Diesel pump leaking

[Mike Robinson]

Well after 22 years it looks like it is time to have my diesel pump rebuilt. The engine (AAZ) probably has about 100,000 miles on it, 50,000 in a Westy.

Any advice out there?

I can go local or send it to Giles

If I send it to Giles is it worth getting some level of a performance enhancement?

I think it is worth getting the injectors rebuilt at the same time. They are noisey and I have to guess they are out of spec.

The engine is an AAZ without an intercooler, how much performance is worth putting into the pump without a pyro guage and intercooler?

Thanks

Mike

[Gnarlodious]

I just put a Giles pump in an AAZ with (allegedly) 90k and its running real good. Dyno read 92 HPs in Denver (think of thin air). Mostly it is a function of affordability. If you can afford it, do it.

OTOH a pump leaking usually just needs some seals replaced. Mechanically inside it should be good for years more. Also I should warn you that Giles is busy and a rebuild may take some time.

The performance pump will spray more fuel into your engine which will produce more waste heat. A pyro gauge is mandatory and a good functioning cooling system. I had to upgrade my radiator and put in a cooler fan switch, etc. Even so, you are not going to be able to push it to the max without risking burned exhaust valves. An oil temp gauge is a good idea too, as the fully loaded AAZ puts out a LOT of heat.

Also keep in mind the transmission and axles, which are going to see more wear and heat. A common mistake is to wear out your top gear only to discover they are rare because VW no longer makes them. A transmission oil temp gauge is a good idea unless you really don’t plan on pushing it too hard.

You can do what I did, build a strong engine but drive it like it stock.
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Vanagon ’83 diesel AAZ w/Giles injection, 5spd 4.57R&P+TBD and a '78 diesel Rabbit

[Mike Robinson]

Thanks G

I talked to Giles and I am getting a mild performance pump built. Keeping the turbo boost as standard, and getting the injectors rebuilt.

You are probably correct about about it needing just a reseal, but I may as well get an upgrade at the same time.

The cooling system is mostly new or in good condition with a fan override switch, transaxle was rebuilt by AA 30,000 km ago, and I think the best idea is not to push it too hard, although I have to think the extra power will get used on the hills! I drive watching the temp guage so I am somewhat (as much as you can from a temp guage) aware about the engine temps and back off.

M

82 Westy Diesel AAZ

[Gnarlodious]

Good.

You are going to need more than the stock temp gauge. At the very least an EGT (pyrometer). Think of it as cheap insurance against valve burnout.

Here is what I did:
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=593363
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Vanagon ’83 diesel AAZ w/Giles injection, 5spd 4.57R&P+TBD and a '78 diesel Rabbit

[I am Wildcat]

I think you will be very happy with that choice. I had a local shop (in Texas) rebuild the pump on my AAZ and it was much stronger than before, but definitely not as nice as a Giles setup.
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No more van. Wildcat has a new home.
1997 Land Rover Defender 90
2005 MB SL55 AMG
2014 Tesla Model S P85+