Video summary

REPLACING timing chain on a 2.0t tsi volkswagen, audi

Main summary

Key takeaways

Product Review

Product / Kit Being Reviewed

An aftermarket timing chain replacement kit for Volkswagen/Audi 2.0T engines (commonly seen on vehicles like the VW Tiguan). The video emphasizes what’s included and how specialty tools make the job easier.


Key Features Mentioned (Kit + Tools)

What the kit includes

The kit is described as including “just about everything” needed for the job, including:

  • All three chains
  • Sprockets
  • Guides

Sprocket inclusion detail

This particular kit includes a new crank sprocket—the speaker notes that not all kits do.

Lower-cost option exists

Cheaper kits may not include everything, which could mean missing items such as some combination of:

  • chains
  • guides
  • sprockets
  • other necessary parts

Price mentioned

  • The kit/tool set discussed is about $200.

Specialty tools highlighted

Specialty tooling is emphasized as important for correct timing alignment and safe disassembly/reassembly, including tools to:

  • Loosen the camshaft bolt
  • Lock camshafts in place during disassembly so timing marks can be re-aligned
  • Hold the camshafts/bridge during bridge removal/installation

The video also mentions the kit has configurations for other engine types, though some extra tools may be unnecessary for this specific job.


User Experience / Job Difficulty (As Described)

The video stresses that the task is more than a simple “swap chain”. It involves substantial disassembly and careful timing work, including:

  • Supporting/splitting work around the transmission/motor
  • Removing motor mount(s) (two-piece)
  • Using triple square fasteners
  • Removing water cooling lines and catching antifreeze
  • Removing:
    • dipstick
    • cam sensor
    • top cover
  • Using special crank/cam locking tools to prevent cam movement

Timing alignment is critical

  • Timing chains have colored links that must align with triangle marks (and dot/groove marks) on sprockets.
  • Camshafts must be locked before removing tension and guides.

Guide replacement emphasized

The speaker notes that it’s often more important to replace the guides than the chain, based on guide condition (e.g., brittleness in older parts).

Reassembly approach

  • Reassembly is done in reverse order after confirming marks and restoring tension.

Pros Mentioned

  • Comprehensive coverage: includes all three chains, sprockets, and guides
  • Correctness/reliability: specialty tools and replacing guides improve the chance of correct timing alignment
  • Better value vs partial kits: reduces the risk of missing critical components that cheaper kits may omit
  • Positive outcome reported: “everything runs like a top again.”

Cons / Downsides Mentioned

  • Cost: about $200 for the kit/tool set discussed
  • Some extra tools may be unnecessary: the set includes items not required for this specific job
  • Lower-cost kits may be incomplete: “doesn’t include everything,” potentially requiring additional purchases

Comparisons Made

Full kit vs. lower-cost kit

  • Full kit: includes chains/sprockets/guides (“just about everything”)
  • Cheaper kits: may not include everything, increasing the chance you’ll need extra parts

Tool-set completeness vs. basic sets

  • Basic tool sets may cost less than ~$200, but may lack specialty tools that make timing alignment easier and more accurate.

Unique Points Mentioned (Consolidated)

  • Timing chain replacement procedure for Audi/VW 2.0T
  • Example application: VW Tiguan
  • Need to support transmission/motor
  • Remove motor mount (upper + side piece connected to engine)
  • Use triple square fasteners
  • Catch coolant when removing water cooling lines
  • Remove dipstick, cam sensor, top cover to access double overhead cams
  • Specialty crank tool details:
    • pins stabilize the crank
    • leverage/breaker bar used to loosen the crank bolt
  • Remove bottom pulley (requires a plastic piece to take up slack for plate removal)
  • Remove spark plugs to make it easier to turn the engine
  • Colored chain links align with triangle/dot/groove marks
  • Turbo elbow removal; note tensioner bolt is hidden behind the tensioner
  • Cam locking tools required to prevent cam movement while connecting chains
  • Aluminum “bridge” holds camshafts together; must remove tensioner first to remove the bridge
  • Replace chain guides (especially if brittle); guide replacement considered more important than chain replacement
  • Some kits may not include a new crank sprocket, but this one does
  • Sprocket installs one way due to a flat spot, and alignment “clicks into place”
  • Oil pump chain alignment doesn’t require timing marks (guide/tensioner handles it)
  • Don’t release the tensioner until the bridge is installed and marks are aligned
  • Reassembly includes: tension release, clean parts, reinstall gaskets, reverse order
  • Reconnect: serpentine belt, turbo ducting, motor mounts, water pipes; refill radiator fluid

Speakers / Viewpoints

  • Single speaker (no multiple perspectives provided in the subtitles).

Concise Verdict / Recommendation

If you’re doing a VW/Audi 2.0T timing chain job, this comprehensive ~$200 kit (all three chains + sprockets + guides) along with the specialty tools described appears to be a strong choice over cheaper incomplete kits—especially because correct alignment requires cam/crank locking tooling and proper guide replacement.

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