Timing belts/tensioners

[RM]

>I've also seen problems with those stupid auto tensioners.  I've >swapped
them out on 2.0 liter jetta's in favor of the old manual adj.
>tensioners.

I need some clarification as I haven't done one of these.  Do I order a
manual tensioner and for what year for that Beetle 2.0?  And does it fit
spot on or what?  Then, do I need a tensioning tool or go 90 degree twist?

TIA
Greetings,
Tihol

On the late 2.0 liter cars, you can in fact swap the tensioner using the old
rabbit style unit, basically used from 1975 through early 1999. Just be sure
to get a quality german tensioner and tension it as you would any previous
model car. I like to tension ever so slightly on the tight side with a new
belt and then recheck after about 500 miles and adjust to spec.

Rolf