When replacing the timing belt in a Diesel, the VW instructions say to (first to lock everything up) then *loosen the camshaft nut* (Then put new timing belt, tension, tighten camshaft nut etc).� This camshaft nut re-setting seems to be for precisely setting the camshaft angle at TDC. (or is there another reason?)

If I remember right (and I may be wrong - it is a long time since), for the similar 70's and 80's 4cyl gas engines instructions were basically lock up cam, replace timing timing belt. No camshaft nut loosening and re-setting of cam timing.

Any reason a Diesel would be more sensitive to (very small variations in) cam timing? Anyone skipping the camshaft nut part?

Martin (and '82 Westy "Poppie")