Cracked cylinder head on old diesel – repair or replace?
My 2007 1.9 TDI Golf has a small crack in the head near one exhaust valve seat (confirmed by pressure test). Overheating history, but runs okay now. Mechanic says new head is expensive- any good aftermarket heads or rebuild options? Thinking of sourcing parts myself to save cash.
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Cracked heads on PD TDI engines are unfortunately common from overheating or age, especially around valve seats or pre-chamber area. Rebuilding is possible if crack is small and not through water jacket, but often new or reman heads are safer long-term to avoid repeat failures. I went the parts route for a rebuild on a similar engine- sourced valves, guides, seats, and head bolts separately. Found a solid selection of cylinder head components at https://elartcom.eu/categories/cylinder-head-parts-123 - they carry individual parts like valve guides, valve stem seals, intake/exhaust valves, and even some seat inserts for VW group. Picked hardened seats and new guides that matched OE specs. Head was skimmed, parts pressed in, and reassembled- engine compression even again, no more smoke. Cheaper than full new head and reliable if machine shop does good work. Their category has lots for 1.9 TDI- check compatibility by engine code to get the right sizes.