Michael

I took the turbo out from the top. You will however need access from underneath to access the rubber pipes that connect to the turbo and also to disconnect the exhaust pipe and some other bolts.

I did the job with the car sat on ramps underneath the front suspension arms, leaving enough room underneath to access and still be able to lean over the engine bay to access from the top.

If I did the job again I would see if there is any special tool to compress the pipe clips. It's easy using mole grips where there is space, but took a long time for the pipe clips at the turbo as they kept slipping due to the angle.

I purchased a new exhaust manifold gasket - about

Hi Russell,

Thanks for the advice, I spent 7 hours on Sunday removing the turbo and cleaning it up. Most of the time was spent trying to get the hose fixings back in place. My turbo was filthy and the variable vains had seized, I spent 20 minutes cleaning it with a softbrush and brake cleaner.

The cars is like new again although I'm noticing more lag than I used to, but asume this is might be due to the fact the vains were stuck and the turbo boost was always high.

It was definitley worth the effort (and blood) and would suggest that others try it if they are suffering the same symptoms.

It also worth having a spare pair of hands to assist if possible.

Thank again for the assistance:thumbup:

Michael

I think this one of the best 'how to fix a...' post's ever.

You two need to get together and write a detailed description of what you did.

This sticking turbo problem seems to effect quite a lot of people on this forum and I am sure everyone is grateful for the sound advice.

Pah, I didnt write it!

Well done though, done far more than most VAG techs would have.

Sorry Lummox for no giving you some of the credit!

It was you who gave them the great advice and confidence to do it in the first place.

Sorry Lummox forgot to say thanks to you as well:O , your advice was much appreciated.

I will try to put a how to together ASAP, as most people with fairly good mechanical skills and a decent socket set could save themselves a fortune. The hardest part of doing this was getting those bloody pipe clips back on.

I