What is the correct torque for the oil strainer cover nut (bolt)? It seams I remember someone saying that the Haynes book is incorrect.

I tend to believe the 9.4 ftlb indicated in my Haynes. Don't go ape shit on that thing. I once bought an engine from some mouth breathin' knuckle-dragger who managed to tear off a chunk of the cam bearing saddle.

Though that seems awful low, it is correct.

VW decided to attach that panel to the main bearing saddle, and it will distort if too much torque is applied.

9.4 any more and it will cause you other problems besides just stripping it according to a 914 mechanic shop near me.. I think will start to push on some other more imporant moving part..

9.4 or 9.6 is fine and factory it is not holding back a river or all the horsepower..

Tom Wilson book says 8. I've never had one leakat 8, but I have occasionally gone to 9 when 8 just doesn't "feel right".

More isn't better. Tighten it too much and you'll end up with "syndrome".
The plate does not need crazy tightening.

Tighten it too much and you'll be doing a full teardown.

If that was directed towards me, Jake, You'll notice i said 9 at the most. Thats still under the book value. If you were just making a statement, well, nevermind.

Thanks everyone 8 to 9 sounds good to me.
Bob