02 Jetta cam follower failure

[mrbowtieguy]

I just picked up a 02 Jetta with 289k, the cam lobe is worn mangled and the follower is collapsed on #3 cyl. intake valve. But its not because of a timing belt failure, previous owner stated the timing belt was replaced 50k ago. and visual inspection indicates no deterioration or cracks, The cam, IP and Crank all line up. Car runs but very bad miss which is expected with a valve not opening.
My question is what are other causes of a failure like this besides a timing belt.

next question is if you already have the head off and the pistons look ok i should probably put a fresh TB kit while its tore down that far. I'll have the head reworked.

 

[greengeeker]

The cause is porosity of the camshaft and is strangely an issue more common on the 2002 model year. As long as the valve wasn't bent you can typically get by with just a camshaft and lifter install and be on your way.

 

[Yblocker]

I would agree with greengeeker that you probably could get away with just cam and lifters with the one caveat that at 289 k, one could make the argument that the head likely qualifies for a birthday party at the machine shop.

 

[jettawreck]

I would agree with greengeeker that you probably could get away with just cam and lifters with the one caveat that at 289 k, one could make the argument that the head likely qualifies for a birthday party at the machine shop.

X2.
And there would be NO good reason not to install a complete new TB system kit. I would never consider reusing one with 50K miles on it while you have it all apart now.