Schmokin'

I recently resurrected an '01 Jetta w/ 250k miles on the clock. Had a busted up exhaust and a non functioning starter, and has a bad fan control module. Otherwise it's fine, I think. While I had the exhaust apart, I noticed I could see straight through the catalytic converter, no baffles, nothing. Has no codes, no CEL.
Anyway, it smokes a lot on startup, and continues to do so when I just drive it around. It's especially noticeable on the overrun, or when I give it lots of pedal. I can also hear the turbo spooling really well.

I think the exhaust is aftermarket because the downpipe doesn't have any provision to accommodate the mount on the subframe, and I had to add the mounts on the crossmember. Other than that I think it's okay.

Is this a timing issue? Turbo? Exhaust valve problem? I also noticed that the oil is right at the top of the cross hatched pattern on the dipstick, and the former owner seemed obsessed with oil level.

Ideas? Should I sell this thing right away or run it?

compression test

Hm. I have a compression tester but I've only ever used it on motorcycles. Pretty sure a diesel tester would have a higher rating, right?

Very much so. You need to be able to accommodate compression up to at least 550 psi. 19.5:1 (not accounting for loss in combustion chamber volume if there's carbon build up) dynamically ends up pretty high. A TDI engine in good condition can return up to 520 psi when tested warm.

Cheers,

PH

Thanks, I'll check mine.

So I asked around, a diesel mechanic friend of mine has one but he's asking what adapter I need (Lang vs Tool Aid)?