I only had to get under the car to install the eqt pipe kit. All turbo work was top size.
That said, everything is in and driving. It's rainy in Portland right now(ya don't say) so anything about 4k rpm will start spinning.
No leaks, no check engine lights, about the only mishap with the install was the 'I' on my front GTI badge went missing... no idea. I took the whole thing off until I can get a replacement lol
I had been slightly worried as it kept smelling like coolant as the car warmed up, but I'm assuming it's just burning off the downpipe where it spilled.
Drove a few miles to get it up to temp and filled the overflow again.
To sum up my install: the charge pipe kit was the hardest part for me.
6 hour total install time
1 extra of testing and coolant filling
This was in my garage with a jack and jack stands. I do have some years of experience on cars, but anyone that is confident in their abilities should be able to tackle this in 6-8 hours.
I did mine two nights ago.
I concur 6-8 with a buddy is about spot on. Couple tips to everyone:
Take mounting bracket completely off (mine was seized on from factory ugh)
Disc. oil return from the BLOCK, wait till off to do the one on the turbo.
Leave studs in.
Very important:
Slightly overfill oil into turbo. Wait 15-20 minutes for it to seep through. Unplug injector harness and crank 2-3 sets of 6 cranks at the end after wastegate adaptation.
Coolant will burp while idling, squeeze main coolant hose to help air get out. It takes awhile to bleed. Drive a little bit with heat on. Come back and do it again. When that hose starts to get hot to the touch you're about there.
Make sure to replace all gaskets and seals. Its about as hard as a direct fit intercooler install that requires cutting/trimming (cough, cts, cough). Aint bad atall though.