Leaking Fuel Accumulator

I have a fuel leak coming from the screw on the back of the fuel Accumulator on my 1990 mk1 Golf 1.8 GTI. I have read that it will be where the diaphragm inside the Accumulator has failed and fuel is passing by it and dripping out. I have looked around online and unfortunately it seems you can't just replace the diaphragm but you need to buy the whole Accumulator? The cheapest I can find is a similar looking part but a bit smaller that is on EBay ( http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/381655466087?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2648&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT ). I don't want to bypass the Accumulator and I don't want to fit a part that isn't right for the job. So my question is what is the difference between the original and smaller Accumulator and which one should I purchase? It seems like their are allot of cars that's use this type of looking Accumulator. It would be great if someone could shed some light on the matter. Any advice is appreciated. Thank you for reading, Joss  

they both work the same, its just the post-84 cabrio/scirocco accumulator is a lot smaller so it can fit when relocated next to the tank as space is tight

so you'll want to get the small one, as you'll probably find the full size unit wont fit in the space you have. if it does fit then happy days, it'll work just fine

Happy days. Thanks for the advice, much appreciated.

Let us know how you get on as that seems a good price for a new one… Still may to much money for a valve to hold the fuel pressure but that's life…

Right, sorry for the late reply but I have only just got round to fitting the new Accumulator. And it works a treat.

Thanks for the advice guys much appreciated. Happy driving.

Good to know it fits and works.

I found a good alternative source is the Ford Escort XR3i\RS Turbo ones (Bosch). These tend to be in much better condition (rust free) as they are mounted under the bonnet rather than under the car like the mk1. Fitted one to my mk1, virtually identical and works perfectly.

I do have a spare one if anyone is in need!

Alternatively, if anyone wants to replace the accumulator with a direct equivalent to the original; the Bosch Parts List recommends Part No. 0438170052 - conveniently this can also be picked up from the same company on eBay for only a few quid extra! Link is 0438170052-BOSCH-FUEL-ACCUMULATOR-K-JETRONIC-BRAND-NEW-GENUINE-PART | eBay.

This is the direct equivalent to the repro version listed on VW Heritage for £180.

Thanks Joss for the pointer - been looking for one of these for less than the cost of the car…! 

UPDATE:

These accumulators at the link above have just been reduced - now a bargain at £67.24 incl delivery. Perfect opportunity to replace the one on it's way out… 

guys that is quite a saving does anyone know if this will fit a 1.6 gti 1982 model  eg engine code . just concerned if the threads are different for the pipes ?

Check the Bosch Parts Finder here:
https://www.boschautoparts.com/en/auto

yes it will, same unit is used on the 1.6 and 1.8 kjet engines including mk2 golf 8v and 16v kjet cars.

the post-84 cab and sirocco are an exception as they use a smaller unit which is in a different position. if you could squeeze the bigger unit in it will still work though!

rubjonny said

yes it will, same unit is used on the 1.6 and 1.8 kjet engines including mk2 golf 8v and 16v kjet cars.

the post-84 cab and sirocco are an exception as they use a smaller unit which is in a different position. if you could squeeze the bigger unit in it will still work though!

Jonny do you happen to have a picture of where the accumulator is located on a mk1 cabriolet 1990

I have bought a new fuel pump and the correct smaller accumulator for it but  can't see where it actually lives! Before i take it all apart it would be good to know what to expect

One seven one said

rubjonny said

yes it will, same unit is used on the 1.6 and 1.8 kjet engines including mk2 golf 8v and 16v kjet cars.

the post-84 cab and sirocco are an exception as they use a smaller unit which is in a different position. if you could squeeze the bigger unit in it will still work though!

Jonny do you happen to have a picture of where the accumulator is located on a mk1 cabriolet 1990

I have bought a new fuel pump and the correct smaller accumulator for it but  can't see where it actually lives! Before i take it all apart it would be good to know what to expect

Paceman should have a spare one mate

Sent from my SM-G960F using Tapatalk