77 2.0(vw bus)

akgrown · 01-12-2002, 04:44 PM

while doing the valves in a new-to-me 77 2.0(bus) it feel like the valve rocker arms are spring loaded. in my 73's 1.7(914) they don't. is this nomal and if so, a) is there a tool to lock them in place? b) is it worth it to look into getting one?

thanks

Joe Bob · Joe Bob's Garage

Probably becuase they are hydraulic and need no adjustment.....

Dave at Pelican Parts · Dave at Pelican Parts's Garage

They may very well be hydraulic, in a 76 Bus. Look for solid spacers between the rocker arms, and skinny steel (magnet will stick) pushrods. Solid-lifter motors, when stock, came with springs between the rocker arms, and fatter aluminum pushrods.

The adjustment procedure for hydraulics is very different from that for solids. Or rather, the specs are very different, and the procedure is somewhat different. Don't drive a hydro motor if you've adjusted the valves to solid specs.

Surf around http://www.type2.com for an article or two about adjusting hydraulics.

--DD

MASSIVE TYPE IV · 01-13-2002, 05:37 PM

The TII started using hydros in august 1978 The engine code was GE.

The earlier cases can be swapped to hydro from solids, so it may still be hydro, even if it is a GD engine case..

Hyrdos still need adjustment, just not as often.

rice_killer · 01-13-2002, 07:19 PM

i can tell you the easiest way in the world for setting the hydro's on an engine.

take the engine out of the car and bench run it on a stand till it gets warmed up, while it is running take off a valve cover and just tighten the bolt just tight enough for the tapping noise to stop. then turn it another 1/4 turn.
do this for all 4 cyclinders and remember, it only works if the engine is running while you adjust them. and be careful, a rag or shirt sleve or hair in the valve train can ruin your engine, as well as your body.

this is my prefered method for hydro's on everyhitng from vw to chevy. it is kinda messy but it gets the job done.

01-13-2002, 07:55 PM

That's the easiest?...

rice_killer · 01-13-2002, 08:01 PM

well its easier if you can leave the engine in the car like on an american car.
but on the 914 you would not want to have the exposed valve train above your head leaking hot oil on your face.

thing is, the engine should be taken out every so often to check for wear on the engine as well as tranny clutch etc. so this is the perfect time.

i used to do it every 10K on y other car, because it would give e the chance to check the rest out as well.
not a bad plan imo.

btw, its a little tricky with the vw type rockers because the adjuster isnt on the rocke mounts, its right on top the valve stem. but it can be done. and quite easliy might i add.

DSPTurtle · 01-13-2002, 08:08 PM

Shawn....that was funny!!!!!