Luke's GTI Build Thread - Update June 2018

[lukemk5gti]

Sorry @Shoduchi it was actually yourself that advised me on this about 6 months ago and I picked up the mk6 ones there and then but only updated thread now so it wasn't fresh in my mind!

Changed now to reflect part number 1K8943021C

[Shoduchi]

Nice! I'm glad you're also happy with them.

[lukemk5gti]

So it has been 2 years almost to the day when I painted my brake calipers and they still look great after a quick wash. Great isn't perfect though and since my wheels are off being diamond cut I figure I'd spend the day getting them painted once more.

I started by sanding it all back down (middle of sanding):


Then the first couple coats of 650 degree red paint:


Now all 4 wheels are coated before lacquering:


Some 650 degree black paint for the retaining clips:


Around 5 coats of lacquer later and I have a very well protected high gloss caliper:



While I was waiting for each coat to dry I tackled the exhaust once more. Soaked in high strength cleaner for a while before adding a fine wire brush attachment to my drill and buffing with chrome polish. Results before I buffed to a reflective coating. Have to say they turned out better than my first attempt on page 1:

[bad devotions]

nice work on the exhaust tips. I ended up using various wet n dry sandpapers, brasso and a dremmel with a polishing kit on mine. I still have some stubborn stains though that won't shift. What cleaner did you use?

Also, what paint did you use on your calipers?

[lukemk5gti]

I used high strength alloy cleaner followed by chemical guys APC undiluted. Apply to a cloth and wrap it around the exhaust for a bit!

Paint was VHT 650degree in red for caliper and black for retaining pin http://www.vhtpaint.com/

[bad devotions]

thanks. i'll get shopping (again! damn this site!!)

[lukemk5gti]

Update 14/06/2016

I want to keep my MFD2 and 6 disc changer rather than update to an RNS510. Call me old fashioned 

I did however want to listen to audiobooks and the odd spotify so I decided to install an XCarLink.

Not a difficult task at all.

1) Remove top vents as per hazard switch on page 1.
2) Remove fascia gently making sure not to crack retaining clips.

3) Remove screws on front of stereo and remove stereo.

4) Clip new adapter into existing connection. It piggy backs in between existing connection.

5) Originally trailed my XCarLink below ash tray but decided it didn't look right so I ended up hiding it in the glovebox.

6) Secured it down with some double sided velcro strips.
6) Pulled the iPod connection through the air con hole in the glovebox.

7) Pulled the AUX through behind the plastic along the dash and centre piece and trailed it up next to my cupholder so it's close by.



The sound quality is spot on through AUX and I can use my cd changer still.

I'm only using the AUX connection so far with spotify whilst I wait for a 30pin to lightning connection to use my iPhone with the 5 different playlists.

[lukemk5gti]

Had my wheels refurbished. Inserts in dark grey with a diamond cut face. Although not shown in photo I also replaced the centre caps and valve caps!

Also replaced all 4 tyres with goodyear eagle F1 Assymetric 3. Can't differentiate much from my original Pirelli P-Zero setup to be honest.

[lukemk5gti]

Fitted my mk6 GTI gear knob today.

Pops out in a second and removed the crimp clip by just squeezing it a couple of times with a pliers. Didn't have to gouge or cut at it at all!

[bad devotions]

i was looking at the mk6 knobs but the ones i found were well expensive. When i put my mk7 one in i used a metal hose clamp that is normally used for plumbing. much better than the clamp thingy IMO - easier off/on. :) Looks nice the mk6 knob.

[lukemk5gti]

i was looking at the mk6 knobs but the ones i found were well expensive. When i put my mk7 one in i used a metal hose clamp that is normally used for plumbing. much better than the clamp thingy IMO - easier off/on. :) Looks nice the mk6 knob.

Link to photo of yours please? I was between minds and it was between edition 30 and mk6.

Finally found one at a relatively good price so I snapped it up!

[bad devotions]

i was looking at the mk6 knobs but the ones i found were well expensive. When i put my mk7 one in i used a metal hose clamp that is normally used for plumbing. much better than the clamp thingy IMO - easier off/on. :) Looks nice the mk6 knob.

Link to photo of yours please? I was between minds and it was between edition 30 and mk6.

Finally found one at a relatively good price so I snapped it up!

[jon_hill]

Great write ups lukemk5gti 

That mk7 gearknob looks ace!

[Trow81]

Looking good how did u fair with the VW dust caps as mine seized and Had to cut and replace valves


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[lukemk5gti]

Replaced my handbrake with a new one today.

Black leather and red stitching to match the new gearstick!