Been a while since an update. I had a few headaches getting the R32 brakes sorted, and ended up driving my other half's 08 1.4 Corsa for a month or so (wouldn't recommend it). It meant my MOT lapsed for a while, but gave me a chance to fix it up for said MOT.
When getting a wheel alignment a while back they suggested a rear drop link needed replacing or it would most likely fail its next MOT. No problem, cheap and easy, but as I lowered the car back down after, there was an almighty clunk. The rear ARB had completely snapped!
Luckily before the MOT, so I ordered an H&R ARB kit, drove with the snapped ARB to the garage and got them to fit the rear before the MOT.
I had a go myself but the bolts were so rusty and as soon as the socket slipped slightly, I wasn't going to risk stripping the head and decided that could be someone else's problem. The front I will get fitted at another time. Handling does seem noticeably better with the ARB and a non buggered drop link.
The new brakes were a bit of a pain but I’m really pleased how they've turned out. Side by side you can see the difference in size
Went with Basic Brembo discs from GSF and thought Id try Brembo HP2000s for the pads. I would have gone Ferodo but the Brembos came with a brake wear sensor. They didn't even fit, the connector was male and so was the one on the car so that was a bit pointless. Decided to cut the connector off the old pads and twist the wires. Very janky but at that point just wanted the car back on the road. Also went with HEL lines all round.
Rears
Passed the MOT with no advisories,but since the MOT, I’ve done about 2000 miles and the brakes are already squeaking. Only with a lot of weight or passengers and just the very last moment as I come to a stop. Not sure what to do here, definitely not because the pads are low, I’m open to suggestions.
Last weekend I did an oil change with Millers CFS 5W40 and a bosch filter. Topped up the screen wash with some genuine VW stuff, and again a bosch filter for the cabin. Also had a go at restoring the headlights again and gave it a good wash all round.
Next will be getting the Scirocco gearbox fitted along with a Helix clutch and LUK flywheel, and at the same time probably best to get the cam belt and waterpump done, we’re closing in on 120k. Once the clutch has broken in, slap on a new HPFP with VIS internals and finally book a slot at R-tech!