The 2.0 liter ABA engine is a workhorse, known for its reliability and straightforward engineering. Found in Volkswagen models during the OBD2 era, particularly in 1996, this engine is a favorite for those seeking robust performance and ease of maintenance. This comprehensive guide dives into the specifics of the 96 OBD2 2.0 ABA VW engine, focusing on its horsepower, technical specifications, and everything a car enthusiast or mechanic needs to know.
Understanding the 2.0 ABA Engine: An Overview
The 2.0L ABA engine, a 1984 cc inline-four, is naturally aspirated and fuel-injected. It’s recognized by its engine code “ABA” and is an 8-valve SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) design. For the 1996 model year, this engine was equipped with OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics II) technology, marking a significant step in engine management and diagnostics.
Key Features of the 96 OBD2 2.0 ABA VW Engine:
- Engine Code: ABA
- Displacement: 2.0 Liters (1984 cc)
- Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder (I4)
- Valvetrain: SOHC 8V
- Fuel System: Fuel Injected
- OBD System: OBD2 (1996-1999.5 models)
Alt Text: Location of the ABA engine code stamped on a Volkswagen 2.0 liter engine block, used in 1996 OBD2 models.
Horsepower and Performance Metrics
The 96 OBD2 2.0 ABA VW engine is rated at 115 horsepower (116.6 PS or 85.8 kW). While not a high-performance powerhouse, this engine delivers dependable power suitable for daily driving and light performance applications.
Performance Figures:
- Horsepower: 115 bhp (85.8 kW) at 5400 rpm
- Torque: 122 lb-ft at 3200 rpm
- 0-60 mph: 10.6 seconds (with 5-speed manual transmission)
- Top Speed: 124 mph (200 km/h)
- Power-to-Weight Ratio: 104.83 bhp/ton
- Horsepower per Liter: 58.97
- Firing Order: 1-3-4-2
- Idle Speed: 800-880 rpm (830-910 rpm with A/C)
These figures highlight the engine’s focus on low-end torque, making it responsive and practical for everyday use.
Detailed Engine Specifications
For mechanics and enthusiasts looking to delve deeper, here are the detailed specifications of the 96 OBD2 2.0 ABA VW engine, covering internal components, measurements, and part numbers.
Bottom End Specifications
The bottom end of the ABA engine is robust, designed for durability and longevity.
- Block Height: 236mm
- Bore: 82.50 mm (3.25 in)
- Stroke: 92.80 mm (3.65 in)
- Bore/Stroke Ratio: 0.89
- Compression Ratio: 10:1
- Compression Height: 30.9mm
Connecting Rods:
- Part Number: 037 198 401 C
- Rod Journal: 48mm
- Type: Forged
- Length: 159mm
- Wrist Pin: 21mm
Pistons:
- Part Number: 037 107 065 N / 037 107 065 M
- Type: Cast
- Dish: 14.61
Crankshaft:
- Type: Cast
- Features: Short Nose with Crankshaft Trigger
Oil Pump:
- Part Number: 027 115 105 B
- Type: 79mm
- Sprocket: 44T
- Gear Length: 36mm
- Bolt: 8x90mm
- Operating Oil Pressure: 29 psi minimum (@ 2000 RPM, 176°F oil temp)
Alt Text: Diagram of a Volkswagen 2.0 ABA engine block showcasing the robust bottom end internal components including crankshaft and pistons.
Top End Specifications
The cylinder head and valvetrain are crucial for the engine’s breathing and performance characteristics.
- Cylinder Head Part Number: 037 103 351 N / California 037 103 351 P
- Head Type: Crossflow
- Head Gasket: 4-layer metal, 0.062″ total thickness
Camshaft (OBD2):
- Part Number: 050 109 101 A
- Duration @ .050″: 210°/210°
- Valve Lift: .417″
- Lobe Center: 110°
- Valve Timing: -5.8/35.8 – 34.2/-4.2
- Valve Overlap: -10°
- Intake Opens @ .050″: 7.7° BTDC
Valve Springs (OBD2):
- Part Number: 078 109 623 C
- Type: Single rate
- Max Lift: .432″
- Installed Height: 1.400″ (+/- .005″)
- Compressed Height: .945″ (+/- .005″)
Valves:
- Intake Part Numbers: 037 109 601 E / 078 109 601 E
- Exhaust Part Numbers: 037 109 611 B / 048 109 611 B
- Intake Diameter: 39.5mm
- Exhaust Diameter: 33mm
- Stem Diameter: 7mm
Valve Spring Keepers:
- Part Number: 021 109 651
Valve Spring Retainers (OBD2):
- Part Number: 078 109 641 C
Exterior Engine Components
External components are vital for the engine’s operation and integration within the vehicle.
Fuel Injectors:
- Bosch Part Number: 0-280-150-955
- Type: Top mount
- Flow Rate: 176 CC/Min, 126.6 Grams/Min, 16.75 lb/hr
- Pressure: 36.25 PSI
- Impedance: High 12-16Ω
Fuel Rail:
- Part Number: 06A 133 317 R
- Inlet Location: Passenger side
Throttle Body:
- Bore: 2.4″
- Throttle Plate: 2.22″
- OBD2 Feature: Integrated throttle position switch
Intake Manifold (OBD2):
- Lower Intake Part Number: 037 133 206 C
- Lower Runner Length: 6.2″
- Lower Port Diameter (Head Side): 32.5mm
- Lower Port Diameter (Upper Manifold Side): 34.5mm
- Lower Runner Volume: 150cc
- Upper Intake Part Number: 037 133 203 T
- Upper Port Diameter (Lower Manifold Side): 34.25mm
- Upper Runner Length: 3.875″
- Plenum Volume: 1.8L
Exhaust Manifold (OBD2):
- Part Numbers: 037 253 031 L ; 037 253 031 CC (California)
- Material: Cast
- Type: 2 piece; 4-2-1
- Collector Diameter: 2.25in
- Exhaust Manifold Stud: 8X47mm
MAF Sensor:
- VW Part Number: 037-906-461-A
- Bosch Part Number: 0-280-217-103
- Housing Size: 2.75″
Spark Plugs:
- Spark Plug Gap: .028″ (VW specification recommended)
Thermostat:
- Part Number: 044 121 133
- Opening Temperature: 185°F (85°C)
- Fully Open Temperature: 221°F (105°C)
Electric Cooling Fans:
- Part Number (No A/C): 1H0 959 455
- Part Number (With A/C): 1HM 959 455 C
- Fan Size: 305mm (for above PNs)
Alternator:
- Valeo Part Numbers: 028 903 025 P / 037 903 023 G (+A/C)
- Bosch Part Numbers: 028 903 025 P / 028 903 025 Q (+A/C)
- Voltage: 12V
- Amperage: 90A
Distributor:
- Part Number: 037 905 237 BX / 037 905 205 T
- Type: Breakerless
- Firing Order: 1-3-4-2
- Rotation: Clockwise
Ignition System (1996-1999 Bosch Motronic M5.9):
- Coil Primary Resistance: 0.5Ω to 0.7Ω
- Coil Secondary Resistance: 2 kΩ to 4 kΩ
Alt Text: Exploded view diagram of the 1996 OBD2 Volkswagen 2.0 ABA engine, illustrating the arrangement of various exterior components.
Fluids and Capacities
Proper maintenance fluids are essential for the longevity and performance of the 96 OBD2 2.0 ABA VW engine.
Oil:
- Type: API grade SH or SH/CD multi-grade
- Capacity (with filter): 4.2 Quarts
- Viscosity: 5w40 or 10w40 (temperature dependent)
Fuel:
- Type: Gasoline
- Octane: Standard octanes acceptable
- Pressure (regulated): 36 psi
- Maximum Capacity: 14.5 gallons
Coolant (OBD2):
- Type: 50/50 mixture of water and coolant
- Maximum Capacity: 6.1 Quarts
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
- Type (1995 and later): VW transmission fluid ONLY
- Maximum Capacity: 3.2 Quarts
- VW Part Number: G 052 162 A1 or G 052 162 A2
Power Steering Fluid:
- Recommended: VW PS fluid (or equivalent)
- Capacity: 1.6 Quarts
- VW Part Number: g002000 or G002012
Transmission Options
The 96 OBD2 2.0 ABA VW engine was commonly paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or an automatic transmission.
5-Speed Manual Transmission (020):
- Transmission Codes: DFQ, CHE, or AMC
- Main Shaft: 24mm (early), 22mm (late – after June 1, 1997)
- Speedometer Gear: 15T
- Gear Ratios: 1st: 3.455, 2nd: 1.94, 3rd: 1.28, 4th: 0.97, 5th: 0.80
- Final Drive: 3.67
Torque Specifications
Proper torque is crucial when working on the 96 OBD2 2.0 ABA VW engine. Here are essential torque specs:
Engine Torque Specs (ft/lbs unless otherwise noted):
- Air Temperature Sensor: 84 in-lbs
- Alternator Mounting Bolts: 18
- Camshaft Bearing Cap Nuts/Bolts: 15
- Crankshaft Main Bearing Cap Bolts: 48
- Engine Crossmember-to-Body Bolts: 37
- Exhaust Manifold Bolts: M8 bolts = 18 ; M10 bolts = 30
- Flywheel Mounting Bolts: 44
- Fuel Rail Mounting Bolts: 84 in-lbs
- Intake Manifold to Head (Lower): 18
- Intake Manifold to Lower Intake (Upper): 15
- Lug Nuts (Wheel Bolts): 81
- Oil Cooler Nut: 18
- Oil Pan Drain Plug: 22
- Oil Pump Cover Bolts: 84 in-lbs
- O2 Sensor (Heated Oxygen Sensor): 37
- Piston Oil Jet/Pressure Relief Valve: 19
- Rod Bearing Cap Bolts/Nuts : 22
- Spark Plugs: 22
- Starter Mounting Bolts: Lower 33 ; Upper 44 ; Stud 44
- Throttle Body Through-Bolts: M6 bolts = 84 in-lbs ; M8 bolts = 15 ft-lbs
- Timing Belt Tensioner Bolt: 33
- Transmission Bell Housing to Engine: M10 bolts = 44; M12 bolts = 59
Cylinder Head Bolt Torque Sequence:
- 30 ft/lb
- 44 ft/lb
- Additional 90 Degree turn
- Additional 90 Degree turn
Cylinder Head Bolt Tightening Order:
10.....4......2......6......8
7......5......1......3......9Conclusion
The 96 OBD2 2.0 ABA VW engine is a robust and well-engineered motor, delivering reliable 115 horsepower for a variety of Volkswagen models. Its straightforward design and OBD2 compliance make it a popular choice for both everyday drivers and automotive enthusiasts. Understanding its specifications and maintenance needs is key to ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. This guide provides a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to know more about this iconic Volkswagen engine.
References
- Fuel injector list: http://users.erols.com/srweiss/tableifc.htm
- Cams, valve springs, etc: http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?3875757-OBDI-vs-OBDII-ABA-engines
- Jetta Tech / how to: http://faculty.ccp.edu/faculty/dreed/Campingart/jettatech/
- Wiring diagram: http://a2resource.com/electrical/CE2.html
- Intake manifold: http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?4307303-MK4-intake-manifold-testing-and-porting-results&highlight=manifold
- Head and valve info: http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?2241056-ABA-head-valve-sizes&highlight=valve+aba
- Chilton’s vehicle manual: http://chilton.cengage.com/
- Haynes vehicle manual: http://www.haynes.com/
- Bahn brenner motorsports: http://www.bahnbrenner.com/
- Black Forest Industries: http://www.blackforestindustries.com
- www.vagcat.com – online spare parts catalog
- More part numbers: http://www.hdrogers.com/europarts.html
- Explosion views of most vw motors: http://www.wagenstad.com/index.php
