TOOLS-distributor / hydraulic lifter / t-belt

[Steven Hauptmann]

Hello all,

I finished the distributor, hydraulic lifter and t-belt replacement and
while I have yet to finish the write-up as promised, I can tell you as to
the usefulness of the tools that I purchased for this job from Zelenda. The
tool part number and price that I paid are underlined. All tools were
purchased as new tools with the exception of the camshaft sprocket tool,
which was available used.

*	Access to the distributor (also thermostat and FPR) was ideal with
the intake manifold (IM) removed.  The IM tool (VAG 1669 / $19.50) was VERY
VERY useful. I won't say it can't be removed without this tool as we have
some very handy and creative wrench turners on the list, but it certainly
was easy street with this tool.

*	The distributor alignment tool (3233 / $17) was very useful in
keeping the distributor pointing at #1 (duh). ;)  I'm certain one can get
the distributor installed properly without the use of this tool, however
with the tool there is zero uncertainty as to its proper installation, just
push in the distributor and your done. Very nice

*	The t-belt tensioner pulley, pulling tool (3034 / $67)  was a snap
to use and made the job of removing this pulley very easy.  It took about 10
seconds to have the old pulley in my hand.  I had serious reservations
buying this one, considering the price, but I had not changed this pulley on
my last t-belt change so I felt I needed to have this tool to be sure it was
done this time. However, now that I realize there is plenty of room to use a
conventional puller or to pry from both sides, I probably would not buy it
again.  I would have been better off getting a pair of small, inexpensive
pry bars from someplace like Harbor Freight Tools.  All well, live and
learn. Hopefully it will work on my future Audi's as well.

*	The camshaft sprocket tool / spanner wrench (VW 544 / $30 used)
worked like a charm holding the cam sprocket so R&R of the retaining bolt
can be accomplished.  Removal of the sprocket is needed to R&R the camshaft
seal.  This was a good purchase as it also works on my GTI, and likely many
other VW/Audi cam sprockets.

I'll let you know when I get the distributor and hydraulic lifter
replacement procedure finished.  Hopefully that will be soon.

Steve Hauptmann,
South Carolina
156,000 mi,  temperamental lifter racket no more!