Chain Length, Checking

NOTE:

If an elongated camshaft timing chain is suspected based on complaints (for example noises), the chain length can be checked as described in the following.

Procedure

-- Remove the noise insulation. Refer to OVERVIEW - NOISE INSULATION .

-- Remove the right front wheel housing liner. Refer to FRONT WHEEL HOUSING LINER, REMOVING AND INSTALLING .

-- Remove the bolts -arrows-.

Fig 1: Identifying Air Guide Pipe

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

-- Remove the air duct pipe by lifting the clip -2- and opening the screw-type clamp -3-.

-- Remove the plug -arrow-. The plugs must be replaced.

Fig 2: Identifying Plug

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

-- Turn the vibration damper in direction of engine rotation until the chain tensioner piston is extended the maximum distance in the direction of the -arrow-.

Fig 3: Identifying Vibration Damper

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

-- Count the visible piston teeth.

NOTE:

The visible teeth are all of the teeth that are located to the right of the chain tensioner housing -arrow-.

If six or fewer splines are visible: the camshaft timing chain does not need to be replaced.
If seven or more splines are visible: the camshaft timing chain must be replaced. Refer to CAMSHAFT TIMING CHAIN, REMOVING AND INSTALLING .