my '08 1.9Tdi had a rattle in the flywheel which was getting progressively noisier until one morning it wouldn't start at all.. engine not turning over, but a smell like the starter was burning.. not sure what the problem is but really hoping it isn't going to cost an arm and a leg to fix.. any advice/suggestions would be greatly appreciated

Probably an arm and both legs as sounds like a Dual mass flywheel ****ting itself

have also been told that the 1.9Tdi is suitable for a flywheel conversion from dual mass to solid which might make it a bit cheaper

4 hours ago, Finchy71 said:

have also been told that the 1.9Tdi is suitable for a flywheel conversion from dual mass to solid which might make it a bit cheaper

And rougher on take off and harder on clutches it seems from posts on other forums

First I would take starter off and inspect. Had one on an old van years ago that didnt quite disengage and sounded rattly and eventually burnt out. Lucky I didnt do any damage to flywheel gear but melted the starter. There are conversion kits I think last time I looked and from memory Valeo do a solid flywheel etc.. If its not the starter motor then I reckon its gearbox out to check unless you can get a inspection camera through starter hole to have a look. What mileage is on the car and has clutch ever been changed?

Alasdair

it'll be getting left in at some stage to get it repaired, but was hoping I could go armed with a bit of info in case I get fleeced...

162000 miles and the clutch hasn't been changed in the 6 years I've had it (108000 miles when I bought it)

cheers