 on: 21 November 2011, 15:39 »
I just love a bit of 8v vs 16v banter on a monday afternoon that's all. But yeah abf mk2 is top banana.