Viewer Automotive Questions ~ Podcast Episode 182

Today I take questions on: proper torque specs, Jetta trunk issues, timing chains and more. If you have a question about a car, car repair, DIYs on your car, Volkswagen, mechanic's tools, or anything car related, ask it up.

Join me as I take your questions on:
(1:24) ~ The truth about torque specs
(6:54) ~ Jetta trunk issues
(09:08) ~ CCTA timing chain replacement parts?
(13:47) ~ Tips for replacing mk5 AC line :(

Humble Mechanic Podcasts

Project White Wookie ~ MK3 GTI Videos

Failed VW parts videos

Tool and Product Reviews

How To videos

MK1 VR6 Swap Videos

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GOOD STUFF ON AMAZON

[macro]

Make sure you torque those spark plugs in the correct order

[GarthGoldberg]

I replaced the motor mount on my MINI. I tightened the bolts to what I thought was pretty tight, then went back and re-torqued with a torque wrench (75 and 100 ft-lb). They were all much looser than I expected.

On the drain plug, with a new crush washer, you can feel the crush washer "give" as it's being tightened.

I never torqued spark plugs, but I recall you saying that you always do so. Next time, I'm going to torque them.

Sometimes, the hardest part is finding the right torque spec.

[AircooledAl]

Dude thanks for answering my question (first one) totally agree with everything you say, love the 40 Newton braps I'm totally using that in work tomorrow 😂😂 I love that you mentioned that you get the feel for a certain ratchet. I ALWAYS reach for my £8 ratchet that's sat next to my £90 snap on ratchet, simply because I know the feel of that one better over 10 years. £8 ratchet lasting that long I know crazy. Thanks man!!

[CKilger]

1 thing on the Torque question, with Lug Bolts or Nuts, not being torqued properly can lead to premature warping of rotors, and with axle nuts, depending on the vehicles wheel bearing set up, improper torque can lead to premature bearing/hub failure, very common issue on GM hub/bearing assemblies

[monasterix]

Talk about all the causes of the EPC light please!

[braddowns]

i have always used the torque specs for engines, transmissions and AC and other components there are alot like Charles mentioned drain plugs and such that you just know the feel for.. when it comes to suspension brakes and Lugnuts I am definitely a torque Nazi. that can be very dangerous with impacts IE stretching the bolts and components or not getting them tight enough. with brakes especially alloy wheels and cast rotors they can be warped by improper torquing. absolutely drives me nuts on these car shows where you see them put on $1, 000.00 worth of wheels or more and zap them down with an impact. these guys are supposed to be the best of the best and showing people how to do things

[kfrdubber]

Although I'm not a mechanic, I think the oil drain plug should always be torqued. Our 2002 Golf had it's oil drain plug stripped. I think this was a problem that came up over time. This is after being exclusively serviced a dealer.

[georgechoquette]

Need to know how to install the serpentine belt on the Audi Q7. Specifically, the back belt that runs the alternator.
How to you create slack in the tensioner? There is no 3/8" wrench input like on other cars. Thanks.

[alexdao]

Hey HumbleMechanic, so I recently started as a lube tech at VW. I previously worked at Chrysler as an apprentice for 3-4 months. Did a lot of heavy line work which I like to do and was really setting the goal into being a service tech over there until I was fired. And before that I've worked at an independent aftermarket BMW shop for a year and half.

What advice can you give someone who is fairly new to the dealer into becoming a service tech?

[masondelaney]

I have never torqued spark plugs. I just get them pretty snug without applying all my force

[Iceyguides]

This isn't a VW question as I am a Chrysler tech but how do you feel about Warranty claims, on the Chrysler side we are put through extreme questioning before we can get things like a short block or a transmission. Should companies be more trusting of their technicians?

[Peter_Riis_DK]

You're lame and don't drink anymore? Haha, wonderful ending!

[infidel]

Would you buy a 2005 v8 torareg that's in good condition with 110000 miles on it?

[Placebo]

Leave yourself plenty of time is VW ideologic...

[vwx]

Since you have to be publicly correct I will say it. Those people who do not use a torque wrench on everything are the butcher mechanics!