05/07/2025
🚗 12’ Volkswagen MK6 R 🚗
This MK6R got towed in to us to diagnose an interesting noise.
An inconsistent bottom end rattle, slightly metallic like’ would best describe it.
As this was quite hard to locate, we chose to carry out a process of elimination with the common failures within the EA113 CDL series of engines that are found in these MK6Rs.
Given the calibre of the noise, we chose to go straight for a compression test, results suggest no failures or irregularities within the cylinder and/or head
We went ahead and removed/inspected the oil pump balance shaft unit, bearings and shafts were in good serviceable condition.
The oil that was in the sump had a light shimmer to it with some questionable flakes, checked big ends and main bearings, which were also in good serviceable condition.
Following this, we checked crank shaft end float (thrust washer clearancing), total float was 0.12MM which had just fell within spec. This still did not warrant the noise nor condemn anything we’ve checked.
Moving further, there was an absurd amount of rust dust and metallic like material within the timing cover area.
Removing the remainder of the covers from the initial inspection of the oil pump, we found steel chunks embedded within the teeth of the timing belt.
Resetting the engine to TDC and removing the timing belt, we went ahead and checked the idlers and tensioner pulleys, we found the culprit. The water pump.
The impeller had become adrift from the shaft from a failed bearing within the housing. Luckily we’re in winter and ambient temperature did help with no overheating.
Fitted a Brand new Optibelt kit and water pump, reassembled the whole engine, vac bled/filled cooling system, carried out an engine oil change and reset all adaptations, the noise is gone!
Does your VW need attention?
Contact us now!
🏠 Unit 2/89 Hunter Lane, Hornsby
📞 0404 718 158
📧 [email protected]
🌍 www.mdautotech.com.au
