Loose Turbo Bolts - growing problem

[DaveMack]

Folks ... it appears I'm the next to be struck down with the bolts loosening on my turbo. I'm taking it into the dealer next week, but in the meantime I'd like to coordinate all the info we have on this strange situation

I've spoken with Guy H today and he said that he's heard of about 12 cars that it has happened to (including his 3 times). There appears to be nothing (yet) that can fix this problem once and for all and he even had it happen when he changed to the KO4.

It's strange because basically, it's the same engine that was in the MKIV GTI and yet it didn't happen with that model and is yet to appear/be publicised in any other VAG model using the 1.8T engine. My apologies, Timbo ... you appear to have covered this well ... it has happened with other 1.8T users.

Symptoms to listen for:
Generally most apparent when cold starting. Engine sounds a bit asthmatic (wheezy) and there may be some metallic jingling (no, I'm not kidding).

When the engine warms up, these sounds may disappear. The symptoms gradually get worse (I don't know what happens if the bolts actually fall out - maybe one or more of you do ).

I rang the service department of the dealer today who said he'd never heard of it (maybe he hasn't ... maybe it's ostrich mentality).

Please let me know if you have had this happen to your Pogo and I'll take all the info to the dealer next week. This may necessitate going as high as VWA or even higher.

Thanks,
Dave