New (used) TDI - Tampa, Fl (mechanic & biodiesel)

[Jesse_Garron]

Howdy,

I've looked through quite a few posts, so hopefully this isn't too redundant.

Just got a '99 New Beetle, 65K miles, and is my first TDI. So, I have a few questions.

Timing Belt - this seems to be very popular is as it is so essential. Local VW (independent) guy did the pre-purchase inspection. Only thing he noticed that needed work was the TB procedure. His list of parts included most, if not all of the items on the .pdf for belt replacement including bearings, both belts, mounts, water pup, etc. I am not going to do this myself, so can you folks recommend a mechanic?

Bio-diesel. I'd like to start running Biodiesel, however... I have no idea if this car has ever had anything but dino diesel. Is my only concern sediment in the fuel filter? Any down side? If it's just the filter - should I wait till I've run a tankful of 100 thru to change filter? I'd rather get the timing belt procedure dome ASAP, but will I be paying more to have the fuel filter changed separately? Seems to be located away from everything else, so it doesn't seem so.

Also, where in the heck can I get biodiesel? I found Ward Oil co, but it seems they only sell 55 gallon drums. Any retail outlets suggested, or may I purchase some from someone here?

I'd be interested in attending any meets, so I'll be looking out for those.

Thanks to all.

J.G.

 

[ymz]

Congratulations on the car!!

You're in luck to be living close to one of the TDI-Club Timing Belt Gurus - Keith Scarborough - his UserID here is LWB053, and I assure you he'll do the best TB job your car could get within many hundered miles' radius !!

Since you've obviously been reading around here, you know about the usual suspects supplying the timing belt parts, and I'm sure Keith will advise, so please try to get in touch with him soon for an evaluation.

All the best,

Yuri.

 

[LWB053]

Thanks for the kind words, Yuri!

JG, got your PM and responding off-line...

And to help you with your biodiesel questions, shoot a PM to Viesel (Bill). He's brewing the stuff in south Tampa.

Keith

 

[Jesse_Garron]

Re: New (used) TDI - Tampa, Fl (mechanic & biodies

Well, thanks for everyone's help so far. I've contacted Keith and got some good advice. Thanks, Yuri, for getting me in touch with him. Looks like I'll get the 100K TB kit from Dieselgeeks and set up a time with Keith.

I'm still trying to hook up with Viesel about some BD. Looks like a prescient time for me to get a diesel! Does anyone have an e-mail or ph # for Viesel (bill)?

I also need to fix a few interior items such as replacing the headliner (drooping), side panel material near door latch (loose), and seat material around rear seat fold-down latch (coming out). I know of a local guy that can do all of this. He did another vehicle & it turned out great, so I'll let folks know how he does with VW's.


Thanks to all!

JG

 

[Viesel]

Re: New (used) TDI - Tampa, Fl (mechanic & biodies

We are actually moving my processor to a warehouse and up the production to eventually 1000 gals per week. The demand has been very strong in the last few months.
Jesse, you got PM.

 

[Jesse_Garron]

Re: New (used) TDI - Tampa, Fl (mechanic & biodies

Timing belt is done! thanks to Keith. What a guru! Really knows his stuff. I feel so much better having everything done.

Thanks to Viesel for the tip on the local co-op. Enjoying biodiesel and no diesel smell.

Great board, thanks for the help and tips.

JG


Oh, had to mention that Keith gave me a ride in his chipped & straight exhaust Jetta. Apprently it has a switch from which you may choose either off, or drive it like you stole it. Amazing little engines!

 

[KorMelisTDIJetta]

Re: New (used) TDI - Tampa, Fl (mechanic & biodies

Im glad to here Keith is doing timing belts. I wasnt sure he was doing these. Looks like I will know where to go for my change. Kory