The VW ABA 2.0L engine is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. However, it can often feel a bit underpowered. One way to address this is by upgrading the camshaft, valve seals, and lifters. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of performing this upgrade on your Vw Aba Engine.
Before You Begin:
- Timing Belt Knowledge: This guide assumes you’re familiar with replacing a timing belt. If not, consult a resource like this one.
- Camshaft Basics: Understand the function of a camshaft, valves, and related components. This resource provides a good overview.
- Alternative Guides: For additional perspectives on valve seal replacement, check out this guide and its mirror.
- Choosing a Camshaft: Research different camshaft profiles and choose one that suits your driving style and performance goals. This forum post offers valuable insights into VW ABA engine camshaft selection.
Why Upgrade Your VW ABA Engine Components?
A camshaft upgrade, coupled with other modifications like a larger intake and exhaust, can significantly improve your VW ABA engine’s performance. By altering valve timing and lift, a new camshaft allows for increased airflow and a broader power band. This guide will also cover replacing lifters and valve seals, essential for optimal performance and longevity.
Time and Tools:
This upgrade typically takes around 4-6 hours. Having the right tools is crucial. You’ll need basic tools, safety gear, a hydraulic jack, safety stands, and an OHV valve spring compressor (e.g., Schley Products 91400). A complete tool list is detailed later in this guide.
Important Considerations:
- Engine Preparation: Change your oil before starting this upgrade. Running a new camshaft with old oil can cause premature wear.
- Timing Marks: Familiarize yourself with the stock timing marks. Accurate timing is crucial for proper engine operation after the upgrade.
- Adjustable Cam Sprockets: These are generally recommended for larger camshafts and modified engines. For mild cam upgrades on stock engines, they are usually not necessary.
Preparing Your VW ABA Engine for the Upgrade
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Remove Intake Components: Disconnect the air intake, air box, and associated components. Unplug sensors from the EGR (OBDI), TPS, IAT, and IAC/ISV. Detach the throttle cable and EGR line. Remove the intake manifold bolts and lift it off.
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Protect Intake Ports: Cover the intake ports with tape to prevent debris from entering the engine.
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Remove Timing Belt Covers: Following the timing belt replacement guide, remove the timing belt covers. Do not remove the timing belt yet.
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Remove Valve Cover: Remove the cam cover nuts and carefully lift off the cover. Inspect for oil leaks.
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Remove Spark Plugs and Wires: Carefully remove the spark plug wires and then the spark plugs.
Upgrading the Camshaft, Lifters, and Valve Stem Seals in Your VW ABA engine
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Set Engine to TDC: Set the engine to Top Dead Center (TDC) and then remove the timing belt. Do not rotate the crankshaft or camshaft after removing the belt.
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Remove Bearing Caps: Carefully remove the bearing caps in the specified sequence to relieve spring pressure gradually. Keep the caps in order.
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Remove Camshaft and Lifters: Remove the camshaft and then use a magnet to lift out the lifters. Inspect them for wear. Clean the cam bearings and valve cover sealing surfaces.
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Remove Cam Bolt: Secure the old camshaft in a vise and remove the cam bolt. Note the keyway position.
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Install Valve Spring Compressor (If Changing Springs): If replacing valve springs, install the valve spring compressor tool. Use compressed air or a rope to hold the valves closed.
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Remove Keepers, Retainers, Springs, and Seals: Remove the keepers, retainers, springs, and finally the valve stem seals, taking care not to scratch the valve stem or lifter bore.
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Install New Seals: Lubricate the new valve stem seals and carefully install them using a suitable tool or heat shrink tubing to prevent damage. Install new springs, retainers, and keepers if applicable.
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Install New Lifters and Camshaft: Install the new lifters with plenty of assembly lube. Install the new camshaft with the lobes for cylinder #1 pointing up.
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Install Cam Seal: Install the new cam seal, lubricating the contact area with the camshaft.
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Reinstall Bearing Caps: Set the crank and distributor back to TDC. Apply assembly lube to the cam journals. Install the bearing caps in the reverse order of removal, tightening them gradually in a criss-cross pattern to the specified torque.
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Install Cam Gear and Torque Bolt: Install the cam gear, key, and bolt. Torque the cam bolt to the specified torque using a breaker bar to hold the camshaft. Lubricate the cam lobes with assembly lube and oil.
Final Steps and Engine Break-In
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Reassemble Remaining Components: Reinstall the cam splash tray, valve cover with a new gasket, and all other removed components.
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Engine Break-In: Start the engine and hold the idle at 2000 RPM for 20 minutes for proper camshaft break-in. Monitor oil pressure carefully. Some lifter noise is normal during this process.
This upgrade can significantly enhance the performance of your VW ABA engine. Always refer to a Bentley manual for specific torque specifications and procedures. Enjoy your newly upgraded VW!
