How difficult is it to install a new timing belt kit and water pump yourself?

[Zano]

I'm nearing the 7yr interval to do my timing belt, and was thinking of having a go at it. I'm out of work ATM so I have plenty of time on my hands.

A VW mechanic quoted me $1400 and that included the water pump with a metal impeller, instead of plastic. He made a point of mentioning crappy plastic impellers.

For those who have installed a timing belt kit and water pump themselves, was it easy enough?

I'm reasonably handy on cars having owned a FIAT years ago - servicing, drive shafts, clutch etc. For my current MK6 TDI Golf I do most of the basic stuff, fluids and filters, including DSG service.

Is there a recommended kit? From memory the last kit was an SKF one that was installed by a mechanic.

[h100vw]

Just like any other belt but you need tools to hold the pump and crank in position. Google your engine code and locking tools. Have a look at ozwidetools or mechanics tool hire if you want to rent instead of buying a cheap kit.

[Lucas_R]

Plenty of DIY guides online or Youtube for the 2.0TDI. If you have the time and the right tools then go for it. But as above, you need the correct tools to lock the camshaft and crank in position so you dont stuff up the timing of the engine.

Engine Timing Tool Cam Lock compatible for VW Audi A3 A4 A5 A6 Q5 VAG 1.4 1.6 2.0 TDI CR

Wide this OzWideTools link, there is a hire option:
Audi/VW Engine Timing Tool Kit - 1.6/2.0 TDI

[Zano]

Thanks for the info. I'll do some further research for the needed tools and method.
One last query... Where is the best place to buy the needed kit, and is SKF a good brand ?

[Lucas_R]

How difficult is it to install a new timing belt kit and water pump yourself?

Nothing wrong with SKF, Dayco, Contitech, INA, Febi, Gates etc. All well known brands.

Places I would personally look is:
RunAutoParts
VAGParts
Sparesbox
Automotive Superstore

Have purchased from all the above shops and no issues. Note Sparesbox can have delays with shipping as they drop-ship i believe.

Link to timing belt kit

If you have an Amazon account then there are some timing belt kits on there for about $225-260 but they ship from Europe. Good price you are happy to wait a few weeks.

Note some of the cheaper kits do not include a new water pump. Make sure you get a kit that includes the water pump.

[JustCruisn]

That kit linked is good. I used SKF kits, RunAuto was the only place I could find that had everything in the kit. The threads that the tensioners and idlers sit on should be replaced.

[Zano]

The threads that the tensioners and idlers sit on should be replaced.

By "threads" do you mean the studs that they mount on ?

[JustCruisn]

Yep the studs have thread on both ends. They thread into the block, and the tensioner nut on the other end.
They are known to snap. They are TTY/stretch bolts. The spec is like 60nm then 1/4 turn. The 1/4 turn is the stretch.

Timing job is not difficult per se, just fiddly and time consuming. Watch some vids before you start. Ensure you have the right tools & parts and feel confident for the whole job, lots of crap has to be removed to get access.
If you were in Brisbane I might even be swayed to come help

[Zano]

Yep the studs have thread on both ends. They thread into the block, and the tensioner nut on the other end.
They are known to snap. They are TTY/stretch bolts. The spec is like 60nm then 1/4 turn. The 1/4 turn is the stretch.

"Known to snap" gives me some concern to say the least, but I've got a couple of torque wrenches so will proceed with care.

[carpy]

"Known to snap" gives me some concern to say the least, but I've got a couple of torque wrenches so will proceed with care.

I wouldn't try 60nm on those studs or they will indeed snap.
Quote from Erwin : Note.
Renew stud for tensioning roller only
if damaged. Specified torque for
stud: 15 Nm. Studs are not TTY. Nut is then 20 nm+45 deg.
Bottom stud for roller is same 15nm. Nut is just 20nm.
Be careful, some US how to guides have some errors.

[Zano]

A timely comment! I've got a Haynes manual and it has different sections for petrol and diesel timing belt change, so it's easy to mix some of the procedure up. I think I'll get the Erwin chapter as a backup to my Haynes manual.

I've never heard of TTY bolts/studs before so I've learnt something in all of this!