MK5 Golf GTI

All Things Mk5 => Members Rides => Topic started by: AJP on August 25, 2016, 08:39:18 pm

Title: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on August 25, 2016, 08:39:18 pm
I seem to have got to a point recently where I'm getting more grief and cost from the car than actual enjoyment. This is probably, in part, due to me getting used to the power, so I don't really get that buzz from it like I used to.

But there just seems to be so many annoying little things that added up are holding me back from enjoying it like I should. Things like the rattly interior, crap standard brakes, and so on. The problem at the minute is that my 'upgrades budget' is being eaten into by ongoing reliability issues. Some of you might have read the thread about the misfires. For example, I've got a pair of mk7 Clubsport calipers that have been sat in a box for weeks. I just can't take the upgrades any further when the engine isn't even running properly.

I've already invested a big chunk into the car, it's got an uprated clutch, Powervalve, Loba pump etc, and I'm not thinking about selling, because I do see its potential. I have plans for a k04 or hybrid k03, maybe coilovers, some decent speakers/amp/HU, the list goes on. But right now the thought of it just doesn't excite me.

So, I was just wondering if anyone else had been in a similar position, and what you did to get your love back for the car. Was it one mod in particular? And what can I do to make it a nicer place to sit? I'm thinking about the interior rattles. There's one somewhere under the steering wheel that bugs the hell out of me. Anyone had any luck in stripping things down and using that anti rattle tape?

I just need some inspiration from somewhere. Yeah, I've got the usual mod list of things done and things to do, but even then there's nothing that really stands out as missing from the car, just a number of little areas of improvement. So its hard for me to get inspired.

What would you do?
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: andy7ven on August 25, 2016, 08:48:57 pm
For me it's the interior rattles, I've had the car since 2009 and still can't solve them... The dash vent is still the worst, I've put sound deadening tape and foam everywhere in and around it and still it rattles!!! Surely someone when testing the MK5 flagged it up! Saying that it wasn't on the MK6 so someone must have realised they'd dropped a b*llock...!  :laugh:

The constant chattering sound from the boot/rear area, the rattling passenger seat when no one is in it, the door cards rattle... The list goes on!

The road noise in the cabin also, can't hear the radio for it...
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on August 25, 2016, 08:53:56 pm
For me it's the interior rattles, I've had the car since 2009 and still can't solve them... The dash vent is still the worst, I've put sound deadening tape and foam everywhere in and around it and still it rattles!!! Surely someone when testing the MK5 flagged it up! Saying that it wasn't on the MK6 so someone must have realised they'd dropped a b*llock...! 

The constant chattering sound from the boot/rear area, the rattling passenger seat when no one is in it, the door cards rattle... The list goes on!

The road noise in the cabin also, can't hear the radio for it...
Yeah I get all of that in mine. As well as the seat belt adjuster on the b-pillar constantly rattling, like a ticking noise... right in my ear.

All this puts me off the idea of coilovers. If it's like that now then I don't want to know how rough and creaky it'd be with firmer suspension.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: andy7ven on August 25, 2016, 09:01:47 pm
It's beautiful on fresh smooth tarmac, but god go on the old rough stuff and it's deafening... Rattle, Rattle, Chatter, Chatter ect...  :ashamed:

I suspect the armrest in the rear seat, but it could be the rear seat latch (I've put felt tape on the brackets and slammed them into place hard but no joy)

Dashboard diffuser, temperature dependent sometimes rattles like mad, other times not to bad... Think its actually the vents in it rattling more than the top piece...

Like you everytime something goes wrong I just think flog it, It's getting older and worth less and less, get something newer better built but I know I'd be making a mistake!!!  :laugh:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Norfolk Ollie on August 25, 2016, 09:38:48 pm
Hi AJP- it's funny, I've been disapointed with my standard car's performance, hence the imminent re-map, but what surprised me was when my wife drove us back from the coast a few weeks back. She was being quite sensible, until we got lost (my fault obviously), after which she was booting it left, right and centre- WOW how fast the car felt when I was in the passenger seat- it was bizarre! Seemed like a different beast.. the car felt different too!!  :signLOL:
I know it's a little thing but try riding shotgun and see it through fresh eyes maybe? Just my observations fella, cheers Ollie.  :happy2:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: markrtw on August 25, 2016, 09:50:18 pm
I feel for you guys. I'm lucky with my 2005. No rattles or noises from the interior. Uses almost no oil too. It's not perfect by any means, but at least it does not irritate me to distraction.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on August 25, 2016, 10:26:21 pm
I wouldn't say it feels slow. It's not a sense of speed it's lacking, just a bit of refinement to go with it. In fact it's at its best when it's being driven hard.

I would like it to look a bit more purposeful, which is why I'm considering coilovers. It's on H&R springs at the minute, which do a good job of getting rid of the arch gap, but it doesn't quite have that kind of aggression that a car with a proper stance has. However, with all these rattles, I'm hesitant to make things worse.

I wonder if there's any retrimmer or audio place that would take on a job of getting rid of interior rattles? It's probably not a million miles away from doing sound deadening.

It's got an R32 rear, ed30 front, BBS VZ, so it's halfway there, but still doesn't make me think 'wow' when I see it parked up. Ed30 rear lights and xenons are on the list.

Maybe I should put the k04 on hold, make do with Stage 2, and concentrate on a bit of a refresh. Bushes, interior rattles, a good audio install, coilovers. And finally get those bigger brakes on.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Rippers on September 01, 2016, 01:58:16 pm
Get a pic up or build thread AJP.  Let other see what you have achieved and once the complementary comments start rolling in you'll feel better about the car.

I know a guy who spent a fortune on re-trimming a mk4 R32, it looks amazing but he's now stressing about the finish on the paint and the exhaust note.

I think people like us are never happy and will always strive for perfection. Its just (as always) limited to funds..
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Kalpsn2000 on September 01, 2016, 03:19:17 pm
I feel for you guys. Luckily my 2007 hasn't developed any rattles...yet (touching lots of wood :smiley:) Rattles would really bug the hell out of me!

Does have its own issues though, the AC is busted so end up roasting for maybe 5 days a year :grin:

In terms of mods I've got the car how I want it now. Still enjoy driving it, still gets my heart pumping with the lead foot!

I'm actually more worried about letting it go now as not sure I can get something as fun for the same value (especially as in the past year I've got married and bought a house)!

Hi AJP- it's funny, I've been disapointed with my standard car's performance, hence the imminent re-map, but what surprised me was when my wife drove us back from the coast a few weeks back. She was being quite sensible, until we got lost (my fault obviously), after which she was booting it left, right and centre- WOW how fast the car felt when I was in the passenger seat- it was bizarre! Seemed like a different beast.. the car felt different too!!  :signLOL:
I know it's a little thing but try riding shotgun and see it through fresh eyes maybe? Just my observations fella, cheers Ollie.  :happy2:

It's funny you mention that Ollie as I have experienced the same when in the passenger seat...feels quicker :laugh:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on September 01, 2016, 08:11:48 pm
Get a pic up or build thread AJP.  Let other see what you have achieved and once the complementary comments start rolling in you'll feel better about the car.

I know a guy who spent a fortune on re-trimming a mk4 R32, it looks amazing but he's now stressing about the finish on the paint and the exhaust note.

I think people like us are never happy and will always strive for perfection. Its just (as always) limited to funds..
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fuploads.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F20160901%2F7f5a779c7e81df1cb6496353ed2fea02.jpg&hash=8a9975d17ea84616f2013ddfd0176a8b6078549a)

I'm quite happy with it aesthetically. I managed to get the wings sorted under warranty/goodwill earlier in the year, and the paintwork is pretty good in general. I'm happy with the rear; I'd always liked the R32 rear, so when I asked Nige to do the Powervalve group buy I knew which direction I was taking it.

Front end needs tidying up. Love the ed30 front but the grilles are a bit tired. Going to get them done in gloss black. And maybe get a US grille and a flush number plate.

Xenons and R32/ed30 rear lights are on the list.

Mechanically... well there's the ongoing misfire issue, but when it's having a good day it's brilliant to drive. 345lb/ft at 3200rpm just makes it so usable. Stage 2 at the min, but I've got plans for a k03 hybrid. Still on the standard brakes, so I have some mk7 GTI PP/Clubsport calipers ready:

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fuploads.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F20160901%2F6deff0cd5f2f35bcf1e134f13f084466.jpg&hash=2e819fd4bd78ee12ba9c460812a3755abb920290)

It's on H&R springs on standard shocks. The shocks will need replacing at some point, so I need to decide whether to go for something like the VWR shocks or some good coilovers. I'd love it another 20mm lower.

The interior needs a bit of attention. It's got a factory phone kit, which needs to go. It's such an ugly thing. Along with the rcd300 stereo. I'm hoping to do a good install with an Android head unit so I can display Torque Pro on a decent size screen (live parameters like boost, AFR, oil temperature etc) and hopefully achieve a decent sound quality with a processor, amp, good speakers and sound deadening.

It's a good spec. Sunroof, lux pack, winter pack etc.

So there's a little 'build post', rather than build thread
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: pudding on September 02, 2016, 02:57:51 pm
Good choice of beer  :smiley:

I feel the same way sometimes.   I never get bored of Stage 1 Edition 30 power though I have to say, and I've had some interesting tussles with cars I didn't expect to keep up with recently, such as a 335i, A45 AMG, Stage 2 Edition 30 DSG (mine's manual) etc......so that justifies the cost of the loba, helix, MK6 R intercooler, APR dp and mapping etc.

Things like replacing injectors, coils, plugs and decokes etc is just maintenance to me.  I love doing that sh*t and it's easy, it's just finding the time to do it these days.

Like you, it's the rattling and the chassis feeling it's age that gets me down, especially as it's a daily.

I did actually price up some leasing options I was that bored / fed up of it, but the maths didn't work for me.  I own my car and all the mods outright, nothing on it is on credit.  So to get 300+hp on a monthly scheme, plus a deposit down......nah, not worth it.  And how long before I get bored of a Golf R (or what ever) after the novelty has worn off....and I don't even own it??

Nah, stick to it mate.  Get the K04 on it, you'll love it even more!    Rattles are easy to fix, just need patience pinpointing and sorting them all.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on September 03, 2016, 09:33:55 am
Good choice of beer  :smiley:

I feel the same way sometimes.   I never get bored of Stage 1 Edition 30 power though I have to say, and I've had some interesting tussles with cars I didn't expect to keep up with recently, such as a 335i, A45 AMG, Stage 2 Edition 30 DSG (mine's manual) etc......so that justifies the cost of the loba, helix, MK6 R intercooler, APR dp and mapping etc.

Things like replacing injectors, coils, plugs and decokes etc is just maintenance to me.  I love doing that sh*t and it's easy, it's just finding the time to do it these days.

Like you, it's the rattling and the chassis feeling it's age that gets me down, especially as it's a daily.

I did actually price up some leasing options I was that bored / fed up of it, but the maths didn't work for me.  I own my car and all the mods outright, nothing on it is on credit.  So to get 300+hp on a monthly scheme, plus a deposit down......nah, not worth it.  And how long before I get bored of a Golf R (or what ever) after the novelty has worn off....and I don't even own it??

Nah, stick to it mate.  Get the K04 on it, you'll love it even more!    Rattles are easy to fix, just need patience pinpointing and sorting them all.
I've just nipped out to the shop and took the bypass home. I don't know if I'm imagining it but it always feels stronger when it's just up to temperature (90 deg coolant plus ten minutes) rather than run for a while. Maybe I need a better intercooler!

But yeah, it flies. I'm a long way from getting bored of it, but I'd like to iron out the 'idiosyncrasies'. You're right in what you're saying Pudding.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: lukemk5gti on September 03, 2016, 10:44:43 am
I just said this last night "feels stronger when getting up to temperature".

I figure it's because while its warming up the ecu limits power slightly so when you finally get around 80deg+ you then get a little bit more but then you're accustomed to it after about 10 more mins so it doesn't feel as fast there on.

I thought it was just in my head!
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on September 03, 2016, 11:07:21 am
I just said this last night "feels stronger when getting up to temperature".

I figure it's because while its warming up the ecu limits power slightly so when you finally get around 80deg+ you then get a little bit more but then you're accustomed to it after about 10 more mins so it doesn't feel as fast there on.

I thought it was just in my head!
Yeah there's definitely something going on, like it's 'fresh' power that then seems to dial back a bit? And there is that psychological aspect - after 20 minutes or so of giving it the beans you're desensitised to the power!

I reckon charge temps are the most likely factor though. A k03 at Stage 2 or 2+ is working its balls off. I'd imagine a k03 at 270bhp gets a fair bit warmer than a k04 at 300bhp for example.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: jhook661 on September 03, 2016, 02:36:02 pm
I just said this last night "feels stronger when getting up to temperature".

I figure it's because while its warming up the ecu limits power slightly so when you finally get around 80deg+ you then get a little bit more but then you're accustomed to it after about 10 more mins so it doesn't feel as fast there on.

I thought it was just in my head!
Yeah there's definitely something going on, like it's 'fresh' power that then seems to dial back a bit? And there is that psychological aspect - after 20 minutes or so of giving it the beans you're desensitised to the power!

I reckon charge temps are the most likely factor though. A k03 at Stage 2 or 2+ is working its balls off. I'd imagine a k03 at 270bhp gets a fair bit warmer than a k04 at 300bhp for example.
What intercooler gave you got? @AJP (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=11926)
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on September 03, 2016, 02:40:20 pm
I just said this last night "feels stronger when getting up to temperature".

I figure it's because while its warming up the ecu limits power slightly so when you finally get around 80deg+ you then get a little bit more but then you're accustomed to it after about 10 more mins so it doesn't feel as fast there on.

I thought it was just in my head!
Yeah there's definitely something going on, like it's 'fresh' power that then seems to dial back a bit? And there is that psychological aspect - after 20 minutes or so of giving it the beans you're desensitised to the power!

I reckon charge temps are the most likely factor though. A k03 at Stage 2 or 2+ is working its balls off. I'd imagine a k03 at 270bhp gets a fair bit warmer than a k04 at 300bhp for example.
What intercooler gave you got? @AJP (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=11926)
Standard at the minute mate. Will be going for an S3/mk6 R if I stay k03 or Peron if I go k04/k03 hybrid.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: jhook661 on September 03, 2016, 03:02:22 pm
Good plan @AJP (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=11926)   :happy2: that'll be why it feels sluggish when the intake temps rise the Ecu will pull back the timing making it feel slow
Also putting a k04 will help that slow feeling  :evilgrin:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Mark_DF05 on September 03, 2016, 03:03:57 pm
I'm with you on this, maybe not to the point where I'm considering selling but agree some things are starting to irritate me.

The rattling drives me insane and despite plenty of attempts to eliminate them they still return.

I always thought that the day I get a little tired of the car I'd just get it mapped to bring the excitement back but I've had it over 2 years now and still haven't got round to it due to various other things getting in the way, be it cosmetic or mechanical maintenance. It seems that every time I'm close something else needs doing which is more important. That's the same with every car though, they all need maintaining and we all know modifying isn't cheap. I've retrofitted genuine xenon headlights and upgraded the suspension which transformed the car but I think I might leave it at that for now.

Sometimes I think spending a bit of time giving it a good clean and taking for a nice drive can make you appreciate it more. I do think it's hard to find a replacement without spending a lot of money.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: unzippy on September 03, 2016, 04:48:00 pm
I just said this last night "feels stronger when getting up to temperature".

I figure it's because while its warming up the ecu limits power slightly so when you finally get around 80deg+ you then get a little bit more but then you're accustomed to it after about 10 more mins so it doesn't feel as fast there on.

I thought it was just in my head!

Wait until winter :laugh:

My G60s properly picked up in the winter, I can't wait to see what K04 at 300+bhp feels like!
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on September 03, 2016, 04:51:14 pm
I just said this last night "feels stronger when getting up to temperature".

I figure it's because while its warming up the ecu limits power slightly so when you finally get around 80deg+ you then get a little bit more but then you're accustomed to it after about 10 more mins so it doesn't feel as fast there on.

I thought it was just in my head!

Wait until winter

My G60s properly picked up in the winter, I can't wait to see what K04 at 300+bhp feels like!
This is true! Mine really enjoyed the cold air last winter. Only a couple of months to wait for the organic mini remap
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on September 03, 2016, 05:12:45 pm
I'm with you on this, maybe not to the point where I'm considering selling but agree some things are starting to irritate me.

The rattling drives me insane and despite plenty of attempts to eliminate them they still return.

I always thought that the day I get a little tired of the car I'd just get it mapped to bring the excitement back but I've had it over 2 years now and still haven't got round to it due to various other things getting in the way, be it cosmetic or mechanical maintenance. It seems that every time I'm close something else needs doing which is more important. That's the same with every car though, they all need maintaining and we all know modifying isn't cheap. I've retrofitted genuine xenon headlights and upgraded the suspension which transformed the car but I think I might leave it at that for now.

Sometimes I think spending a bit of time giving it a good clean and taking for a nice drive can make you appreciate it more. I do think it's hard to find a replacement without spending a lot of money.
That's exactly it. Having a 'to do list' and then all the budget going on repairs. I'm not giving up yet though!
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: r5gtt on September 03, 2016, 07:20:17 pm
After driving mine in the rain today I've now got so much hatred for this car  :sick: :doh:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: slix on September 03, 2016, 08:31:14 pm
After driving mine in the rain today I've now got so much hatred for this car  :sick: :doh:

Why? Wheel spin?  :laugh:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: r5gtt on September 03, 2016, 09:01:51 pm
After driving mine in the rain today I've now got so much hatred for this car  :sick: :doh:

Why? Wheel spin?  :laugh:
Yeah I can't even move off gently ffs ans when pressing on the gas in a higher gear it spins :doh:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Juliand on September 03, 2016, 11:22:48 pm
yeah, had a really shyte drive back from the midlands to south coast today...mpg was pap with rain and air con on /of to keep the windows clear- twats on the road on M40/ A34 / M3/ M27- really fed up today..... Not  a pleasant drive back at all..... maybe cos i went up and back in the same day,  and I'm knacked and irritable........some real idiots out there
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: r5gtt on September 03, 2016, 11:31:14 pm
yeah, had a really shyte drive back from the midlands to south coast today...mpg was pap with rain and air con on /of to keep the windows clear- twats on the road on M40/ A34 / M3/ M27- really fed up today..... Not  a pleasant drive back at all..... maybe cos i went up and back in the same day,  and I'm knacked and irritable........some real idiots out there
I had the same coming back from Kent to sh*t old east london lol so I hear you Juliand.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: dansmith180 on September 04, 2016, 02:13:53 am
In the last year mine has had.

New turbo
New downpipe
New HPFP
New intercooler
New clutch and DMF
New injectors
New front brake kit
New map

Drove it 3000 miles and a spark plug blew which lead to it not running right.

Then

New LPFP
New engine with a sh*t load of work done
New engine and gearbox mounts
New turbo core
Another new LPFP
Whole new exhaust
New map
New gearbox

And it still makes a sh*tty rattling noise when engaging gear and at low rpm (sometimes on idle), also something knocks at the front end sometimes, also a rattly flappy noise. I actually looked at Diesel Seat Leon's last weekend I was so fed up.

Then I took it for a spank and couldn't stop giggling like a twat, it's a stupid terrible car that drives me mad but I do love it.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on September 04, 2016, 11:35:16 am
In the last year mine has had.

New turbo
New downpipe
New HPFP
New intercooler
New clutch and DMF
New injectors
New front brake kit
New map

Drove it 3000 miles and a spark plug blew which lead to it not running right.

Then

New LPFP
New engine with a sh*t load of work done
New engine and gearbox mounts
New turbo core
Another new LPFP
Whole new exhaust
New map
New gearbox

And it still makes a sh*tty rattling noise when engaging gear and at low rpm (sometimes on idle), also something knocks at the front end sometimes, also a rattly flappy noise. I actually looked at Diesel Seat Leon's last weekend I was so fed up.

Then I took it for a spank and couldn't stop giggling like a twat, it's a stupid terrible car that drives me mad but I do love it.
Your last paragraph epitomises the whole mk5 GTI experience for me Dan. When it's good, it's brilliant fun. When it's bad, it's irritating.

Funny thing is, no amount of reviews from the likes of Evo ever scratched the surface anywhere near enough to hint at the long term running issues the majority of us experience. Reviewed on a good day, it really is close to that 5 star car it was touted as. The issues though - especially when we're turning the power up by 50bhp at the conservative end of the modding scale - start to rear their head years after motoring journalists have had their brief fun.

If my car was bone standard I'm sure right now I'd be considering selling. But I think you get to a point where you've 'invested' so much in it that you can't help feeling commited to seeing it through. It could be that once I find the cause of this misfire it remains healthy and reliable for months and years to come. Or I might just end up with some other annoyingly intermittent problem taking its place, and it's that worry - expecting something to go wrong - that takes the shine off the whole experience. The modding budget is no longer a modding budget, more a 'keeping it alive' budget.

On that note, it developed a new noise yesterday. Going slowly over a series of speed bumps (the horrible square ones) it's started groaning from the front. I don't know if it's a damper, bush, something to do with the undertray, or something I'll never diagnose. I'm only 30mm down, and nothing fouled as far as I know. So yeah, one more issue added to the list. How surprising.


Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Mr Scruff on October 08, 2016, 07:56:04 pm
Apologies for bumping an elderly thread but just joined and interested in reading some history...

I have a Porsche 996 in the garage as my fun car (until recently it was my daily); the one that no one likes and was poorly made.  You know what? It is too. My 2007 GTi rattles a million times less, it's much more usable and don't even get me started with the bills that a 996 can generate. The idle is lumpy, the clutch is a nightmare and the ride bone-jarring. Oh, and every time I take it out it breaks.

My point? We do these things 'cos we love them. Yes, they'll drive us potty (4 days in with the Golf and I'm already annoyed with some stuff...) but the alternative is that we all drive 1.2 KiaHyundaiWhatever boring white good cars. My wife suggested I get a 4 year old Ford Focus instead of the GTi but frankly I couldn't cope with the idea; sure they're a good car but just don't interest me.

Take a break. Try and borrow a Micra or some other low powered shopping trolley. For me each time I did it I realised I would continue to put up with the faults just to drive something that didn't send me to sleep! All cars have issues, the GTi holds its own as far as I'm concerned, despite the faults.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: r5gtt on October 09, 2016, 02:31:08 pm
In the last year mine has had.

New turbo
New downpipe
New HPFP
New intercooler
New clutch and DMF
New injectors
New front brake kit
New map

Drove it 3000 miles and a spark plug blew which lead to it not running right.

Then

New LPFP
New engine with a sh*t load of work done
New engine and gearbox mounts
New turbo core
Another new LPFP
Whole new exhaust
New map
New gearbox

And it still makes a sh*tty rattling noise when engaging gear and at low rpm (sometimes on idle), also something knocks at the front end sometimes, also a rattly flappy noise. I actually looked at Diesel Seat Leon's last weekend I was so fed up.

Then I took it for a spank and couldn't stop giggling like a twat, it's a stupid terrible car that drives me mad but I do love it.
That's some mega bad luck or something going on there mate  :surprised:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on October 09, 2016, 03:28:36 pm
Well without trying to tempt fate, I think I've cracked the misfire, and tomorrow I'll be heading off to Wales, with this road as part of my route:

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fuploads.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F20161009%2Fb315e1b500bac777c46f62c97c081ee5.jpg&hash=5d5782c6d86591ca78ceacff674d374b14280561)

I am enjoying the car a little more at the minute. I seem to have eliminated the most annoying of the rattles, by adjusting the steering wheel a bit. And it feels really strong now the temperatures have dropped. I'm nearly ready to fit the mk7 PP/Clubsport front brakes, and once that's done I can concentrate on upgrading a few bits here and there to make it a nicer place to sit and nicer to look at (head unit, speakers, ed30/R32 rear lights etc).

Fingers crossed the car performs as I hope tomorrow and on the way home. [touches wood]
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Lucastheone92 on October 09, 2016, 05:15:15 pm
I feel for you guys. I'm lucky with my 2005. No rattles or noises from the interior. Uses almost no oil too. It's not perfect by any means, but at least it does not irritate me to distraction.
Same here. There's a slight rattle from what I think is the vent in between the front seats but that's it really.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: fab5freddy on October 10, 2016, 06:51:19 am
Well without trying to tempt fate, I think I've cracked the misfire, and tomorrow I'll be heading off to Wales, with this road as part of my route:

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fuploads.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F20161009%2Fb315e1b500bac777c46f62c97c081ee5.jpg&hash=5d5782c6d86591ca78ceacff674d374b14280561)

I am enjoying the car a little more at the minute. I seem to have eliminated the most annoying of the rattles, by adjusting the steering wheel a bit. And it feels really strong now the temperatures have dropped. I'm nearly ready to fit the mk7 PP/Clubsport front brakes, and once that's done I can concentrate on upgrading a few bits here and there to make it a nicer place to sit and nicer to look at (head unit, speakers, ed30/R32 rear lights etc).

Fingers crossed the car performs as I hope tomorrow and on the way home. [touches wood]

@AJP (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=11926) so what was the cause of the misfire? Glad to hear it's sorted finally
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on October 10, 2016, 07:11:51 am
Thanks mate. I think (hope) it was a dodgy injector, like we discussed. Update to that thread here http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=108488.msg1056694.msg#1056694

It's been a couple of weeks now and seems spot on. I'll make a more confident judgement once I'm home midweek; it's getting 6 hours of varied driving each way (including those fun bits going over the hills).



Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 13, 2017, 08:30:21 pm
I thought I'd resurrect this thread of mine considering I'm now back in love with the GTI.

The misfires are now a thing of the past.

I've sorted the crappy RCD300. I've now got an RCD510 DAB (thanks @Pashka) and an MDI kit (thanks @Pudding) with an old ipod in the glove box. And the stone-age phone kit has gone.

I recently got a Ramair intake fitted (thanks @rashg60 and @RetroRaz) and I bloody love it! It's the normal bore one rather than oversize, and put simply, it works. There's definitely more power at higher revs. The thing I love about it though (and I think the reason why I'm now back in love with the car) is the noise. It's pure oldskool turbo spool, chatter, dump noise. It makes driving it hard much more of an occasion.

It's not perfect though - there are a couple of downsides. Firstly, if you're rolling around at low speed with no music on (ie mature/sensible mode) the intake is still rather audible. It's a bit like having Darth Vader in the glove box. Even with tiny throttle inputs, and slow release of the throttle, it's there to be heard, huffing and puffing away. However, crack open the driver's window or stick on some tunes at even a low volume, and you don't hear it. No issue.

Next problem is the dreaded 'goose honk' that some k03 cars get with an intake. It's definitely there, not massively, but it's there. I'd read loads on this before I even considered fitting an intake, so what I understand so far is that the noise is inherent in the k03 setup because of the DV position, and an aftermarket intake can amplify the honk, whereas the standard intake is unquestionably designed to mute the honk. [Good name for a band, that]

Anyway. I spoke to @Dan_FR about this, as he's had some success in adjusting the sections of pipework that make up his intake to eliminate the honk. So I did the same, but to no avail. At this point I've got a few options:

Go k04 (definitely cures it)

Relocate DV (90% confident it cures it)

Try a GFB DV+ in the normal k03 position (the jury's out)

I think I'll try option 2 first. Then I'll probably upgrade to a DV+ sometime soon; they're getting lots of good feedback from people worth listening to.

The honk isn't really bugging me as much as it might without the Powervalve screaming behind me (more on that in a bit) but it's still not perfect so it's still getting sorted.

If anyone has the parts for, or can offer any further advice on the DV relocation, give me a shout.

Back to the good bits then. As I mentioned, the seat-of-the-pants-ometer has detected maybe an extra 10 or so extra BHP over the top end of the revs. It definitely pulls harder up there. And I haven't detected the slightest loss of low down torque. Not one bit. Very happy with the power gains considering it's still on the map that was done with the OE cover on.

The best bit though... Between gears, at full chat, I get a BIG dump noise from it. More than I was expecting. I noticed after getting the Loba fitted a while ago that the exhaust now pops if I change up at about 5200RPM. Coupled with the big 'tishh' from the intake, it's simply glorious! Sounds so much different to how it did at a milder state of tune. It really gives me a buzz to drive now. Love it!

In other developments, it's going in next week to have a set of Vogtland coilovers fitted and a general check up of suspension bits. I won't be going silly-low. I've always wanted it to sit 15-20mm lower than it does on the H&R springs, so this will sort that. My dampers are tired too, so coilies made sense. Vogtland use KW dampers, so it'll be interesting to see how these feel.

There are a few cosmetic bits I'm going to sort before summer (gloss black grilles etc) and then it's decision time: S3 IC and tweak to 2+, or..... a change of turbo.

Time will tell

I suppose this is my build thread now, of sorts. I'll probably move it to the right section at some point!
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: shoaybmakda on April 14, 2017, 10:16:55 am
I have a k03 and have never had the honk noise - I fitted a revo intake (no DV+) and there was no honk but I had to get rid as it was just too loud for me.

Opted for a VWR intake and that was much better (this time with a DV+) and still no honk.

I guess I must just be lucky and shouldn't tempt fate!
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 14, 2017, 10:43:34 am
I have a k03 and have never had the honk noise - I fitted a revo intake (no DV+) and there was no honk but I had to get rid as it was just too loud for me.

Opted for a VWR intake and that was much better (this time with a DV+) and still no honk.

I guess I must just be lucky and shouldn't tempt fate!
Yeah, you got lucky!

Although it's worth noting that the honk becomes louder/more apparent the more boost you're running. I'm not far off maxing the turbo out so it kind of makes sense I'd hear something.

Are you stage 1? 2? Stock?

The VWR kit is well regarded anyway, I'd stick with that.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: shoaybmakda on April 14, 2017, 09:56:19 pm
I'm stock sort of - currently just have a milltek cat back and the VWR intake.

I was looking to go stage 1 but dunno if I should now if I get the honk!

Or you reckon I should be okay to go as I've got the DV+ fitted?
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 15, 2017, 06:42:06 am
I'm stock sort of - currently just have a milltek cat back and the VWR intake.

I was looking to go stage 1 but dunno if I should now if I get the honk!

Or you reckon I should be okay to go as I've got the DV+ fitted?
It's really hard to say. But there are a few things we do know:

Not all k03 cars get the honk.

There is a theory that a DV+ cures it, but I'm yet to read a thread where it is proven to be true in practice. It's just a theory.

DV relocation however, I've found threads detailing how this did specifically cure it.

More boost equals more honk.


Anyway, I'd be willing to bet that those k03 cars that are 'lucky' not to get the honk are the cars running stock or tame Stage 1 boost levels.

If you wanted my advice, I'd say don't hold back on the tuning. These cars come alive at 2/2+. However, you must be prepared to budget for 'reliability mods' along with the cost of maps, downpipes, fuel pumps etc. Count the DV relocation in with mods like an uprated clutch, bigger brakes etc. As in, mods needed to run higher power reliably, and in this case without it sounding like a tone deaf flute player is trapped under the bonnet.

I'm kind of learning as I go along with the DV relocation. It's not a big job as far as I can tell, for the likes of a decent specialist, if it's not something you fancied tackling yourself. Don't let it stop you tuning your car. Just be prepared for the honk if/when it comes along.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 15, 2017, 07:06:34 am
Right, as I've now assumed this as my build thread I might as well detail a few next steps.

Vogtland coilovers are going on midweek with new top mounts and bearings, along with some new front discs to replace the knackered Pagids. The 7R/PP/Clubsport conversion is doing a great job, apart from the discs!

Pretty sure it needs a new thermostat, so I'll get it in for that soon, along with a minor service.

I've noticed a few cosmetic bits I want to sort - a nice new chunk taken out of the offside rub strip thanks to some inconsiderate fool in a car park no doubt. Also my R32 exhaust valance - that I had smoothed and painted gloss black - has a big chip in it. I'll probably remove it, fill, smooth, wrap. Maybe carbon. We'll see. So that lot along with getting the front grilles sprayed gloss black, and maybe a black front VW badge, should freshen things up for the summer. Oh, and I've managed to kerb a wheel, to go along with the mystery damage to the other (tyre fitter I reckon). So they'll need a refurb.

I'm really happy with how it's running in terms of performance now. I'm in no rush to add any more power. I think if and when I do get to that point, it'll be a turbo upgrade rather than a little map tweak from 2 to 2+. I'm pretty much on 2+ hardware anyway (bar the intercooler) and the car seems content with that bit of headroom over the software. It's strong and consistent.

Fingers crossed on the coilovers. I'm not expecting a silky ride, but as long as it's not harsh and uncontrolled, and it gives me a little extra feel in the bends, I'll be happy. Plus (if I'm really honest) I'm looking forward to seeing how it looks 20mm or so lower than on the H&R springs!

That's about it for now. Will update the thread with pics as and when things happen
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: dansmith180 on April 15, 2017, 12:15:22 pm
Glad to hear you're back in love with it. Good feeling isn't it.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 15, 2017, 12:56:50 pm
Glad to hear you're back in love with it. Good feeling isn't it.
Thanks Dan, it certainly is. And considering I like to keep my cars as long-term projects, 5 years at least, that's a long time to be unhappy with it. So now I'm just looking forward to stepping things up a bit rather than thinking 'what now?!'

Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Shoduchi on April 15, 2017, 04:01:37 pm
Glad you love it again. Doing the DV relocation isn't hard. I had to do a partial relocation in my LHD BYD engine. A DV+ is a must have upgrade IMO.  :wink:

Hope you like the new suspension setup. I'll be waiting for the pictures of the coilovers fitted. I've heard wonders to the handling of a setup done with scales. :smiley:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 15, 2017, 04:20:06 pm
Glad you love it again. Doing the DV relocation isn't hard. I had to do a partial relocation in my LHD BYD engine. A DV+ is a must have upgrade IMO.  :wink:

Hope you like the new suspension setup. I'll be waiting for the pictures of the coilovers fitted. I've heard wonders to the handling of a setup done with scales. :smiley:
Thank you I'll definitely get some pics up once they're on.

I've read a few things recently about the DV+ needing a service once in a while. Is this something you've found? I always thought it was truly 'fit and forget'. I'm on a Rev G at the minute, and I really can't fault it. But so many of you really like the DV+, so I'm sure it's only a matter of time until I get one!

I suppose doing the relocation will make things like that much easier in the future anyway. As for that, I've got a plug/blank for the k03 on the way, and also a loom being made up next week, both courtesy of fellow forum members. So I'm slowly piecing it together.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Shoduchi on April 15, 2017, 04:28:36 pm
I haven't done anything to my DV+ since I've fitted it. Don't know when or if it'll need a clean.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Craig Stanley on April 15, 2017, 05:26:51 pm
Inspiring read as I am feeling exactly the same about mine. Really struggling with how I feel about the car at the mo.  Nothing really wrong now but the problems I've had in the past and recent are making me question whether to sell or not

Sent from my ZTE B2017G using Tapatalk

Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 15, 2017, 05:37:24 pm
Inspiring read as I am feeling exactly the same about mine. Really struggling with how I feel about the car at the mo.  Nothing really wrong now but the problems I've had in the past and recent are making me question whether to sell or not

Sent from my ZTE B2017G using Tapatalk
As unlikely as it sounds, you might be one mod away from getting your enjoyment back from it.

For me, as my earlier posts mention, fitting the intake has given the car the spark it was missing. Yeah, it's just a cone on a stick, but the change in sound and how it drives has made it that little bit more enjoyable.

Obviously it's easy to say that now my misfires are cured and it's all running as intended (touch wood). I can forgive the odd rattle when ultimately it's quick, cheap to run, and reliable.

Sometimes it's a case of writing up a list of the niggles, then just going at them. It's much nicer having a reliable base to mod, even though it's painful when your modding budget gets eaten up by boring repairs!

I've sold cars in the past that I wish I hadn't. I'm starting to get the vibes that this is becoming something I'd really regret losing.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Craig Stanley on April 15, 2017, 05:53:41 pm
Inspiring read as I am feeling exactly the same about mine. Really struggling with how I feel about the car at the mo.  Nothing really wrong now but the problems I've had in the past and recent are making me question whether to sell or not

Sent from my ZTE B2017G using Tapatalk
As unlikely as it sounds, you might be one mod away from getting your enjoyment back from it.

For me, as my earlier posts mention, fitting the intake has given the car the spark it was missing. Yeah, it's just a cone on a stick, but the change in sound and how it drives has made it that little bit more enjoyable.

Obviously it's easy to say that now my misfires are cured and it's all running as intended (touch wood). I can forgive the odd rattle when ultimately it's quick, cheap to run, and reliable.

Sometimes it's a case of writing up a list of the niggles, then just going at them. It's much nicer having a reliable base to mod, even though it's painful when your modding budget gets eaten up by boring repairs!

I've sold cars in the past that I wish I hadn't. I'm starting to get the vibes that this is becoming something I'd really regret losing.
Yeah I get it. I'm on the group buy for a Powervalve tbe and from what I've read it should put a grin back on. I looked at an ed30 yesterday 2009 87000m and although it drove really well it just didn't seem that much better than what I already have to warrant the extra money. My car now runs well but I have this constant love hate relationship with it. I've stressed less over relationships with women. Lol. Maybe I need my head looking at.

Sent from my ZTE B2017G using Tapatalk

Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 15, 2017, 05:57:44 pm
Inspiring read as I am feeling exactly the same about mine. Really struggling with how I feel about the car at the mo.  Nothing really wrong now but the problems I've had in the past and recent are making me question whether to sell or not

Sent from my ZTE B2017G using Tapatalk
As unlikely as it sounds, you might be one mod away from getting your enjoyment back from it.

For me, as my earlier posts mention, fitting the intake has given the car the spark it was missing. Yeah, it's just a cone on a stick, but the change in sound and how it drives has made it that little bit more enjoyable.

Obviously it's easy to say that now my misfires are cured and it's all running as intended (touch wood). I can forgive the odd rattle when ultimately it's quick, cheap to run, and reliable.

Sometimes it's a case of writing up a list of the niggles, then just going at them. It's much nicer having a reliable base to mod, even though it's painful when your modding budget gets eaten up by boring repairs!

I've sold cars in the past that I wish I hadn't. I'm starting to get the vibes that this is becoming something I'd really regret losing.
Yeah I get it. I'm on the group buy for a Powervalve tbe and from what I've read it should put a grin back on. I looked at an ed30 yesterday 2009 87000m and although it drove really well it just didn't seem that much better than what I already have to warrant the extra money. My car now runs well but I have this constant love hate relationship with it. I've stressed less over relationships with women. Lol. Maybe I need my head looking at.

Sent from my ZTE B2017G using Tapatalk
Haha, I almost used the 'woman analogy' myself, but thought nahh. So it's not just me then - cars really are like women. And using the same analogy, I'd rather drive an occasionally irritating 270bhp GTI than a bland and predictable eco box!

You'll love the Powervalve mate. Best mod I've done.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Craig Stanley on April 15, 2017, 06:02:31 pm
Inspiring read as I am feeling exactly the same about mine. Really struggling with how I feel about the car at the mo.  Nothing really wrong now but the problems I've had in the past and recent are making me question whether to sell or not

Sent from my ZTE B2017G using Tapatalk
As unlikely as it sounds, you might be one mod away from getting your enjoyment back from it.

For me, as my earlier posts mention, fitting the intake has given the car the spark it was missing. Yeah, it's just a cone on a stick, but the change in sound and how it drives has made it that little bit more enjoyable.

Obviously it's easy to say that now my misfires are cured and it's all running as intended (touch wood). I can forgive the odd rattle when ultimately it's quick, cheap to run, and reliable.

Sometimes it's a case of writing up a list of the niggles, then just going at them. It's much nicer having a reliable base to mod, even though it's painful when your modding budget gets eaten up by boring repairs!

I've sold cars in the past that I wish I hadn't. I'm starting to get the vibes that this is becoming something I'd really regret losing.
Yeah I get it. I'm on the group buy for a Powervalve tbe and from what I've read it should put a grin back on. I looked at an ed30 yesterday 2009 87000m and although it drove really well it just didn't seem that much better than what I already have to warrant the extra money. My car now runs well but I have this constant love hate relationship with it. I've stressed less over relationships with women. Lol. Maybe I need my head looking at.

Sent from my ZTE B2017G using Tapatalk
Haha, I almost used the 'woman analogy' myself, but thought nahh. So it's not just me then - cars really are like women. And using the same analogy, I'd rather drive an occasionally irritating 270bhp GTI than a bland and predictable eco box!

You'll love the Powervalve mate. Best mod I've done.
I think I'm having a midlife crisis but if this is as bad as it gets then I'm sure the missus will be ok with it. Lol. I read your posts and I aspire to get my car to the level your at and to where your going with it. Bbt hybrid here I come.

Sent from my ZTE B2017G using Tapatalk

Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Craig Stanley on April 15, 2017, 06:03:46 pm
Inspiring read as I am feeling exactly the same about mine. Really struggling with how I feel about the car at the mo.  Nothing really wrong now but the problems I've had in the past and recent are making me question whether to sell or not

Sent from my ZTE B2017G using Tapatalk
As unlikely as it sounds, you might be one mod away from getting your enjoyment back from it.

For me, as my earlier posts mention, fitting the intake has given the car the spark it was missing. Yeah, it's just a cone on a stick, but the change in sound and how it drives has made it that little bit more enjoyable.

Obviously it's easy to say that now my misfires are cured and it's all running as intended (touch wood). I can forgive the odd rattle when ultimately it's quick, cheap to run, and reliable.

Sometimes it's a case of writing up a list of the niggles, then just going at them. It's much nicer having a reliable base to mod, even though it's painful when your modding budget gets eaten up by boring repairs!

I've sold cars in the past that I wish I hadn't. I'm starting to get the vibes that this is becoming something I'd really regret losing.
Yeah I get it. I'm on the group buy for a Powervalve tbe and from what I've read it should put a grin back on. I looked at an ed30 yesterday 2009 87000m and although it drove really well it just didn't seem that much better than what I already have to warrant the extra money. My car now runs well but I have this constant love hate relationship with it. I've stressed less over relationships with women. Lol. Maybe I need my head looking at.

Sent from my ZTE B2017G using Tapatalk
Haha, I almost used the 'woman analogy' myself, but thought nahh. So it's not just me then - cars really are like women. And using the same analogy, I'd rather drive an occasionally irritating 270bhp GTI than a bland and predictable eco box!

You'll love the Powervalve mate. Best mod I've done.
I think I'm having a midlife crisis but if this is as bad as it gets then I'm sure the missus will be ok with it. Lol. I read your posts and I aspire to get my car to the level your at and to where your going with it. Bbt hybrid here I come.

Sent from my ZTE B2017G using Tapatalk
Dear Mr Bank Manager.

Sent from my ZTE B2017G using Tapatalk

Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 15, 2017, 06:10:25 pm
Thanks mate. It's always good to get positive comments about the car. Kind of assuring that I'm doing things right!

I missed out on a used Loba k03 hybrid last year. It was really well priced, and practically new. Gutted, as I'd just commited a chunk to the brake upgrade so couldn't justify more spending.

Keep your eyes out - they do sometimes come up for sale!
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 19, 2017, 07:26:04 pm
Vogtland coilovers fitted today. I'm going to put a few miles on it tomorrow, try and get things to settle, drop the front a little more, tweak the rear, then it's in for alignment on Friday.

No pics for now - it's not sitting how I want it yet. Next week I'll upload a few

First impressions... pretty much what I expected. A little firmer than H&R springs on standard dampers in general. Actually quite plush at low speeds - better than the springs and dampers - which I'd probably attribute to the fact the top mounts and dampers are brand new. At higher speed they firm up; the turn in is solid, heavier and much more precise. Less body roll, blah blah, you know the score.

They feel pretty damn close to the Weitecs I had on the mk4 (again a 'made by KW' kit) which were surprisingly supple. I'll be doing my best to look after the bodies as they're only zinc plated/galvanised/whatever.

It was a bit of a risk, as Vogtland isn't a massive name over here. There aren't a huge amount of forum reviews, even across the pond. But I did my homework, and I'm confident they're a good mid-range choice. Very happy.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: r5gtt on April 20, 2017, 01:34:39 am
I'll have to fit the H&R suspension kit and then let you how as you've used oem shocks which obviously won't be as good as you coilovers lol
I don't like coilovers mind  :signLOL: but as long as you're happy that's all that matters and reviewing them would be great for others who might think of changing to Vogtlands  :happy2:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 20, 2017, 12:34:46 pm
I know I said pics next week, but I got cracked on with a preliminary adjustment today.

Rears have 10mm left to go down, fronts about 15mm. If anything I'll leave the front and drop the rear a tiny bit, but I'll see if it settles any more and go from there.

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fuploads.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F20170420%2F7d25b5a72c4e82e0dc67876093e0393d.jpg&hash=991ad86511a01e9ce4ec3728dd9b808b8f7d8cce)

(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fuploads.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F20170420%2Fea4f744fc81cfb2c7627ab597f813e7c.jpg&hash=8acddc09efe988e9950f5aa68396f505a917d38a)

I'm really impressed with these. They feel like KWs. I'm pretty sure I was right in assuming my OEM shocks were goosed - it's actually a smoother drive at low speeds. I'm yet to really drive it with any 'enthusiasm' but so far - fingers crossed - there's no rubbing at all.

Result.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Paradox1 on April 20, 2017, 02:13:24 pm
Your car looks spot on. Im glad your happy with the new coilovers.

If you havent already, its well worth getting front a rear anti rollbars. They truly do handle like its on rails. the turn in is even more direct.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 20, 2017, 02:17:35 pm
Your car looks spot on. Im glad your happy with the new coilovers.

If you havent already, its well worth getting front a rear anti rollbars. They truly do handle like its on rails. the turn in is even more direct.
Thanks mate

Yeah ARBs are on the long list of things to do. Will probably look at sorting the wishbone bushes too, either an ALK or TT/S3 bush.

Slowly but surely it's coming together.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: pudding on April 20, 2017, 02:27:02 pm
I forgot you had a "Should I stay or should I go now...." thread.   I'm glad you've bonded with the old girl again  :smiley:

All your mods are working out great by the sounds of it, which is also cool  :happy2:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Paradox1 on April 20, 2017, 02:34:55 pm
Your car looks spot on. Im glad your happy with the new coilovers.

If you havent already, its well worth getting front a rear anti rollbars. They truly do handle like its on rails. the turn in is even more direct.
Thanks mate

Yeah ARBs are on the long list of things to do. Will probably look at sorting the wishbone bushes too, either an ALK or TT/S3 bush.

Slowly but surely it's coming together.

Not sure what condition your current bushes are in but if there not causing a problem or are badly worn I wouldnt bother. imi so pleased with my car with the way it handles im not going to bother with wishbone bushes until they need replacing or start to affect the way the car hands.

Just enjoy the car how it is now.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 20, 2017, 02:39:50 pm
I forgot you had a "Should I stay or should I go now...." thread.   I'm glad you've bonded with the old girl again  :smiley:

All your mods are working out great by the sounds of it, which is also cool  :happy2:
Thanks pal. Yeah I had a wobble, but persevered, and here we are! I decided to make it my build thread

Fingers crossed, yes, it's becoming the car I envisioned when I bought it a couple of years ago. Still a long way to go, but I'm happy with the current progress.

Main jobs next are more maintenance than fun and games - service, thermostat, fuel filter and a general checkover. Might get the oil pickup checked for peace of mind.

If I get all the pipework I need for the DV relocation in time I'll get that done too while it's in.

Then it's those cosmetic bits, and hopefully a trouble-free summer.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 20, 2017, 02:42:54 pm
Your car looks spot on. Im glad your happy with the new coilovers.

If you havent already, its well worth getting front a rear anti rollbars. They truly do handle like its on rails. the turn in is even more direct.
Thanks mate

Yeah ARBs are on the long list of things to do. Will probably look at sorting the wishbone bushes too, either an ALK or TT/S3 bush.

Slowly but surely it's coming together.

Not sure what condition your current bushes are in but if there not causing a problem or are badly worn I wouldnt bother. imi so pleased with my car with the way it handles im not going to bother with wishbone bushes until they need replacing or start to affect the way the car hands.

Just enjoy the car how it is now.
Fair point. It's never been a job I've been desperate to do, just one of those 'maybes' on the list. I hear good and bad about the Anti Lift Kits anyway. We'll see.

I'd rather put any money towards a K04 fund than anything else if I'm really honest
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Paradox1 on April 20, 2017, 03:25:55 pm
Your car looks spot on. Im glad your happy with the new coilovers.

If you havent already, its well worth getting front a rear anti rollbars. They truly do handle like its on rails. the turn in is even more direct.
Thanks mate

Yeah ARBs are on the long list of things to do. Will probably look at sorting the wishbone bushes too, either an ALK or TT/S3 bush.

Slowly but surely it's coming together.

Not sure what condition your current bushes are in but if there not causing a problem or are badly worn I wouldnt bother. imi so pleased with my car with the way it handles im not going to bother with wishbone bushes until they need replacing or start to affect the way the car hands.

Just enjoy the car how it is now.
Fair point. It's never been a job I've been desperate to do, just one of those 'maybes' on the list. I hear good and bad about the Anti Lift Kits anyway. We'll see.

I'd rather put any money towards a K04 fund than anything else if I'm really honest

Im in the same boat mate. My dilema now is k04 of hybrid k04 lol
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 20, 2017, 03:31:53 pm
Your car looks spot on. Im glad your happy with the new coilovers.

If you havent already, its well worth getting front a rear anti rollbars. They truly do handle like its on rails. the turn in is even more direct.
Thanks mate

Yeah ARBs are on the long list of things to do. Will probably look at sorting the wishbone bushes too, either an ALK or TT/S3 bush.

Slowly but surely it's coming together.

Not sure what condition your current bushes are in but if there not causing a problem or are badly worn I wouldnt bother. imi so pleased with my car with the way it handles im not going to bother with wishbone bushes until they need replacing or start to affect the way the car hands.

Just enjoy the car how it is now.
Fair point. It's never been a job I've been desperate to do, just one of those 'maybes' on the list. I hear good and bad about the Anti Lift Kits anyway. We'll see.

I'd rather put any money towards a K04 fund than anything else if I'm really honest

Im in the same boat mate. My dilema now is k04 of hybrid k04 lol
I haven't even considered a hybrid k04. BWA and 400lb/ft+ means forged internals to me. Or at least a BYD/CDL bottom end. Is that something you're looking at?

I do like the sound of an anti surge K04 though. @dansmith180 has the BBT one, and his graph looks bloody nice. No problems ramping the boost up early. On paper it barely looks laggier than a K03.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: pudding on April 20, 2017, 04:47:21 pm
You two still run standard console bushes?  :stupid: :grin:

Get a TTE420  :notworthy:

All this forging stuff is a nice idea, but it's not an infallible suit of armor.  It just stops the engine from blowing quite as easily as it would with cast pistons and rods.  There is a lot of scaremongery on the TFSI tuning group from members who push things too far by running standard KO4s at 2 bar, mapped in hard cut limiters, anti-lag flames and bangs........and they wonder why they get smoke from their exhausts and break their ring lands.

You don't need to run 400lbft.  For one thing the manual box is only rated to 320lbft (by VW themselves) and secondly, sometimes less is more.  More traction!  350lbft is mechanically safer but also gives less wheelspin than 400lbft.  I've seen people blowing rear diffs on S3s on, surprise surprise, the TFSI group running that kind of torque.   So I suppose what I'm rattling on about is, yeah, get a hybrid but don't run it flat out.  Keep some headroom there. :smiley: 
 
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Paradox1 on April 20, 2017, 04:59:21 pm
Your car looks spot on. Im glad your happy with the new coilovers.

If you havent already, its well worth getting front a rear anti rollbars. They truly do handle like its on rails. the turn in is even more direct.
Thanks mate

Yeah ARBs are on the long list of things to do. Will probably look at sorting the wishbone bushes too, either an ALK or TT/S3 bush.

Slowly but surely it's coming together.

Not sure what condition your current bushes are in but if there not causing a problem or are badly worn I wouldnt bother. imi so pleased with my car with the way it handles im not going to bother with wishbone bushes until they need replacing or start to affect the way the car hands.

Just enjoy the car how it is now.
Fair point. It's never been a job I've been desperate to do, just one of those 'maybes' on the list. I hear good and bad about the Anti Lift Kits anyway. We'll see.

I'd rather put any money towards a K04 fund than anything else if I'm really honest

Im in the same boat mate. My dilema now is k04 of hybrid k04 lol
I haven't even considered a hybrid k04. BWA and 400lb/ft+ means forged internals to me. Or at least a BYD/CDL bottom end. Is that something you're looking at?

I do like the sound of an anti surge K04 though. @dansmith180 (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=9450) has the BBT one, and his graph looks bloody nice. No problems ramping the boost up early. On paper it barely looks laggier than a K03.

Yes If I do decide to rebuild as a standard k04 it will definitely have the anti surge wheel. I have a TSI engine so I dont have the typical BWA problems. Still wouldnt mind switchable maps though.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Paradox1 on April 20, 2017, 05:04:56 pm
You two still run standard console bushes?  :stupid: :grin:

Get a TTE420  :notworthy:

All this forging stuff is a nice idea, but it's not an infallible suit of armor.  It just stops the engine from blowing quite as easily as it would with cast pistons and rods.  There is a lot of scaremongery on the TFSI tuning group from members who push things too far by running standard KO4s at 2 bar, mapped in hard cut limiters, anti-lag flames and bangs........and they wonder why they get smoke from their exhausts and break their ring lands.

You don't need to run 400lbft.  For one thing the manual box is only rated to 320lbft (by VW themselves) and secondly, sometimes less is more.  More traction!  350lbft is mechanically safer but also gives less wheelspin than 400lbft.  I've seen people blowing rear diffs on S3s on, surprise surprise, the TFSI group running that kind of torque.   So I suppose what I'm rattling on about is, yeah, get a hybrid but don't run it flat out.  Keep some headroom there. :smiley:
The TTE420 is a decent turbo but im not willing to spend the money on it tbh. there are other people who can rebuild a k04 that is a decent spec for less money. not saying more power that TTE but you get my drift.

I wouldnt want 400+ everyday, id like it keep this below the limit just incase. You alwasy hear of people getting mapped with XXX turbo then end up selling or or breaking it as it develops problems. for me I want the power(not flat out) but more so I want the reliability. All a compromise.

Like you said 350bhp/tq would put a smile on our faces, its just people get a bit greedy for power knowing you can gain more. If I can get 380ish from a rebuild k04, a TTE420 hardly seems worth the cost for an extra 40bhp
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 20, 2017, 05:06:51 pm
Your car looks spot on. Im glad your happy with the new coilovers.

If you havent already, its well worth getting front a rear anti rollbars. They truly do handle like its on rails. the turn in is even more direct.
Thanks mate

Yeah ARBs are on the long list of things to do. Will probably look at sorting the wishbone bushes too, either an ALK or TT/S3 bush.

Slowly but surely it's coming together.

Not sure what condition your current bushes are in but if there not causing a problem or are badly worn I wouldnt bother. imi so pleased with my car with the way it handles im not going to bother with wishbone bushes until they need replacing or start to affect the way the car hands.

Just enjoy the car how it is now.
Fair point. It's never been a job I've been desperate to do, just one of those 'maybes' on the list. I hear good and bad about the Anti Lift Kits anyway. We'll see.

I'd rather put any money towards a K04 fund than anything else if I'm really honest

Im in the same boat mate. My dilema now is k04 of hybrid k04 lol
I haven't even considered a hybrid k04. BWA and 400lb/ft+ means forged internals to me. Or at least a BYD/CDL bottom end. Is that something you're looking at?

I do like the sound of an anti surge K04 though. @dansmith180 (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=9450) has the BBT one, and his graph looks bloody nice. No problems ramping the boost up early. On paper it barely looks laggier than a K03.

Yes If I do decide to rebuild as a standard k04 it will definitely have the anti surge wheel. I have a TSI engine so I dont have the typical BWA problems. Still wouldnt mind switchable maps though.
Ahhh mk6? I don't know too much about the 888. It's a fair bit stronger then?

You've saved on a fuel pump if nothing else.

Yeah anti-surge is the way to go. I just don't like the idea of mapping around a mechanical idiosyncrasy and potentially losing out on boost. Don't get me wrong, there are plenty of genuinely fast 'normal' k04 cars out there, but while there's a better result available I'll have a good look at it.

Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Paradox1 on April 20, 2017, 05:09:30 pm
Your car looks spot on. Im glad your happy with the new coilovers.

If you havent already, its well worth getting front a rear anti rollbars. They truly do handle like its on rails. the turn in is even more direct.
Thanks mate

Yeah ARBs are on the long list of things to do. Will probably look at sorting the wishbone bushes too, either an ALK or TT/S3 bush.

Slowly but surely it's coming together.

Not sure what condition your current bushes are in but if there not causing a problem or are badly worn I wouldnt bother. imi so pleased with my car with the way it handles im not going to bother with wishbone bushes until they need replacing or start to affect the way the car hands.

Just enjoy the car how it is now.
Fair point. It's never been a job I've been desperate to do, just one of those 'maybes' on the list. I hear good and bad about the Anti Lift Kits anyway. We'll see.

I'd rather put any money towards a K04 fund than anything else if I'm really honest

Im in the same boat mate. My dilema now is k04 of hybrid k04 lol
I haven't even considered a hybrid k04. BWA and 400lb/ft+ means forged internals to me. Or at least a BYD/CDL bottom end. Is that something you're looking at?

I do like the sound of an anti surge K04 though. @dansmith180 (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=9450) has the BBT one, and his graph looks bloody nice. No problems ramping the boost up early. On paper it barely looks laggier than a K03.

Yes If I do decide to rebuild as a standard k04 it will definitely have the anti surge wheel. I have a TSI engine so I dont have the typical BWA problems. Still wouldnt mind switchable maps though.
Ahhh mk6? I don't know too much about the 888. It's a fair bit stronger then?

You've saved on a fuel pump if nothing else.

Yeah anti-surge is the way to go. I just don't like the idea of mapping around a mechanical idiosyncrasy and potentially losing out on boost. Don't get me wrong, there are plenty of genuinely fast 'normal' k04 cars out there, but while there's a better result available I'll have a good look at it.

Yeah ea888 engine. was actually looking for a ed30 but found the ea888 engines are quite decent. no need for hpfp or injectors up to 400+
you have to decide what you want mate. no point in having a car that has too uch power and doesnt tick all the boxes etc.

Who are you planning on getting the mapping done by?
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 20, 2017, 05:13:27 pm
You two still run standard console bushes?  :stupid: :grin:

Get a TTE420  :notworthy:

All this forging stuff is a nice idea, but it's not an infallible suit of armor.  It just stops the engine from blowing quite as easily as it would with cast pistons and rods.  There is a lot of scaremongery on the TFSI tuning group from members who push things too far by running standard KO4s at 2 bar, mapped in hard cut limiters, anti-lag flames and bangs........and they wonder why they get smoke from their exhausts and break their ring lands.

You don't need to run 400lbft.  For one thing the manual box is only rated to 320lbft (by VW themselves) and secondly, sometimes less is more.  More traction!  350lbft is mechanically safer but also gives less wheelspin than 400lbft.  I've seen people blowing rear diffs on S3s on, surprise surprise, the TFSI group running that kind of torque.   So I suppose what I'm rattling on about is, yeah, get a hybrid but don't run it flat out.  Keep some headroom there. :smiley:
Agree with that Pudding. It's all about the headroom!

One thing for me (in terms of the anti-surge discussion) is that it appears to allow a quicker spool. Now whether I'd peak at 400lb/ft or not (and I'd prefer not, for the reasons you noted) I really do like the idea of a mapper not having hurdles in front of him in terms of spool. I'm kind of making assumptions here though, purely based on Dan's graph. Lay it over a 2+ k03 graph, and a 2+ vanilla k04 graph, and the torque comes in somewhere in between the two. Ideal. Especially considering how everyone was talking about k03 hybrids a while back - in practice they spool no earlier than a vanilla k04.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 20, 2017, 05:16:12 pm
It'll be Mr Gower or Steve at Statller for the mapping @Paradox1

Good experience with both of them

Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Shoduchi on April 20, 2017, 05:18:55 pm
You two still run standard console bushes?  :stupid: :grin:

Get a TTE420  :notworthy:

All this forging stuff is a nice idea, but it's not an infallible suit of armor.  It just stops the engine from blowing quite as easily as it would with cast pistons and rods.  There is a lot of scaremongery on the TFSI tuning group from members who push things too far by running standard KO4s at 2 bar, mapped in hard cut limiters, anti-lag flames and bangs........and they wonder why they get smoke from their exhausts and break their ring lands.

You don't need to run 400lbft.  For one thing the manual box is only rated to 320lbft (by VW themselves) and secondly, sometimes less is more.  More traction!  350lbft is mechanically safer but also gives less wheelspin than 400lbft.  I've seen people blowing rear diffs on S3s on, surprise surprise, the TFSI group running that kind of torque.   So I suppose what I'm rattling on about is, yeah, get a hybrid but don't run it flat out.  Keep some headroom there. :smiley:
Wise words in my opinion. :happy2:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Paradox1 on April 20, 2017, 05:20:20 pm
You cant go wrong with either tbh.

Im thinking Nicki or Unicorn motor developments.

Although NVM Motorsports have made a name for themselves aswell
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 20, 2017, 05:43:57 pm
You cant go wrong with either tbh.

Im thinking Nicki or Unicorn motor developments.

Although NVM Motorsports have made a name for themselves aswell
Yeah it's Rick/Rich at Unicorn isn't it? Met a guy at Statller with a k04 Passat with a Unicorn map. Adam I think. He was on here a while ago. Seemed very happy with the car. Unfortunately he had a bump soon after that and as far as I know the project ended

Will look into NVM.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Pesky jones on April 21, 2017, 09:28:22 am
Glad to see how you're getting on with it, looks well! Be interesting to see where you go

I have a k04 on BWA at the moment which isn’t mapped yet. I was of the impression that approaching 400 ftlb is rod bending territory as well. Don’t think I’ll get close to that though off minimum 2+ hardware (k04 injectors, rs4 valve, intake, 3” decat, VIS hpfp). Would you need RFD and maybe water/meth and maybe a few other bits to get close to 400ftlb? Definitely need them to get close to 400bhp.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Paradox1 on April 21, 2017, 09:54:58 am
You cant go wrong with either tbh.

Im thinking Nicki or Unicorn motor developments.

Although NVM Motorsports have made a name for themselves aswell
Yeah it's Rick/Rich at Unicorn isn't it? Met a guy at Statller with a k04 Passat with a Unicorn map. Adam I think. He was on here a while ago. Seemed very happy with the car. Unfortunately he had a bump soon after that and as far as I know the project ended

Will look into NVM.

Indeed.

Ive been to nicki several times and never had a bad thing to say. he could have easily slap a map on my previous car and told me to do 1 but instead he spend about another hour logging and tweaking the map. Props to him always.

Unicorn are well respected too and do alot of the RS audi model too.

NVM are in birningham and seem to be making a name for themselves too.

Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Paradox1 on April 21, 2017, 10:02:19 am
Glad to see how you're getting on with it, looks well! Be interesting to see where you go

I have a k04 on BWA at the moment which isn’t mapped yet. I was of the impression that approaching 400 ftlb is rod bending territory as well. Don’t think I’ll get close to that though off minimum 2+ hardware (k04 injectors, rs4 valve, intake, 3” decat, VIS hpfp). Would you need RFD and maybe water/meth and maybe a few other bits to get close to 400ftlb? Definitely need them to get close to 400bhp.

Try to keep it below. maybe 380tq. or less. either way the engine could go pop at standard buts less likely if you reduce the torque to be on the safe side. ahve you fitted your injectors already? Ive been told to fit injectors when you about to go for the mapping session as the fueling will be all over the place. have you logged your fuelling?

I wouldnt bother with a rfd unless (like mine) Your rf sensors are gone. water meth is a decent access if you want to push the boundaries. not essential though if he run super fuel and a decent cool. but im running it.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 21, 2017, 10:10:41 am
Glad to see how you're getting on with it, looks well! Be interesting to see where you go

I have a k04 on BWA at the moment which isn’t mapped yet. I was of the impression that approaching 400 ftlb is rod bending territory as well. Don’t think I’ll get close to that though off minimum 2+ hardware (k04 injectors, rs4 valve, intake, 3” decat, VIS hpfp). Would you need RFD and maybe water/meth and maybe a few other bits to get close to 400ftlb? Definitely need them to get close to 400bhp.
Cheers mate. I've been reading up on k04 conversions, k03 hybrids etc for a while. And it'll be a while before I go down that route, if at all.

It's a funny one. Some days the car feels rapid, others it makes me want an extra 50lb/ft at high revs. Maybe depends what road I'm on, or the mood I'm in, but I seem to change my mind about it a lot.

As for BWA internals, I get the impression if torque is capped to say 350/360lb/ft there shouldn't be too much of an issue. And a sympathetic map is half the problem solved.

400lb/ft is k04 hybrid territory, or at least water-meth etc like you mentioned. It's not something I'll be trying with a BWA!

Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Paradox1 on April 21, 2017, 10:20:27 am
Glad to see how you're getting on with it, looks well! Be interesting to see where you go

I have a k04 on BWA at the moment which isn’t mapped yet. I was of the impression that approaching 400 ftlb is rod bending territory as well. Don’t think I’ll get close to that though off minimum 2+ hardware (k04 injectors, rs4 valve, intake, 3” decat, VIS hpfp). Would you need RFD and maybe water/meth and maybe a few other bits to get close to 400ftlb? Definitely need them to get close to 400bhp.
Cheers mate. I've been reading up on k04 conversions, k03 hybrids etc for a while. And it'll be a while before I go down that route, if at all.

It's a funny one. Some days the car feels rapid, others it makes me want an extra 50lb/ft at high revs. Maybe depends what road I'm on, or the mood I'm in, but I seem to change my mind about it a lot.

As for BWA internals, I get the impression if torque is capped to say 350/360lb/ft there shouldn't be too much of an issue. And a sympathetic map is half the problem solved.

400lb/ft is k04 hybrid territory, or at least water-meth etc like you mentioned. It's not something I'll be trying with a BWA!

I know the feeling pal. I was convinced my car was mapped by the previous own by how quick it would pick up. I checked the boost and it was standard 10psi. but I feel the mods ive added to it has made a difference. Can only imagine how it will feel once mapped.

Alot of it comes down to how you drive. I.E keeping the speed up and carrying the speed through the corners....at 30mph of course...
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 21, 2017, 11:05:55 am
Glad to see how you're getting on with it, looks well! Be interesting to see where you go

I have a k04 on BWA at the moment which isn’t mapped yet. I was of the impression that approaching 400 ftlb is rod bending territory as well. Don’t think I’ll get close to that though off minimum 2+ hardware (k04 injectors, rs4 valve, intake, 3” decat, VIS hpfp). Would you need RFD and maybe water/meth and maybe a few other bits to get close to 400ftlb? Definitely need them to get close to 400bhp.
Cheers mate. I've been reading up on k04 conversions, k03 hybrids etc for a while. And it'll be a while before I go down that route, if at all.

It's a funny one. Some days the car feels rapid, others it makes me want an extra 50lb/ft at high revs. Maybe depends what road I'm on, or the mood I'm in, but I seem to change my mind about it a lot.

As for BWA internals, I get the impression if torque is capped to say 350/360lb/ft there shouldn't be too much of an issue. And a sympathetic map is half the problem solved.

400lb/ft is k04 hybrid territory, or at least water-meth etc like you mentioned. It's not something I'll be trying with a BWA!

I know the feeling pal. I was convinced my car was mapped by the previous own by how quick it would pick up. I checked the boost and it was standard 10psi. but I feel the mods ive added to it has made a difference. Can only imagine how it will feel once mapped.

Alot of it comes down to how you drive. I.E keeping the speed up and carrying the speed through the corners....at 30mph of course...
It'll shift once you get it mapped. Are you still on the standard IC then? I'll probably pick up an alloy S3 one at some point - it should do a job for a k04 at 1.3-1.4 bar. Definitely enough for the k03 if it stays that way. Interestingly, last time I spoke to Steve at Statller he said a standard GTI IC would be fine for a k04. Maybe it would running a little less boost than a full-fat k04 setup.

While the temptation is there right now to go full steam ahead on a k04, I don't want to fall into the trap of neglecting the basics. Now it's sat how I like, and drives how I like, I'll clear the list of any little bits of maintenence, tart it up a bit, and enjoy it.
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Paradox1 on April 21, 2017, 11:17:48 am
definitely enjoy it how it is before you start buying more stuff. Thats what im doing but doing little bit at the same time.

I got full stage 2 mods. I have a wellycooler fitted to it.

I could go for a map tomorrow to be fair, but I think i'll eventually start kicking myself thinking I should have just went k04/hybrid and call it a day
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: pudding on April 21, 2017, 11:48:47 am
You two still run standard console bushes?  :stupid: :grin:

Get a TTE420  :notworthy:

All this forging stuff is a nice idea, but it's not an infallible suit of armor.  It just stops the engine from blowing quite as easily as it would with cast pistons and rods.  There is a lot of scaremongery on the TFSI tuning group from members who push things too far by running standard KO4s at 2 bar, mapped in hard cut limiters, anti-lag flames and bangs........and they wonder why they get smoke from their exhausts and break their ring lands.

You don't need to run 400lbft.  For one thing the manual box is only rated to 320lbft (by VW themselves) and secondly, sometimes less is more.  More traction!  350lbft is mechanically safer but also gives less wheelspin than 400lbft.  I've seen people blowing rear diffs on S3s on, surprise surprise, the TFSI group running that kind of torque.   So I suppose what I'm rattling on about is, yeah, get a hybrid but don't run it flat out.  Keep some headroom there. :smiley:
The TTE420 is a decent turbo but im not willing to spend the money on it tbh. there are other people who can rebuild a k04 that is a decent spec for less money. not saying more power that TTE but you get my drift.

I wouldnt want 400+ everyday, id like it keep this below the limit just incase. You alwasy hear of people getting mapped with XXX turbo then end up selling or or breaking it as it develops problems. for me I want the power(not flat out) but more so I want the reliability. All a compromise.

Like you said 350bhp/tq would put a smile on our faces, its just people get a bit greedy for power knowing you can gain more. If I can get 380ish from a rebuild k04, a TTE420 hardly seems worth the cost for an extra 40bhp

I was just being blasé about the TTE420, I know there are plenty of decent alternatives  :smiley:

I chose that turbo mainly because I got it £600 cheaper on Awesome's black Friday, and my KO4 is on it's way out.  There's a fair bit of shaft play and it's getting noisy.

It also addresses all of the standard KO4's shortcomings (surging, crap bearings, limited top end etc) whilst spooling just as early and being built to run those kind of shaft speeds.  Given a standard turbo is £1000+VAT from VW, £1500 for a 420 is comparatively good value for such a big upgrade, both in terms of build quality and flow.  Well, that's how I justify the expense to myself at least  :grin:
I certainly wouldn't pay the full £2K+ whack for one.  I'm with you there.

Yeah I am always suspicious of people spending £1000s on big upgrades and then selling the car a week after completion.  What are they not telling us?

I hear that a lot.  "What's the point of a TTE420 when a KO4 can do 380-400?".  Similarly, why did VW bother with a KO4 on the Edition 30 to make 30hp more than the GTI?  It's the garden hose vs fire truck hose flow analogy again.  It's all about flow.
Those bigger turbine/compressor wheels kick like a mule, and I would rather make 380hp from less pressure, which doesn't heat the intercooler up as much and is friendlier to the engine.  Again, less is more  :happy2:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: r5gtt on April 21, 2017, 12:07:21 pm
It's a little crazy people wanting to go TTE420 when a K04 can reach 380 and hold its own plus wmi will add a few horses to this for a lot less than what you'd be spending on a tte and forging imho.

@Paradox1 (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=9564) hurry the heck up and go hybrid you indecisive you  :signLOL: why you pussy footing around  :thinking:

Sorry @AJP (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=11926) but someone has to tell him  :grin:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Pesky jones on April 21, 2017, 01:06:07 pm

Try to keep it below. maybe 380tq. or less. either way the engine could go pop at standard buts less likely if you reduce the torque to be on the safe side. ahve you fitted your injectors already? Ive been told to fit injectors when you about to go for the mapping session as the fueling will be all over the place. have you logged your fuelling?

I wouldnt bother with a rfd unless (like mine) Your rf sensors are gone. water meth is a decent access if you want to push the boundaries. not essential though if he run super fuel and a decent cool. but im running it.

Its still running k03 injectors. If I put my foot down as is, the engine runs very lean and could melt pistons. The k04 2+ fuelling hardware (injectors, RS4 FPV, 200bar sensor) needs to go in accompanied by a new map at the same time. So im going to install the hardware and send the ECU to nikki for a base map which will run the engine on low but safe boost.

I have done some logging which shows it is only asking for the k03 fuelling pressure of 110bar. Which suggests the map isn’t even asking for any fuel for the K04. Also boosting to high heaven as I only have a 2.5 bar MAP sensor installed (do have the 3.5 sensor ready for the base map). The boost graph looks like a flat top pyramid – there is a whole peak of “unknown” boost I cant see as the sensor cant read it.


It's a little crazy people wanting to go TTE420 when a K04 can reach 380 and hold its own plus wmi will add a few horses to this for a lot less than what you'd be spending on a tte and forging imho.

@Paradox1 (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=9564) hurry the heck up and go hybrid you indecisive you  :signLOL: why you pussy footing around  :thinking:

Sorry @AJP (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=11926) but someone has to tell him  :grin:

I agree with the last two paragraphs of Puddings last post.

R5 calling someone indecisive  :doh:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Paradox1 on April 21, 2017, 01:14:51 pm
It's a little crazy people wanting to go TTE420 when a K04 can reach 380 and hold its own plus wmi will add a few horses to this for a lot less than what you'd be spending on a tte and forging imho.

@Paradox1 (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=9564) hurry the heck up and go hybrid you indecisive you  :signLOL: why you pussy footing around  :thinking:

Sorry @AJP (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=11926) but someone has to tell him  :grin:

@r5gtt (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=11199)  - I will. just need to find someone to weld the turbo housing for me. Im not paying stupid money fot 10mins work
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: r5gtt on April 21, 2017, 01:55:36 pm

Try to keep it below. maybe 380tq. or less. either way the engine could go pop at standard buts less likely if you reduce the torque to be on the safe side. ahve you fitted your injectors already? Ive been told to fit injectors when you about to go for the mapping session as the fueling will be all over the place. have you logged your fuelling?

I wouldnt bother with a rfd unless (like mine) Your rf sensors are gone. water meth is a decent access if you want to push the boundaries. not essential though if he run super fuel and a decent cool. but im running it.

Its still running k03 injectors. If I put my foot down as is, the engine runs very lean and could melt pistons. The k04 2+ fuelling hardware (injectors, RS4 FPV, 200bar sensor) needs to go in accompanied by a new map at the same time. So im going to install the hardware and send the ECU to nikki for a base map which will run the engine on low but safe boost.

I have done some logging which shows it is only asking for the k03 fuelling pressure of 110bar. Which suggests the map isn’t even asking for any fuel for the K04. Also boosting to high heaven as I only have a 2.5 bar MAP sensor installed (do have the 3.5 sensor ready for the base map). The boost graph looks like a flat top pyramid – there is a whole peak of “unknown” boost I cant see as the sensor cant read it.


It's a little crazy people wanting to go TTE420 when a K04 can reach 380 and hold its own plus wmi will add a few horses to this for a lot less than what you'd be spending on a tte and forging imho.

@Paradox1 (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=9564) hurry the heck up and go hybrid you indecisive you  :signLOL: why you pussy footing around  :thinking:

Sorry @AJP (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=11926) but someone has to tell him  :grin:

I agree with the last two paragraphs of Puddings last post.

R5 calling someone indecisive  :doh:
private joke  :fighting2:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: r5gtt on April 21, 2017, 01:57:08 pm
It's a little crazy people wanting to go TTE420 when a K04 can reach 380 and hold its own plus wmi will add a few horses to this for a lot less than what you'd be spending on a tte and forging imho.

@Paradox1 (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=9564) hurry the heck up and go hybrid you indecisive you  :signLOL: why you pussy footing around  :thinking:

Sorry @AJP (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=11926) but someone has to tell him  :grin:

@r5gtt (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=11199)  - I will. just need to find someone to weld the turbo housing for me. Im not paying stupid money fot 10mins work
ano bro some people hey  :stupid:  :signLOL:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Paradox1 on April 21, 2017, 02:06:39 pm

Try to keep it below. maybe 380tq. or less. either way the engine could go pop at standard buts less likely if you reduce the torque to be on the safe side. ahve you fitted your injectors already? Ive been told to fit injectors when you about to go for the mapping session as the fueling will be all over the place. have you logged your fuelling?

I wouldnt bother with a rfd unless (like mine) Your rf sensors are gone. water meth is a decent access if you want to push the boundaries. not essential though if he run super fuel and a decent cool. but im running it.

Its still running k03 injectors. If I put my foot down as is, the engine runs very lean and could melt pistons. The k04 2+ fuelling hardware (injectors, RS4 FPV, 200bar sensor) needs to go in accompanied by a new map at the same time. So im going to install the hardware and send the ECU to nikki for a base map which will run the engine on low but safe boost.

I have done some logging which shows it is only asking for the k03 fuelling pressure of 110bar. Which suggests the map isn’t even asking for any fuel for the K04. Also boosting to high heaven as I only have a 2.5 bar MAP sensor installed (do have the 3.5 sensor ready for the base map). The boost graph looks like a flat top pyramid – there is a whole peak of “unknown” boost I cant see as the sensor cant read it.


It's a little crazy people wanting to go TTE420 when a K04 can reach 380 and hold its own plus wmi will add a few horses to this for a lot less than what you'd be spending on a tte and forging imho.

@Paradox1 (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=9564) hurry the heck up and go hybrid you indecisive you  :signLOL: why you pussy footing around  :thinking:

Sorry @AJP (http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=11926) but someone has to tell him  :grin:

I agree with the last two paragraphs of Puddings last post.

R5 calling someone indecisive  :doh:

I can tell yopu've done your homework on this.

You got me thinking now. im not sure if I need a 3bar Map sensor for mine or if I already have one fitted. will have to do some research.
 :thinking: :thinking:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Pesky jones on April 21, 2017, 02:48:55 pm
K03 MAP sensor revision is B and D I believe. K04 revision is C. Quite fiddly but shouldn't take long to check - about half way up the charge pipe. K03 sensor will read up to 2580mbar IIRC so if your boost reaches that, then flatlines at 2580mbar then you have k03 MAP. If it goes past that then you have K04 MAP sensor. Obviously you need to be running above 2580mbar (22psi after atmospheric) in the first place. Probably quicker and easier just to check the part number  :laugh:

Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: r5gtt on April 21, 2017, 11:54:41 pm
Check PN after that essay  :phew:  :signLOL:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: MIJ_JAGGER on April 22, 2017, 12:43:59 pm
Great thread matey the ed30 lights do transform the rear, they look better on red cars I think
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 22, 2017, 01:21:34 pm
Great thread matey the ed30 lights do transform the rear, they look better on red cars I think
Thanks pal

Yeah it's hopefully something I'll get done at some point. The current 'red on red' look needs to go! I had my eye on a set of R32 rears on ebay a few weeks ago, but they ended up bidding up to silly money.

No rush for them just yet though, I want to try and be sensible and get up to scratch with maintenance first. But when I do get round to it I'll also be looking to get some xenons/Depos to complete the look
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: pudding on April 22, 2017, 05:22:04 pm
I thought ED30 and R32 rear lights were the same?  Or do you mean those horrible white ones?  Don't do it mate, yours looks absolutely spot on as it is  :happy2:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: rich83 on April 23, 2017, 12:43:02 am
I thought ED30 and R32 rear lights were the same?  Or do you mean those horrible white ones?  Don't do it mate, yours looks absolutely spot on as it is  :happy2:

They are.  :happy2:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 23, 2017, 09:27:31 am
I thought ED30 and R32 rear lights were the same?  Or do you mean those horrible white ones?  Don't do it mate, yours looks absolutely spot on as it is  :happy2:
Yeah, the ones on ebay were listed as 'R32' - the same as ed30.

And as for the 'horrible white ones', if you mean Valeos, then I completely agree. They're foul!
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on March 29, 2018, 07:59:21 pm
Wow... been almost a year since I updated this!

The Vogtland coilovers have proven to be a good bet, they're still tight and feel just as good as when they were fitted. No issues whatsoever.

I've finally got round to sorting the brakes. Got some new PP calipers with OEM pads that will be going on with some two piece Clubsport S discs in a week or so. The PP calipers coming off will be sent for a full rebuild and refurb - I'm convinced there's a sticky piston so I want them sorting 100% before I move them on.

The clutch slave popped a few weeks ago, which was new with the Helix Organic clutch that went in a couple of years ago. Bit disappointing that the cylinder died so soon, but I gather they're not of the best construction. They don't like heat. Also had an alarm fault that needed a new sensor and siren. Quite an expensive couple of months.

Still a love/hate affair with the Ramair intake. Love the dumping noises and reasonable increase in power from 4k up, hate the weird resonance noises you get from intakes on a k03 car. I've been reading up on Pudding's work with the VWR intake (well done mate). I won't rule out picking up one of the revised versions in the future. The Ramair also sits questionably close to some coolant hoses. It won't kill me to go back to the standard airbox if all else fails. I won't lose too much top end, might claw back a bit of the response it's lost coming onto boost, and I'll sleep better at night knowing nothing dodgy is happening like rubbing through a coolant hose...!

As for top end power, a k04 is still there in the back of my mind. It's an itch that won't go away. Steve at Statller has high praise for the Etuners maps he does, as does Hurdy, so I'll probably go for that rather than back to R-Tech if and when the k04 gets bolted in. Makes sense to me to let Steve do the lot, he's only 20 minutes away, and I'm interested to find out how good the Etuners maps are. From what I gather there are loads of options... such as a bit of extra fuel on the overrun if you know what I mean. Might need to change the BCS cat to a decat to stay safe but it's a bit of fun at the end of the day :)

Intercooler wise I need to find out about the revised Peron, if it's actually a thing yet. Seems to differ depending who you speak to. There's always the S3 cooler as a safe bet.

So not much of an update, but more an 'all is currently fine' post! Still get a buzz driving it in the right conditions, still surprises some genuinely fast stuff on the road. I'll keep her alive as long as I can :)
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: pudding on April 04, 2018, 01:54:26 pm
 :grin:  Jesus wept!

Anyway, good updates AJP  :happy2: Looking forward to your forthcoming brake review. Still haven’t done mine yet  :slap:

The S3 is more than adequate for a K03/04 road only car imo.  Dyno tuners like to see the lowest possible intake temps in order to eek out their claimed hp gains, but hot dyno cells heat soak an engine/intercooler way more than they will ever see out in the open.  A little fan doesn’t even come close to nature’s finest :happy2:

Racingline were very complimentary about ETuners when I was there, talking shop, so you’ll be in good hands there.  You’re lucky Statlers is so close to you!
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: Shoduchi on April 04, 2018, 02:08:56 pm
Yeah! Finally an update!  :pomppomp: (I also have to update mine... :innocent: )

Glad you're happy with the Vogtlands. If you want more top end, the K04 is a good bet. The K03 will always be more responsive on lower revs so you might miss that responsiveness.

About the IC, I'd go for the Airtec stage 2, if you upgrade the turbo. It's a safe bet with a similar price. The Peron seems to be always revising...

Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 04, 2018, 07:21:55 pm
Cheers guys!

Right now I'm at the 'keep everything sweet' stage... so in the summer at service time I'll look into more preventative measures to hopefully give it the best chance of a healthy life as an OAP. It's 11 this year!

At that point then I'll look at further upgrades. Small financial matter of doing up the house at the minute but any funds left over will undoubtedly go into the go-faster kitty :)
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 11, 2018, 07:03:51 pm
Got her home today from Statller.

Clubsport S discs with brand new calipers and pads. New cam follower. Fixed a split/popped clutch valve thingy. Dropped the oil etc. Boring preventative maintenance really, but I think these cars are now getting to the age you've got to commit to that and spend some money, or move on.

Next trip around summer will be a big service and fuel filter, oil pickup, potentially chain tensioner. Then maybe some fun bits...

All being well I'll start stockpiling bits for a k04. I've got a few parts already, a boost hose, dv relocation wiring etc. I know there's a fair bit more but I guess with those parts already there I'm obliged to see it through ☺ Really the main things will be injectors, a suitable IC, and of course the blower itself. I'll need to find out what hardware Etuners recommend for a k04 conversion. Things like the MAP sensor.

I'll probably look at getting a bit of paint done on the front end too. The bonnet is a bit stonechipped, and I've still got to get round to painting the honeycomb.

It's a slow build, like all my others in the past... but I think I prefer it that way!

Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: MIJ_JAGGER on April 12, 2018, 10:39:11 am
How you finding the CSS discs?
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: pudding on April 12, 2018, 10:59:02 am
I doubt he’ll feel any difference, but they will resist warping better  :happy2:
Title: Re: AJP's Build - back in love with the GTI
Post by: AJP on April 12, 2018, 11:54:40 pm
There's no judder from the brakes so far... but I've only done a few gentle miles so I'll update in due course. I'll be surprised if it happens again with everything brand new!

I did notice a couple of times today moving off from a stop a slow groaning noise from the offside front... like the noise a bad bearing makes but in slow-mo. No noise at all up past about 5mph and it's intermittent. I did get a front wheel bearing done last year but I can't remember which side. I'll keep an eye on it.

Just nice to have silent brakes finally