wiilydog

Just noticed it is face-lift model so more likely to have CR engine which is still a reliable engine.

Good choice as you can't beat an old school PD engine as with annual oil changes they run forever, I got rid of my PD140 at 200k and it was still running strong.

Try Kilen springs as i had good experience with them as you need ones specific to an estate as it sounds like you have either sport springs or saloon springs causing it to be too low.

Has the cylinders been examined for bore scoring? as the 1.5tsi uses a special plasma coating on the cylinder walls and if that is damaged the engine is basically toast.

If the springs are not badly corroded or sagging you could reuse them and put the funds towards b6 shocks. Mono tube will be superior compared to twin tube as it has digressive valving so it will feel stiff when cornering but soften up the faster you travel so it is still comfortable when cruising at higher speeds.

I would go for B6 with stock springs if you don't want to lower but after a handling upgrade as they will be just slightly firmer at lower speeds but offer tigher control and faster rebound, when pushing on.

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1015428070942022/?app=fbl Here's a interesting posting about using 0w 30 or even 5w 30 offering better protection for 1.5tsi engines compared to 0w 20 oil (See discussion for comments)

As long as it meets vag spec it should be fine as vw use thinner oils for better mpg and 0w 30 will offer better protection at high temperatures compared 0w 20

if they are original VAG wheels both alloys and steel wheels will use the same bolts so no need to buy different ones. You only need to be careful with after market alloys.

worn piston rings? does it consume any oil?

does the engine consume any oil between services? as thinking what would cause a cat to fail

Just source something 2nd hand on ebay as plenty of breakers out there

Here is a DIY guide for the oil separator replacement Volkswagen Golf Service & Repair Manual - Removing and installing oil separator - Crankcase breather

Yes was referring to breather valve. Glad it is all sorted now as sounds like the old parts were gummed up.

I'm surprised they did not change the pvc valve too on top of the valve cover as the parts you mentioned is just an oil separator, that filters oil from the fumes so the oil drains back into the engine.