Thread: 300 Tdi self servicing?

Originally Posted by Luke56000

How hard is it to service a 300Tdi engine (normal service filters, oil etc) on your own? I've got no current mechanical expertise but find it quite easy to follow instructions, I've got the haynes service manual and can source a rave manual
Is there any special tools or anything I need?

engine oil/filter is straight forward

tip
save a 2L milk bottle....cut it in half, crack the filter than place the milk bottle over the filter, undo the filter this save oil running down your arm and all over the front diff

diff, gearbox and t-case are straight forward........i use 20L of oil and a pump which makes it a whole lot easier

others should pipe in with more info

50mm flares are wide unless you plan on fitting huge rubber to off set rims, you will have to cut the CP to fit flares but thats only another layer for the grinder to cut thru.

TDI is very easy to get started on a few DIY servicing items.

Engine oil and filter - no major tricks.
Gearbox and transfer box. Easy to check oil level and quality. To refill you need a small hand pump as the fill point is in a tight space underneath.
Diff oil level and quality - no major tricks.
CV oil level and quality - no major tricks. Some are filled with oil, some have a shot of grease. (Do a search for more info).
Air filter depending on how long since replacement. Piece of cake.

To check oil levels you need a 1/2" drive socket handle to open diff and transfer box. Torx bit to open gearbox (can't remember size).

That will save you a good few $$ for a start and all very easy.

You could then move onto wheel bearings - you will need a 52mm hub nut spanner. Relatively cheap, but another tool you probably don't have.
Drive shafts need greasing - need a grease gun. No major tricks once you have the grease gun.
Valve clearances - set of feeler gauges needed. Maybe $10? and a small spanner. Not hard, do a search for more info.

I've probably forgotten something (anyone?), but that must be pretty close to a full service with only a few new tools needed. I'm confident you could buy all the tools needed for less than the cost of 1 full service.