How to Crank an Engine (VW Golf 1)

When performing a number of repair and adjustment works (valve adjustment, ignition timing, etc.) it is necessary to turn the engine crankshaft. There are several ways to turn the crankshaft. Regardless of the method used, when turning the engine, you should always turn off the ignition system to avoid unexpected flashes in the cylinders. To turn off the system, disconnect the high-voltage wire of the ignition coil from the coil or distributor cap. In addition, it is recommended to unscrew the spark plugs - if there is no compression in the cylinders, it will be much easier to turn the crankshaft.

The easiest way to rotate the engine is with a wrench (the most convenient is a socket or open-end wrench) on the crankshaft pulley mounting bolt (figure 27).



On vehicles with a manual transmission, you can engage the highest gear and then push the vehicle by releasing the parking brake or spin the drive wheel by lifting it off the ground.

In addition, the engine can be turned over by briefly turning on the starter; it is convenient to use a remote switch (figure 28), connected in series between the accumulator and the winding of the retractor relay (solenoid) of the starter.