This cylinder head is designed for the early VW diesel engine family (pre-TDI), including the 1.6L and 1.9L indirect injection (IDI) engines. These engines are SOHC, 8-valve, and naturally aspirated or turbocharged, but not direct injection. Known for their simplicity and reliability, they were widely used in Volkswagen Group vehicles throughout the 1980s–2000s in Europe and global export markets.
2. Technical Specifications
Engine Codes
1Y, AAZ, ABL, AEF, 1X
Displacement
1.6L (AEF) / 1.9L (1Y, AAZ, ABL, 1X)
Valvetrain
SOHC, 8 valves (2 valves per cylinder)
Cylinder Head Type
Indirect Injection (pre-TDI)
Fuel Type
Diesel
Aspiration
NA (1Y, 1X, AEF) / Turbocharged (AAZ, ABL)
Cooling System
Water-cooled
Timing
Belt-driven camshaft
Cylinder Head Material
Cast Aluminum Alloy
3. Compatible Vehicle Applications
Make
Model
Years
Volkswagen
Golf Mk2 / Mk3, Jetta, Passat, Caddy
1989–1999
Seat
Ibiza, Cordoba, Toledo
1993–1999
Skoda
Felicia 1.9D
1995–2001
VW Transporter
T4 1.9D (AAZ/ABL)
1991–2003
4. OEM Part Numbers (Selection)
Part Number
Description
028103373A
Cylinder head (1Y, AAZ, 1X)
028103351E
Assembled head with valves
028103373F / D
Updated casting versions
030103351A
For AEF 1.6D
OEM numbers vary depending on turbo/non-turbo and EGR configuration.
5. Common Issues & Maintenance Notes
Common Problem
Cause
Solution
Cracked pre-combustion chamber
Overheating or injector failure
Replace prechambers or head
Head warping
Cooling system failure
Resurface or replace
Valve guide wear
High mileage
Replace guides/seals
Glow plug thread damage
Improper installation
Repair threads or replace head
6. Installation Tips
Use new stretch bolts and MLS head gasket
Verify pre-combustion chamber seating (especially on AAZ/1Y)
Ensure coolant system is properly flushed to prevent cracks
Use correct torque sequence and timing alignment
On turbo models (AAZ/ABL), check oil feed and return lines
7. Export & Market Demand
Region
Key Factors
Eastern Europe
Widespread use in older VW/Skoda – high rebuild demand
North Africa
Common in imported Golf/Caddy – affordable diesel head
Middle East
Utility vehicles in Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon
South America
Brazil, Argentina – used in rural/agricultural vehicles
Sub-Saharan Africa
High demand for durable, non-TDI diesel heads
8. Product Features
Precision CNC-machined valve seats and guides
Available as bare, semi-finished, or fully assembled
100% pressure and crack tested
Supports IDI injection nozzles and pre-combustion chambers
Compatible with original turbo manifolds and EGR setups