1997 Jetta VR6 Camshaft Posistion sensor/timing problem

[bcbrown]

I just recently took my Jetta to a mechanic to get a water pump and thermostat changed because the car was overheating. They also changed the instrument cluster and ignition switch, which i heard was a common problem on these cars. When I got the car back the CEL was on. I took the car to have the ciodes read it came up with P0341 Camshaft Position sensor Cirtuict Range/Performance. I took the car back to the mechanic and they replaced the sensor but did not fix the problem. They told me that the timing was off, that the specs for the VR6 called for about 17 to 20 degrees and my jetta was at around 3 or 4. They also said that timing could not be changed and that their previous work on the car could not have caused the problems. They also had no clue as to what to really do. My jetta is a 1997 GLX VR6 with about 125000 miles on it. Could they have caused the timing to be off by changing the water pump and thermostat? Should I find a new mechanic? How can I adjust the timing or do I have tear into the engine and replace the timing chain and tensioners? Thanks for the help!!

[veedubmechanic]

it can be a problem with the wires as the cam sensor wires are right next to the thermostat housing. Check for frayed or cracked wires next to the coil pack thermostat housing area. they tend to break there alot.

[bcbrown]

Thanks for the reply. I could seem to find any problems with the wiring there. Any more ideas or could I not be looking in the right place? Thanks.

Ben