T4 Cylinder Head - 1996-03 - 1.9 Turbo Diesel (ABL)

This brand new, complete cylinder head is a ready-to-install replacement for Volkswagen Transporter T4 models fitted with the 1.9 Turbo Diesel ABL engine from engine number ABL 076001 onwards (January 1996 to June 2003). Supplied fully assembled with valves, valve springs, camshaft, and hydraulic lifters, it eliminates the need for parts transfer or time-consuming rebuild work.

The cylinder head is a critical engine component that seals the combustion chambers, houses the valves and camshaft, and manages airflow, fuel combustion, lubrication, and coolant flow. On ABL engines, wear, overheating, or head gasket failure can lead to poor starting, loss of power, oil/coolant mixing, or excessive smoke. Replacing the head with a complete new assembly restores correct valve timing, compression, and thermal control—bringing the engine back to smooth, reliable operation.

Manufactured as new production (not reconditioned), this head is sold outright with no exchange required, making it a hassle-free solution for workshops and DIY installers alike. Designed specifically for hydraulic lifter applications, it matches the later ABL specification with the correct oiling and coolant passages.

What’s included

• Fully assembled cylinder head

• Valves (8 total) with valve springs installed

• Camshaft fitted and timed-ready

• Hydraulic lifters installed

Key design & specification details

• Engine type: 1.9 Turbo Diesel ABL

• Valve stems: 7 mm

• Water passage: 8 mm water hole beside oil pressure regulator

• Lubrication: 3 mm oil feed holes

• Rocker cover fixing: 2 holes

• Cylinders: 4

• Pistons: 79.5 mm

• Valves: 8-valve configuration

• Lifter type: Hydraulic

How it works

The camshaft (driven by the timing belt) actuates the valves via hydraulic lifters, precisely controlling intake and exhaust events. Hydraulic lifters automatically maintain valve clearance using engine oil pressure, reducing noise and maintenance. Correct coolant and oil routing within the head regulates temperature and lubrication, ensuring long-term durability under turbo diesel loads.

Fitting notes & recommended associated parts

• New head gasket and head bolt set are essential (stretch bolts must not be reused)

• Check timing belt, tensioner, and water pump while access is available

• Verify injector condition and sealing washers

• Prime oil system and follow correct torque and angle sequence on installation

• Initial oil and filter change recommended after first heat cycle

Applications

• VW Transporter T4: 1996–2003

• Engine codes: ABL (from ABL 076001 onwards)

• Fuel type: 1.9 Turbo Diesel