Decoding the 1996 OBD2 2.0 ABA VW Engine: Horsepower, Specs, and More

For Volkswagen enthusiasts and mechanics alike, the 2.0 ABA engine is a name that resonates with reliability and straightforward engineering. Especially when discussing models from the mid-1990s, the 1996 OBD2 version of this engine stands out. Whether you’re maintaining a classic VW, planning modifications, or simply curious about its specifications, understanding the nuances of the 1996 OBD2 2.0 ABA VW engine, including its horsepower, is essential. This article dives deep into the details, providing a comprehensive overview of this robust power plant.

2.0 ABA Engine: General Overview and Performance

The 2.0 liter ABA engine, a 4-cylinder, 8-valve SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) marvel, was a workhorse for Volkswagen in the 1990s. Displacing 1984 cc (121.071 cubic inches), this engine, identified by the engine code ABA, delivered a practical blend of performance and fuel efficiency. Crucially for our keyword focus, the 1996 Obd2 2.0 Aba Vw Engine Horsepower is officially rated at 115 bhp (brake horsepower), which translates to 116.6 PS or 85.8 kW. This power peaks at 5400 rpm, providing a usable power band for everyday driving.

Torque figures are equally important for real-world performance, and the ABA engine delivers a respectable 122 ft/lbs of torque, peaking at 3200 rpm. This torque characteristic ensures good responsiveness even at lower engine speeds, making it suitable for city driving and highway cruising.

Here’s a quick summary of the general specifications for the 2.0 ABA engine (with a 5-speed manual transmission):

• Engine Code: ABA
• Displacement: 2.0L (1984 cc)
• Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder (I4)
• Valvetrain: SOHC 8V
• Fuel System: Fuel Injected
• Horsepower: 115 bhp (116.6 PS, 85.8 kW)
• Peak Horsepower RPM: 5400 rpm
• Torque: 122 ft/lbs
• Peak Torque RPM: 3200 rpm
• 0-60 mph: 10.6 seconds
• Top Speed: 124 mph (200 km/h)
• Firing Order: 1-3-4-2
• Engine Idle Speed: 800-880 rpm (830-910 rpm with A/C)
• OBD Compliance: OBDI (1992-1995), OBDII (1996-1999.5)

It’s worth noting that the transition year of 1995 might see some models with OBDII components, but generally, 1996 onwards marks the definitive switch to OBD2 for the 2.0 ABA engine. Also, a detail often discussed among enthusiasts is the existence of “squirter” and “non-squirter” ABA blocks, referring to the presence of oil squirters for piston cooling. Identifying which block you have requires dropping the oil pan.

Internal Engine Components: Bottom End

The robustness of the 2.0 ABA engine is partly attributed to its well-engineered internal components. Let’s delve into the bottom end specifications:

Block and Crankshaft

• Block Height: 236mm
• Bore: 82.50 mm (3.25 in)
• Stroke: 92.80 mm (3.65 in)
• Bore/Stroke Ratio: 0.89 (undersquare design favoring torque)
• Compression Ratio: 10:1
• Compression Height (Pistons): 30.9mm

For the crankshaft, there are differences between OBDI and OBDII versions:

• OBDI Crankshaft: Steel forged, Short Nose with Crankshaft Trigger, Part Number: 053 105 101 K
• OBDII Crankshaft: Cast, Short Nose with Crankshaft Trigger

The forged steel crankshaft in the OBDI models is generally considered stronger, which is a point of interest for those considering engine modifications.

Connecting Rods and Pistons

• Connecting Rods: Forged, Part Number: 037 198 401 C, Rod Journal: 48mm, Rod Length: 159mm, Wrist Pin: 21mm
• Pistons: Cast, Part Number: 037 107 065 N / 037 107 065 M, Piston Dish: 14.61

It’s important to note that there are different piston shapes for ABA engines, particularly between OBDI and OBDII versions. These variations can influence compression and combustion characteristics.

Oil Pump

• Oil Pump Part Number: 027 115 105 B
• Oil Pump Type: 79mm
• Oil Pump Sprocket: 44T
• Oil Pump Gear Length: 36mm
• Oil Pump Bolt: 8x90mm
• Operating Oil Pressure: 29 psi minimum (@ 2000 RPM, oil temperature 176 degrees F)

Maintaining adequate oil pressure is crucial for engine longevity, and the ABA engine’s oil pump is designed to provide this under normal operating conditions.

Internal Engine Components: Top End

Moving to the top end, the cylinder head and valvetrain are key to the engine’s breathing and performance characteristics.

Cylinder Head and Camshaft

• Cylinder Head Part Numbers: OBDI 037 103 351 M / OBDII 037 103 351 N / California 037 103 351 P
• Head Type: Crossflow
• Head Gasket: 4-layer metal, Total thickness: 0.062″

OBDI and OBDII cylinder heads are interchangeable, offering some flexibility for engine builders.

• Camshaft Woodruff Key: N 012 708 2

Camshaft specifications differ slightly between OBDI and OBDII:

• OBDI Camshaft Part Number: 048 109 101 D

  • Duration @ .050″: 211°/212°
  • Valve Lift: .400″
  • Lobe Center: 113.5°

• OBDII Camshaft Part Number: 050 109 101 A

  • Duration @ .050″: 210°/210°
  • Valve Lift: .417″
  • Lobe Center: 110°

These camshaft differences, though subtle, contribute to the slightly different torque curves and overall engine character between OBDI and OBDII ABA engines.

Valves, Springs, and Retainers

• Intake Valve Part Numbers: 037 109 601 E / 078 109 601 E, Size: 39.5mm
• Exhaust Valve Part Numbers: 037 109 611 B / 048 109 611 B, Size: 33mm
• Valve Stem Diameter: 7mm

Valve springs also differ between OBDI and OBDII:

• OBDI Valve Springs: Dual rate, Part Number: 078 109 633 A, Max Lift: .450″

• OBDII Valve Springs: Single rate, Part Number: 078 109 623 c, Max Lift: .432″, Installed Height: 1.400″ (+/- .005″), Compressed Height: .945″ (+/- .005″)

• Valve Spring Keepers Part Number: 021 109 651

• OBDI Retainer Part Number: 021 109 641 c

• OBDII Retainer Part Number: 078 109 641 c

Exterior Engine Components: Fuel, Air, and Exhaust

The external components manage fuel delivery, air intake, and exhaust expulsion, all critical for engine performance.

Fuel System

• Fuel Injectors Bosch Part Number: 0-280-150-955

  • Type: Top mount
  • Flow Rate: 176 CC/Min, 126.6 Grams/Min, 16.75 lbs/hr
  • Pressure: 36.25 PSI
  • Impedance: High 12-16Ω

• Fuel Rail Part Number: 06A 133 317 R

  • Inlet: Passenger side

Intake and Throttle Body

• Throttle Body Bore: 2.4″
• Throttle Plate Diameter: 2.22″

OBDI and OBDII throttle bodies differ in their idle control mechanisms. OBDI uses a separate Idle Stabilization Valve (ISV) and dashpot, while OBDII integrates the throttle position switch, eliminating the ISV and dashpot.

• Intake Manifold:

  • OBDI Lower Intake Manifold Part Number: 037 133 206 C

    • Runner Length: 6.2″
    • Port Inside Diameter: 32.5mm (head side), 34.5mm (upper manifold side)
    • Single Runner Volume: 150cc

  • OBDI Upper Intake Manifold Part Number: 037 133 201 AQ

  • OBDII Lower Intake Manifold Part Number: 037 133 206 C (same as OBDI)

    • Runner Length: 6.2″
    • Port Inside Diameter: 32.5mm (head side), 34.5mm (upper manifold side)
    • Single Runner Volume: 150cc

  • OBDII Upper Intake Manifold Part Number: 037 133 203 T

    • Port Inside Diameter: 34.25mm (lower manifold side)
    • Runner Length: 3.875″
    • Plenum Volume: 1.8L
    • Features vanes in runners.

Exhaust System

• Exhaust Manifold: Typically 2-piece, 4-2-1 design. Some 1995 models might have OBDII exhaust manifolds.

  • OBDI Part Numbers: 037 253 031 AP (Early Years, Non-Emissions), 037 253 031 AL (Mid Years, and California), 037 253 031 BP (Late years and all Canada)
  • OBDII Part Numbers: 037 253 031 L, 037 253 031 cc (California)
  • Collector Diameter: 2.25in
  • Exhaust Manifold Stud: 8X47mm

MAF Sensor and Other Components

• MAF Sensor VW Part Number: 037-906-461-A, Bosch Part Number: 0-280-217-103
  • Housing Size: 2.75″
• Camshaft Sprocket Part Number: 049 109 111 c
• Spark Plugs Gap: .028″ (check VW spec for confirmation)
• Spark Plug Wire Size: 7mm
• Thermostat Part Number: 044 121 133
  • Opening Temp: 185°F
  • Fully Open Temp: 221°F
• Electric Cooling Fans Part Numbers: 1H0 959 455 (no AC), 1HM 959 455 C (with AC), 165 959 455 L (either)
  • Fan Size: 305mm (first two PNs), 280mm (last PN)
  • Stage 1 On: 198°F – 207°F, Off: 183°F – 196°F
  • Stage 2 On: 210°F – 221°F, Off: 196°F – 208°F
  • Stage 3 On: 230°F – 239°F, Off: 221°F – 230°F (certain models)
• Alternator Part Numbers (Valeo): 028 903 025 P / 037 903 023 G (+a/c), (Bosch): 028 903 025 P / 028 903 025 Q (+a/c)
  • Pulley Diameter: 49mm (1.929 in)
  • Voltage: 12V, Negative ground
  • Amperage: 90A
• Radiator Dimensions: 675mm x 675mm x 322mm
• Expansion Tank Cap Opening Pressure: 19-23 psi
• Distributor Part Number: 037 905 237 BX / 037 905 205 T
  • Type: Breakerless
  • Firing Order: 1-3-4-2
  • Rotation: Clockwise
• Ignition System: Bosch Motronic M5.9 (1996-1999)
• Coil Resistances: Primary: 0.5Ω to 0.7Ω, Secondary: 2 kΩ to 4 kΩ
• Water Pump Part Number: 037 121 005 C (housing with impeller), 037 121 010 C (water pump only)
• PCV Valve Part Numbers: 037 129 101 H / 037 129 101 R
• Vacuum Brake Booster Part Numbers: 1H1 612 107 C (w/out ABS) / 1H1 612 107 D (w/ ABS)
• Master Cylinder Part Numbers: 357 611 019 B (w/out ABS) / 1H1 698 019 B (w/ ABS)
• A/C Compressor Part Number: 1H0 820 803 D
  • High Side Pressure: 205.0 Psi
  • Low Side Pressure: 17.0 Psi

Fluids and Capacities

Proper fluid maintenance is essential for the longevity and performance of any engine. Here are the recommended fluids and capacities for the 2.0 ABA engine:

• Oil:
  • Type: API grade SH or SH/CD multi-grade
  • Viscosity: 5w40 or 10w40 (temperature dependent)
  • Maximum Capacity (including filter): 4.2 Quarts
• Fuel:
  • Type: Gasoline
  • Octane: All standard octanes acceptable
  • Pressure (regulated): 36 psi
  • Maximum Capacity: 14.5 gallons
• Coolant:
  • Type: 50/50 mixture of water and coolant (G11 or G12, avoid mixing colors)
  • OBDI Maximum Capacity: 5.8 Quarts
  • OBDII Maximum Capacity: 6.1 Quarts
• Automatic Transmission Fluid:
  • Type (1994 and earlier): DEXRON II
  • Type (1995 and later): VW transmission fluid ONLY (G 052 162 A1 or G 052 162 A2)
  • Maximum Capacity: 3.2 Quarts
• Brake Fluid:
  • Type: DOT 4
• Power Steering Fluid:
  • Type: VW PS fluid (G002000 or G002012) or equivalent
  • Capacity: 1.6 Quarts
• Air Conditioning:
  • Oil Type: r134
  • Maximum Fluid Capacity: 28 oz of R134a – 3.9 oz (total) of PAG based oil

Transmission Options

The 2.0 ABA engine was typically paired with either a 5-speed manual or an automatic transmission.

5-Speed Manual Transmission (020)

• Transmission Codes: DFQ, CHE, or AMC
• Main Shaft: 24mm (before June 1st, 1997), 22mm (after June 1st, 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

Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Types: CLK, CFH, CFF
• Number of Gears: 4

Fuse Box and Relays

Understanding the fuse box and relay layout is crucial for diagnosing electrical issues.

• Location: Drivers side, under dash, above clutch pedal

(Diagram of Fuse Box/Relays as described in original text would be beneficial here, but cannot be rendered in pure markdown without image)

• Relay Assignments (Based on Original Text):
  1. Air conditioning system
  2. Rear wiper/washer
  3. Fuel injection/ignition system
  4. Load reduction
  5. Not used
  6. Emergency flasher
  7. Not used
  8. Windshield wiper/washer
  9. Seat belt warning system/control unit
  10. Foglights
  11. Horn
  12. Fuel pump
  13. Heated oxygen sensor control module (o2 sensor)
  14. Park/Neutral position
      15-24. Optional equipment

Torque Specifications

Proper torque is critical when working on engine components. Here are key torque specs for the 2.0 ABA engine:

• Cylinder Head Bolts:
  • Stage 1: 30 ft/lb
  • Stage 2: 44 ft/lb
  • Stage 3: Additional 90 Degree turn
  • Stage 4: Additional 90 Degree turn
• Air temperature sensor: 84 in-lbs
• Alternator mounting bolts: 18 ft-lbs
• Camshaft bearing cap nuts/bolts: 15 ft-lbs
• Crankshaft main bearing cap bolts: 48 ft-lbs
• Engine crossmember-to-body bolts: 37 ft-lbs
• Exhaust manifold bolts: M8 bolts = 18 ft-lbs ; m10 bolts = 30 ft-lbs
• Flywheel mounting bolts: 44 ft-lbs
• Fuel rail mounting bolts: 84 in-lbs
• Intermediate shaft flange bolts: 18 ft-lbs
• Intermediate shaft sprocket bolt: 59 ft-lbs
• Lock carrier-to chassis bolts: 17 ft-lbs
• Lock carrier to fender screws: 48 in-lbs
• Intake manifold to head (lower): 18 ft-lbs
• Intake manifold to lower intake (upper): 15 ft-lbs
• Lug Nuts (wheel bolts): 81 ft-lbs
• Oil cooler nut: 18 ft-lbs
• Oil pan drain plug: 22 ft-lbs
• Oil pump cover bolts: 84 in-lbs
• O2 sensor (heated oxygen sensor): 37 ft-lbs
• Piston oil jet/pressure relief valve: 19 ft-lbs
• Rod bearing cap bolts/nuts: 22 ft-lbs
• Spark plugs: 22 ft-lbs
• Starter mounting bolts: Lower 33 ft-lbs; Upper 44 ft-lbs; Stud 44 ft-lbs
• Throttle body through-bolts: m6 bolts = 84 in-lbs ; m8 bolts = 15 ft-lbs
• Timing belt tensioner bolt: 33 ft-lbs
• Transmission bell housing to engine: m10 bolts = 44 ft-lbs; m12 bolts = 59 ft-lbs

Conclusion

The 1996 OBD2 2.0 ABA VW engine, producing 115 horsepower, is more than just a specification on paper. It represents a blend of dependable engineering and practical performance that made it a popular choice for Volkswagen vehicles in the 90s. From its robust internal components to its manageable power output, the ABA engine continues to be a favorite among VW enthusiasts and mechanics. Understanding its specifications, maintenance needs, and performance characteristics ensures that these engines can continue to power vehicles for years to come. Whether you are working on a Golf, Jetta, or another VW model equipped with this engine, this detailed guide provides a valuable resource for your needs.

References

• Fuel injector list
• cams, valve springs, etc
• Jetta Tech / how to
• wiring diagram
• Intake manifold
• Head and valve info
• Chilton’s vehicle manual
• Haynes vehicle manual
• bahn brenner motorsports
• Black Forest Industries
• www.vagcat.com – online spare parts catalog
• more part numbers
• explosion views of most vw motors
• VW Vortex Members: tdogg74, ny_fam, Greg_J, StinkyMEMan, 94jetta~~, Sky-Fi, Kabinotar, JohnStamos, PoCoDUB (and other contributors mentioned in original post)