Mk1 Golf (1.8 Gti) engine tick over problem

[w1nslow]

Hello All,

I have a 1983 mark 1 Golf 1.8 Gti that had an engine problem, so I swopped it out for 1984 Sirocco 1.8 Gti engine (the same engine).

As a precaution I had the head skimmed and went about fitting the new engine.  At the same time I changed everything I could, Cam belt, filters, all the service points etc.

Once in the engine starts first time no problem but it wants to kick over between 1500 / 1700 rpm, and when you try and move he car there is no power / torque.  You can move the car but it feels like it is struggling to pull its own weight.

Does anyone have an idea what could be the problem?

Thanks for your support.

[gtigolfthree]

Hi welcome to the site, first of all I would recheck the cam and ignition timing.

[raferackstraw]

then check for air leaks in the intake system and vacuum hoses, high idle can be caused by addition air being sucked in

[dirtydub]

As gtigolfthree says it sounds like a timing issue.
Its quite easy to get the cambelt a tooth out on the camshaft. Also check the timing mark on the dizzy is pointing near spark plug no1 when set at TDC. Its also easy to set the ignition timing 180 degrees out 

Make sure ur timing the camshaft up with the marks on the inside of the pulley (facing dizzy side) because there are marks on both sides