Service advice

[mike9009]

Hi

My 2.0CU engine camper is running really well. I have owned it for five years and done about 5000 miles in that time. I change the oil every year (maybe excessive??) but have never changed the plugs/ leads/ rotor arm etc in that time. Should I change them if everything is going okay?

Thanks for any advice....


Mike

[kevtherev]

Oil should be changed twice a year, especially if you're a low mileage user.

[California Dreamin]

Oil should be changed twice a year, especially if you're a low mileage user.

Twice a year Kev? that would be 500 miles?


leads/rotor arm/dizzy cap only necessary if you see evidence of tracking (in the dark) visual signs of damage or wear or are experiencing dropping cylinders (under load and cold start) otherwise leave them alone.
Plugs are part of the service schedule, standard plugs every 10K, so if their last change is unknown then perhaps these should be swapped.

Martin

[kevtherev]

cold starts and short engine use causes condensation in the crankcase.
In older engines this is particularly acute as crank ventilation is poor.
You can google the chemistry, but suffice to say the resultant acid is detrimental to bearing surfaces.
A well used engine that gets up to temperature for a good period is going to burn off any condense.
VW state 3000 miles or 6 months.

In the short term this is of no consequence, I agree.

[California Dreamin]

cold starts and short engine use causes condensation in the crankcase.
In older engines this is particularly acute as crank ventilation is poor.
.

I agree but then the OP never mentioned short engine use....it could be that those miles were 5 big journey's

Still, 500 miles, however its used, will have barely coloured its oil and better still if those miles were longer journey's.

Given those miles I would say yearly changes are generous.

Martin

[mike9009]

I do about one 30mile trip every other weekend and a couple of longer trips twice a year. So not lots of short journeys.

In winter, generally when damp, it can stutter a little when cold, but I don't have chokes on my crabs and put it down to that, but could be electrical?

However at the moment all is peachy. Sounds like changing the plugs could be beneficial. Thanks all!

Mike