Boatman1

Had the same thing happen to me, the garage replaced the whole alternator which was the original 2006.

Think this is going to become an increasing issue for Mk1 owners so yes. I would like to know how long it took you to do it.

Had to replace the original matrix on my 2014 Octavia 46,000 miles because it was blocked. I read on a VW forum that this was caused by corrosion within the VW cooling system also that this corrosion leached silica out of the coolant hence the silica bag in the filler reservoir to prolong the life of the coolant. I replaced it with a Nissens matrix which apparently has wider veins . Does anyone know whether the silica bag is still required in the coolant reservoir, was it just the matrix that rusts or are other parts of the cooling system prone to rust? Apparently this is a problem throughout the VW range from 2013-2017 anyone else encountered this problem?

I have the B12 set up lowers the car 25mm handling is pin point perfect would recommend. I don't see the point in scrimping on a major item that will increase your enjoyment of driving the vehicle. TBH I don't find the ride that hard and I have a bad back.

Resprayed my sills last year last year (am not a bodywork guy) and look good also the rear arch where the two panels meet had some bubbles in the paint from rust.. Used 2 part clearcoat in a tin which I got from the USA expensive but gives a nice hard finish. also got the AC system recharged, working well and changed the gear box oil which has improved the gear changes. Car also got a 180bhp remap, Second hand Audi TT discs and calipers in front, new Bilstein 2 matched struts and springs, new top mounts and RARB all recommended by the guys on this site. The car runs like a dream and the handling is pin point accurate. 06 plate thanks for the advice guys, Sepulchrave was one of them. PS Also gave the wheels a fresh powder coating gun grey it's a black vrs. Have had the car since 12 months old. Had a weird breakdown 2 months ago, the wheel on the alternator parted company with the main body. It was the original part.

Has anyone changed from 16 to 17 inch alloys and what was your driving experience/preference. VRs drivers particularly.

If discovered in an accident it's an insurance fail too.

No one seems to mention how the vast majority of electricity is produced, China, India and much of USA is fossil fuel plus the power involved in battery making from mining to manufacture to distribution is huge. The day I take this nonsense seriously is the day they ban all motorsport including the F1 circus.

I cleaned mine with 150 grit down to 2000 grit sandpaper till all the scratches were out then used two part clearcoat on them good as new and the two part clearcoat doesn't haze, it's expensive but worth it. You will have plenty clearcoat left so plan to do other touch ups on the car at the same time so that you don't waste it.

Try silicon spray on the lock. Condensation inside the car is a common problem poor door seals. There is a guy on u tube that uses rope/twine to tighten the seals which looks like a cheap feasible alternative to the problem.

Many many thanks duck.

I had the same issue after using a rad sealant for a small leak. The sealant gummed up the matrix, after it was flushed problem solved plenty heat back in the cabin.

Are you a mechanic? It's a brave attempt if not. When you say noisy how noisy? Can it be made quieter? I was expecting the price to be more. I need to consider the cost of another map if I need to replace the clutch/flywheel later. Thanks for all the info.

I haven't AaronRK I lack the technology I can only tell you how good the suspension feels, if it's looks you're after then sepulchrave is probably correct.

Oops my bad thanks Wino you are correct gearbox oil it is.

Duck, thanks for the info if you don't mind my asking how much did the SMF & SRE cost you including fitting and where did you get it from? I believe the Turbo I have been quoted is for a reconditioned Garrett 1756 £695 plus fitting, Darkside down pipe £175 race catalyst £83 (wanted to stay legal) and airtec intercooler £412 plus custom map £375 the quote is from Ecotune in Glasgow, I went to see them. I liked the people and their set up and checked the prices which all seem to be in line. My only dilemma is how far to go, as far as I can tell at the moment my clutch and flywheel feel Ok, the car has been well driven on long journeys and never near the redline, I feel there's quite a bit left in the clutch.

Got the Skoda dealer to do it to make sure if there were any problems I would have some come back and to ensure the correct oil was used. Apparently its a case of removing the drain plug and leaving it to thoroughly drain. The plug is magnetised to attract any loose metallic bits They don't recommend flushing the system which is what I originally asked them to do though having watched some u tube videos on the subject the consensus seemed to be that it's not a good idea to flush it.. The gear box oil breaks down over time. It doesn't sound like a difficult job as long as you don't strip the drain plug fitting and fill it with the correct oil. Sorry I've no video on it. I'm sure there are others on here who have done it for themselves or do it as mechanics. Open up a new topic requesting info.

Thank you both for your insight. Saint, who makes the GTB1756 you recommend?

Have been recommended to install an airtec intercooler and darkside downpipe I asked the map guy about the clutch his response was they would lengthen out the power curve so that it doesn't wreck the clutch, I take that to mean more power in the mid range.

Are there any issues/common problems with using a hybrid turbo on the vrs, I read somewhere that battery power can be one issue. Any advice would be gratefully accepted.

Put Bilstein B12's on mine lowers by 25mm with new top mounts lovely ride.

Possibly 5G relay apparently it only works over short distances.

I replaced the hydraulic oil in my 2006 vrs gear shift now very smooth, mines done 106,000.

I have fitted Mk1 Audi TT discs and calipers clearance about 3mm work well, also replaced the fluid after 12 years and new pads. is one of you pistons jamming? that might explain the intermittent nature of it. If so you can get a piston refurb kit for £10 on line. Have never heard of carriers or calipers warping discs yes.

Have a 2006 vrs get 56mpg at steady 60mph on cruise control. Car has a stage 1 map 165bhp.