Just about to do a cam belt change on my Octavia 1999 TDI 110(AHF/ASV). Read loads of threads and watched vids. From a practical stand point looks OK if a little cramped - get all the right bits/tools, take my time and use a generous helping of swear words. Can put up with a few cuts and grazes as my only available garage whants £583 for the belt+water pump job(£85/hr labour). Extra for the aux belt and any other items! Could easily see a bill for £700++!!!

The one point that concerns me is the diesel injection pump timing. Seen it mentioned in various threads and have been on the Ross-Tech site.

Is this neccessary/advisable and if so what bits do I require. Even if I have to buy the £270 outfit the total including parts and tools(£200'ish) is still much cheaper than the garage and I'm not sure that they do the timing anyhow.

Many thanks in anticipation of your help.

It shouldn't really be necessary, if you set the pulleys at the start before removing the old belt. We always check it at work, mainly because we can, but we very rarely have to make an adjustment. The adjustment is made by slackening the bolts on the pump pulley, the elongated bolt holes allow for adjustment, you dont have to move it by much to take the timing out of tolerance.

You can always have the timing checked by someone with VCDS at a later date, as only the upper belt cover has to be removed to get at the pulley bolts, if you have to make an adjustment.

It's adviseable to get new engine mount bolts along with the obvious parts required. Bear in mind that you will need to support the engine with the mount removed and may need to raise or lower it. You can get better access to the intercooler pipe clips with the headlamp removed.