I've got a Bosch VP20/37 on my tin top (E36 BMW 325TDS), which is a rotary distributer type of pump (i.e. pre common rail). They are a known problem area on my car and cost a small fortune to replace - getting on for £1k at an independent specialist and twice that at a main stealer.

I'm not seeing any specific symptoms of a problem yet but I want to find out a bit more about what I can do if and when it happens.

Has anyone serviced one of these types of pumps, or done a DIY replacement? Which components tend to wear and cause problems? Any other tips? Just looking for any info out there really.

[Edited on 27/1/08 by AdamR]

I have an octavia tdi 90, and absoutely swear by Millers diesel power supplement - this recovered it from the point of a knackered pump (albeit at x20 dossage) - 7000 miles later and it's still ok, in terms of repair I think it's a case of off to the diesel injection specialist and open your wallet.

From what I learnt when the above happened most garages won't touch them simply because of the precision of setting the timing up.

Hope this helps.

I had to repair my saabs pump in the summer as Bosch kindly include the ECU in the pump saab wanted £1860 to just supply the pump. Eventually got an independantly refurbished punp for 1300 fitted Even then I was told I was lucky as the Audi 3ltr dieeels are £2600 for the pump.

Also the guarantee on the independant was no shorter than that from the main agent so what exactly are they charging for?