MK5 Golf GTI

All Things Mk5 => How to Guides / Troubleshooting => Topic started by: Pesky jones on February 09, 2016, 12:31:32 pm

Title: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Pesky jones on February 09, 2016, 12:31:32 pm
Hi

Just wanted a step by step on replacing springs all round on my mk5 DSG. I have eibach sport lines – thanks to another forum member! I’m pretty sure ill replace the top mounts and bearings at the same time with OEM.

I’ve had a little search and gained some information on swapping springs, but what would be perfect is if someone who has done the same before would be able to give me a step by step.

I’ve heard the rears are a lot simpler then the fronts. So if you want to go into detail, do so on info on the front!

Thanks
Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Patrick2691 on February 09, 2016, 01:12:04 pm
I'm pretty sure if you Google it there's a pictoral guide on a other forum

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Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Patrick2691 on February 09, 2016, 01:13:41 pm
http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?5436532-Rockerdan-s-Build-Mod-DIY-Thread!!!&p=77209201&viewfull=1#post77209201

This is for the mk6 but probably very similar

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Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Pesky jones on February 09, 2016, 01:42:27 pm
Thanks Patrick, appreciate that

I just read through this guide, which seems like it may be accurate for my car.

http://www.swankmonkey.com/vw/jetta/2006/suspension/ (http://www.swankmonkey.com/vw/jetta/2006/suspension/)

I also notice they mention cutting down the bump stops, will I need to do this?

If anyone has anything to add, please do!
Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Pesky jones on February 09, 2016, 02:19:42 pm
The text in that guide looks really good, and there a fair few pictures which I can't see! Can you see it on yours @Patrick2691 (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=14975) ? ive tried on two different devices and browsers...
Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: shail on February 09, 2016, 02:30:09 pm
Have a look here:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/Volkswagen_Golf_GTI_Mk_V/VW_GTI_Mark_V_Tech.htm

Many many guides on the Mk5.  Under 'Suspension' you have Replacing front struts guide, and also a replace rear springs guide.
Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Pesky jones on February 09, 2016, 04:24:01 pm
Thanks! That looks really good – pelican are quite good aren’t they?!

After speaking to VW and finding out top mounts and bearings for both sides coming to over 100£ (!) then I think I will inspect the top mounts at the time and probably reuse them. I am however picking up 2No. driveshaft hub bolts and 2No. lower strut pinch bolts as they are stretch bolts and will definitely need replacing
Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Pesky jones on February 12, 2016, 10:27:13 am
Few questions before I tackle this tomorrow.

1) when I have the strut out, do I need a 21mm socket with a hole through the centre in order to hold the centre bolt that the nut is threaded on to still? Will it just spin if I just try and undo it without the allen key? And does this socket have to be deep, or will a normal one be ok?

2) Is it worth taking the hub nut out before I begin, as it will be better to loosen it with the wheels still attached. I've heard its a good idea as you will get more room to pull the strut out of the lower pinch?

3) Any general tips or advice from anyone?

Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Pesky jones on February 13, 2016, 04:52:52 pm
anyone know where to get the vw spreader tool?
Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: doylebros on February 13, 2016, 06:52:13 pm
anyone know where to get the vw spreader tool?

I've got 1/2 " drive torx bit ground to shape and that works fine - just an option if your stuck.
Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Pesky jones on February 13, 2016, 08:24:53 pm
Tried using a 7mm allen key but it was just a tad too big to get in, and the 6mm slightly too small. Think im just going to get the proper tool too give me the best chance.
Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: doylebros on February 13, 2016, 08:29:55 pm
I've got a proper one in my toolbox but my modded one is the best - although I've had to use a chisel a couple of times cause certain jobs need an element of brut force. :happy2:
Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Pesky jones on February 14, 2016, 11:02:36 am
Tried using a bolster, screwdriver but I couldnt get it to budge. 110k probably never been changed. Plus I used penetrating oil. Did you get the proper tool from vw @doylebros (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=6153) ?

Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: doylebros on February 14, 2016, 11:10:36 am
Tried using a bolster, screwdriver but I couldnt get it to budge. 110k probably never been changed. Plus I used penetrating oil. Did you get the proper tool from vw @doylebros (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=6153) ?
Tool bought VW Pullman - wasn't more than a tenner but don't rate it  - like I said some take brute force - just have a break and go back to it - it will give although you may have to up the weight of the hammer.
Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Pesky jones on February 14, 2016, 02:46:08 pm
@doylebros (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=6153) May sound funny but where are you applying the brute force? I've heard good things about the vw tool, so think I'm going to give that a go tbh.

Also, did you undo the three wishbone bolts first and pull the hub of the driveshaft, and THEN undo the m16 bolt and try prise open the clamp?
Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Pesky jones on February 16, 2016, 11:37:08 am
I think my options are

VW spreader tool (some have said that their own tools are better for the job)
1/4” drive with socket (might be too small, the 6mm allen key just span in the gap, 1/4” is only 6.35mm)
Grind down an 10mm allen key and use in socket (worried that the 10mm spread will be too much and might crack casting?)

Any advice?
Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Pesky jones on February 18, 2016, 08:47:50 am
I've ordered two tools from sealer. one is 7mm x 5mm and the other 8.5mm x 5mm so il try the smaller first, then the larger.
Title: Re: Replacing springs guide
Post by: Pesky jones on February 20, 2016, 08:20:22 pm
So, after a very long day ive replaced the two front springs

Driver side was fine

Pasenger side there was some problems. Main one being me cross threading one of the three top mount nuts. Ive replaced it with an almost identical nut and bolt, the only differencr being the original top mount nut is recessed into the top mount, mine isnt. Dont think its a massive problem?

Also, the m6 bit for the sway bar rounded off so I had to go halfords to get a new one.