Turbo

I need a turbo for a 2001 TDI. My mechanic says the turbo will not hold a vacuum and that means the diaphragm either has a hole in it or is rusted away and I probably need a new turbo. The issue here is a new turbo is $1000.00 plus installation , no sure I want to spend that much on the car.

Bob

Sounds like your actuator has rusted out. You can replace just the actuator. Roughly $100 from one of the vendors on TDIClub.

http://idparts.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=117&products_id=530

It is a common repair and there is plenty of DIY installs online if you feel inclined.

Yup, new actuator......mechanic must have worked at a VW dealership, replace the biggest most expensive part....oh my.

in other news, that mechanic doesn't know tdi's. I would seriously consider bringing your car to someone who actually does. It'll save you money and heart ache

Yup. Time for a new mechanic. Lots of gurus on the website (not sure about how many are in the stratford area, but I'm sure theres a few in London and the Kitchener/Cambridge/Waterloo regions.

Actuator is readily available, although a standard garage might not know that or where to get it. Tell your mechanic they can get it here: http://autocamping.ca/ (wholesale only - no retail)

Belly pan/skid plate present? My 2000 which has had a skid plate for years shows little signs of rust. These things prevent(slow)many problems.