Zach L
VR junkie
- Location
- Austin, TX
Makes sense, the standard FWD 02M could accept the Haldex input shaft too when modified.
An AWD swap would be much easier on these platforms than in the past as it's virtually a bolt in swap, with the exception of re wiring the back half properly with an R or A3 harness. In the MK4 I had, we did a Haldex swap but involved cutting out the floor pan and a whole lot of other BS that I don't want to remember. That car is still on the road to this day (BT 2.0T 20v)![]()
It is easier on the newer cars than on mk4 but it's still not a bolt in job. Yes there are bolt holes for the AWD subframe and suspension but you need to cut out and weld in a new hatch floor pan. The new one has a smaller spare tire well. You'll also need the AWD fuel tank with a second fuel sending unit, as the tank straddles the rear Haldex unit. Without these you can't bolt anything up. You'll also need a new downpipe/exhaust, transmission/driveshaft, wiring and control units. Even one of the front axles had to be replaced for Mk5/6 conversions.The VAQ diff is a hydraulically powered, electronically controlled proactive (vs reactive like normal LSDs) differential that is actually located outside of the transmission itself. It Bolts in-between the transmission and the right half-shaft, just like the yolk for the driveshaft on the Haldex unit. I don't think all GTI transmission casings have the bolt holes for these units to mount onto, only the PP and R transmissions.
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Sounds sick, got a link or any pics? I helped do one of these swaps back in 05'-06' on a MK4 with a 35R/1.8T in Virginia... it was not fun. I understand it was easier in the MK5/6 though. This one looks super easy like you said, all you will need is rear subframe, exhaust and driveline pieces out of any MK7 R or AWD A3/S3 and it should be nearly bolt in from there minus wiring and coding.
That said, still planning to do the swap on my Mk5. [emoji4]