Front subframe replacement / swap

[v4rley]

Acquired a subframe which has been polybushed, just after a bit of fitting advice... Obviously undo all the nuts and drop but unsure of how / where the steering rack is attached also which bolts need replacing?
Here's a pic of subframe:

Have a link for partcats of subframe bolts:
http://www.partscats.info/volkswagen/en/?i=cat_vag_models&brand=vw&number=1714&set=1728&ein=2007&f=474&hauptgr=1234567890&hg=4&grf=040700409&bf=40704&hgug=407&ug=07&parent_id=2343838

Also the new subframe is from a R32 but guess it will swap for my GTI fine (does anyone know if the arb are different / better)

[olethalb]

nice set up, you can leave the rack in place (on the car) and drop the subframe entire, you will have to either unclip the rack loom from the plastic guide or slightly easier undo the 10mm head bolt holding the guide to the subframe.

the inner most 4 matching bolts (possibly 16mm heads from memory) hold the rack to the subframe

don't forget the exhaust hanger mount either 

[v4rley]

Thanks @olethalb though you would have a good idea of what the process would require! Yeah it was a good find as need new console bushes anyway!

[olethalb]

i'd drop it down as per picture really,

undo rack bolts (4x16mm head)

undo and remove drop links completely (18mm head nuts if OE)

remove dogbone bolts from gearbox (2x16mm head)

undo the balljoint nuts (3 x 16mm head each side) and pull bones free of ball joint studs
 
remove the 3 main 18mm head bolts either side supporting the subframe in the centre with a trolley jack

lower subframe slowly until there's enough room to access rack loom guide bolt (10mm head) on passenger side

continue to lower subframe ensuring rack is free and clear of arb

* if you have xenons remove sensor loom plug and maybe bracket from wishbone to avoid over extending sensor arm

* remove sump oil level sensor plug and unclip loom from subframe bracket and make sure it's not snagged when dropping subframe

think thats it from memory 

[v4rley]

Fantastic just what I was after, do I need to support the gearbox whilst the dog bone is removed? Will get some new bolts ordered and hopefully tackle somewhen next week

[olethalb]

no gearbox will be fine bud, it may shift 15-20mm forward once bolts are removed but can be pushed back by hand once new frame is bolted up. the box is supported by the top gearbox mount so no problems there.