2000 VW GTI VR6 Refresh...

[MT-Getto]

What plugs you use? NGK BKR5EKUP?

[SweaterVest]

What is the difference between bkr5e vs bkr5ekup? I've been running the bkr5e in my VR.

[bsmif]

What plugs you use? NGK BKR5EKUP?

I bought the BKR5EKUP, didnt really know about the dual tip electrodes until I looked at them up close. I was reading about them online yesterday. Mainly people arguing about gap specs on them. What do you reccommend?

[MT-Getto]

I don't really know. I just know the wrong ones might run like stink.

[bsmif]

I did some more research on the plugs, some say that they last much longer, but don't perform well. I am going to try and see how they do, anything will be better than the plugs that were in there. They were fouled and looked like a lot of oil buildup or something.

[benno3231]

The reason there is debate over plug gap is because you have to use a wire gauge to gap both outside electrodes against the center one.

[bsmif]

So I finally got the correct bolt for the passenger side cv output flange. Reinstalled the flange, attached the CV axles and refilled the transmission. Added new coolant and water. Finally the day has come, It started up first go, ran a little rough for a bit then smoothed out. It still has a cylinder #3 misfire, I drove to the auto store to clear the code in hopes of that taking care of it, but it came back. I have a fairly new coil pack I replaced last year, and new plugs. The previous owner replaced wires, so I'm stumped on the issue. Anyone have any thoughts?

IT RUNS!


Cleaned up engine bay


Also after I started driving it around, I had noticed some fairly loud intermittent clunking noises. Maninly at lower speed of 15-25 mph. And also a loud clunk on the 1-2 shift. After driving it around a little more I believe its the CV axles that are going out. I checked them when I got home and they have some play side to side. Does this sound right?

[bsmif]

So I had some time this morning to work on the car. I wanted to track down the cause of the #3 missfire. Checked my coilpack, and wire. It is getting spark. A compression test revealed only 60 psi in the cylinder. Definately wasnt stoked to find this. Talked to a local vw mechanic and he thought it may be a valve that isnt closing all the way. I am going to spray some seafoam into the cylinder to clean up the valve seats. If not, I may be looking at a head removal which would be a real bummer. If anyone has another opinon or idea I would greatly appreciate it.

[benno3231]

Oh no... if the cylinder is dead i would just drive it and not worry about it. or sell it and move on!

[bsmif]

Oh no... if the cylinder is dead i would just drive it and not worry about it. or sell it and move on!

Yeah I am definitely bummed on that. I am hoping it is the valve and not piston rings. I got a quote for a head rebuild today, and it seems pretty reasonable. I am going to see if the sea foam helps first and go from there.