what would YOU do to a 16v engine whilst it's out

[Leon27]

It looks like it can be done with the engine in but anyway, it runs from the front of the engine towards the gearbox but then goes round the side under the dizzy to towards the back of the head. I've heard of them rusting and a weak spot may give way on such a long journey.

[Khare]

ah right that pipe, looks ok on the 16v.

[Matty-MK3]

TBH I'd do the belt too, but can someone please explain, are the 16V's chain or belts? I've read about both.

I'd do the rocker gasket and possibly the pump but obviously it all depends on budget... If you're on a tight budget is it worth waiting to see if things like the water pump go wrong or to do it now for safety of mind? If so is it worth taking it out and putting on a new gasket if it all looks groovy? They are a couple of quid from TPS.

Because you could go on and on, head gaskets, manifold gaskets, water pumps tensioners etc. but is it worth it/can you afford it?

[Ess_Three]

TBH I'd do the belt too, but can someone please explain, are the 16V's chain or belts? I've read about both.

Belt drive from crank to exhaust cam...chain between the two cams, under the cam cover.

[Ess_Three]

ah right, probably why then.

Another question, I need to change the rear axle bushes. GSF sell these:
530VG0050       RE AXLE MOUNT BUSH       TOLEDO 2.0 16V 94>         8.50

Would I need to buy two, or does that description only contain 1 bush?

Getting the old bushes out is a right royal pain in the ass.
Getting new rubber bushes in is equally as bad without the VAG tool...
Do yourself a favour and fit some Powerflex rear beam bushes...better handling and a piece of cake to fit!

[Matty-MK3]

TBH I'd do the belt too, but can someone please explain, are the 16V's chain or belts? I've read about both.

Belt drive from crank to exhaust cam...chain between the two cams, under the cam cover.

Cheers fella!

[Khare]

ah right, probably why then.

Another question, I need to change the rear axle bushes. GSF sell these:
530VG0050       RE AXLE MOUNT BUSH       TOLEDO 2.0 16V 94>         8.50

Would I need to buy two, or does that description only contain 1 bush?

Getting the old bushes out is a right royal pain in the ass.
Getting new rubber bushes in is equally as bad without the VAG tool...
Do yourself a favour and fit some Powerflex rear beam bushes...better handling and a piece of cake to fit!

I know, when DH fitted the new wishbone bushes (floflex) they were so easy, literally slip on.
I'm on a seriously tight budget so can't afford powerflex bushes, just standard ones! I'm sure DH will have a decent press at his workshop, he usually changes bushes pretty often on his syncro.

matty - real tight budget as I said, I only worry of major engine components as I'll only get to do them while in the company of danny and DH, but stuff like waterpump, cam cover gasket and other superficial stuff I can do at home no worries, I've got limited tools you see.

[Matty-MK3]

So it may well be worth leaving them or just checking them over then rather then replacing...

[Ess_Three]

I know, when DH fitted the new wishbone bushes (floflex) they were so easy, literally slip on.
I'm on a seriously tight budget so can't afford powerflex bushes, just standard ones! I'm sure DH will have a decent press at his workshop, he usually changes bushes pretty often on his syncro.

Rear beam bushes = nightmare if rubber, and require a special tool ideally.
Easy in poly.

They also make a HUGE difference in feel...so I'd still suggest fitting poly, if you really need to change them.

[Khare]

they really need changing matty, I've inspected them!

Powerflex ones are £30 each, is there anything cheaper?