Got the car apart and ready to install the turbo and new clutch. So here's the question:

Is it easier to install the downpipe at the turbo outlet or install the downpipe and outlet as a unit (once everything else is in place)? Just wondering which set of fasteners are easier to reach with the turbo and transmission installed.

Thoughts?

 

Outlet is a pain in the *** to get to once in the car, put it on the turbo before install. Downpipe is easy to get to from underneath using some extensions and a swivel.

 

Damn! You bastards are quick.

Thanks!

 

I put the DP on after everything else. I use a swivel socket and extension for 2 bolts from the bottom. And a stubby wrench for the other 2 through the wheel well. PITA either way you do it!

 

Best way to do it is to put the turbo, outlet, and downpipe on the engine when it's on the engine stand and then put the whole thing into the car as a unit.

If you've already got the engine in the car, then yeah, you definitely want to put the turbo+outlet on the car together, then put on the DP (that's what FM says to do).

There's one outlet-to-DP nut that's a real PITA (on an NB at least), can't get a socket on it due to the curve of the DP. Needs an open-end stubby wrench, and there's only enough room to swing it 30 degrees, so you have to flip it over each time.

--Ian

 

I took my turbo out in 12-minutes yesterday, did the annual safety-wire/Resbond freshening, then reinstalled in under 90-minutes, lulz. I was also incredibly intoxicated for these activities on Affligem.

 

Got it. The downpipe install is gonna suck and there's no avoiding it. Thought it was worth askin anyway.

Thanks for the help.

I'm taking pictures as much as I can. If I'm not too lazy I'll post 'em when I finish.