TDC - Cant seem to get Rotor aiming for the notch...

there's lots of clever folks on the forum but often its too much information. have a look on youtube for lots about setting valve clearances, starting at no. 1 cylinder with both valves closed and tappets free and moving.

have a look at this, there are others to look at but they will help you understand the principles

 

The thing is I think I get the principals and have enough knowledge to be dangerous in this regard.

Pretty sure established TDC but on cylinder one the feeler gauge doesnt go completely through - seemingly caught at the bottom edge of the 'follower' (is that whats its called). The two pieces dont sit flush..

You can kind of see that (albeit nowhere near as bad as 1) in this pic of 2


For arguments sake lets say I was adjusting this one - the feeler gauge would slide in from the top, but wouldn't reach the bottom, so do you loosen it off so the gauge can pass through (with slight drag).

Thanks

Also like this pic shows

 

Yes, the feeler should pull through the tightest spot.

 

One thing is the end of the screws can get beaten up with time so the ends are not nicely rounded but get steps worn in them by the valve stems which mean as you turn them the step hits the valve stem and the feeler gauge stops on the step.

 

So they should be adjusted to allow feeler gauge complete passage through? As @Dubs suggested?

 

in which case they are definitely in need of adjustment. Thank you. I best take it all apart again and have another go.

 

Take them off, inspect, and replace them if worn with a step on the end.
Problem is if there is a step then the gap will come and go every 180 degrees of screw rotation as the step lines up with the valve stem. They will be a pig to adjust.

Buy a bag of adjuster screws and nuts on eBay...

A while back (2010/2011) VWH sold a load of really soft screws.

In the end the feeler gauge should just slide through and then while holding the screw steady with a screwdriver you tighten up the nut with a ring spanner. Or a magic VW tool that does the same job but probably comes with a price tag to go with the Hazet toolbox porn.

 

Interesting... What's the search term I should be using for them... Not quite sure what they called Officially
I is a bit
tuesday_wildchild

Lol

 

E.g.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/191228425300

 

Brilliant.. Thank you!

 

To find number 1
You could undo the 36mm bolt on the crank , turn the top pulley till the crank key way is at 9 o'clock . The number 1 tappet adjusters should be showing 6 thou gap. That's number 1. then turn the dizzy till the rotor and the notch in the dizzy line up. That's number 1 plug lead position.