The 1.9-liter VW ABL 1.9 TD diesel engine was produced by the company from 1992 to 2003 and was installed in various versions of the popular Transporter minibus in the back of the T4. It is such power units as the ABL that have earned the Transporter a reputation as a workhorse.
EA086 family: JK, JP, JX, SB, 1X, 1Y, AAZ, ABL, AAC.
Specifications
| Production years | 1992-2003 |
| Displacement, cc | 1896 |
| Fuel system | prechambers |
| Power output, hp | 68 |
| Torque output, Nm | 140 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 79.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 95.5 |
| Compression ratio | 22.5 |
| Features | SOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | yes |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.8 |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Euro standards | EURO 1/2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for VW Transporter T4 1995) — city — highway — combined |
9.2 7.0 8.1 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~475 000 |
| Weight, kg | 155 |
The engine was installed on:
- Volkswagen Transporter T4 (7D) in 1992 – 2003.
Disadvantages of the VW ABL engine
- This power unit is afraid of overheating, the aluminum cylinder head cracks quickly;
- Another well-known diesel problem is fuel leaks through injection pump gaskets;
- The timing belt is designed for 60,000 km, if you miss a replacement, the valves will bend if it breaks;
- At long runs, the turbine often requires attention, it simply drives lubricant;
- The main disadvantage of these motors is their age and wear, respectively.
Frequently asked questions about the Volkswagen ABL
How much power does the Volkswagen ABL make?
The Volkswagen ABL develops 68 hp and 140 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Volkswagen ABL take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.8 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Volkswagen ABL have a timing belt or chain?
The Volkswagen ABL uses a timing belt.
Is the Volkswagen ABL turbocharged?
Yes, the Volkswagen ABL is turbocharged.
Does the Volkswagen ABL need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Volkswagen ABL has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Volkswagen ABL last?
The typical lifespan of the Volkswagen ABL is ~475 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Volkswagen ABL?
VW Transporter T4 1995: city 9.2, highway 7.0, combined 8.1 L/100 km.
What cars was the Volkswagen ABL installed on?
Volkswagen Transporter T4 (7D) in 1992 - 2003.
What are the common problems of the Volkswagen ABL?
This power unit is afraid of overheating, the aluminum cylinder head cracks quickly. Another well-known diesel problem is fuel leaks through injection pump gaskets. All known problems.





