There have been quite a few postings concerning the subject of DIY spring installation so I thought I'd try to gather up what was helpful to me in one central location for future brave DIY'ers.
The below write-up by "rs4-380" (vwvortex) is well done and should give you a pretty good idea what you're in for:
http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?4331031
The below follow-up by "Spacecadet_CC " has some great information with more helpful photos and excerpts from "ItsDubC" and "tXfactor":
http://www.audizine.com/forum/showth...spring+install
More good photos and tips, from "CO AVANT":
http://www.audizine.com/forum/showth...ght=OE%20Sport
I used the above information to help me do my spring installation this past weekend and wanted to share some of my thoughts:
* This is not a job for the novice or faint-of-heart
* One person can do this job... I did the job myself but the next day I had bruises all over my arms from fighting with suspension components, so I recommend you enlist the help of a buddy if available
* Allow 6-8 hrs and take your time
-Front-
_Make sure to disconnect the brake/sensor lines from their brackets (multiple locations) to allow enough slack to accommodate the suspension drop
_My car had no level sensor (not sure what models the sensor applies to... ADS, auto-level headlights?)
_Two 16mm combo wrenches will be needed to remove swaybar endlinks but 5/8 standard will work just fine, if you already have them
_Two 18mm combo wrenches will come in handy when removing the lower strut extension/pinch bolt
_Removal of the lower strut extension is a real PITA but is a critical step if you intend to get the strut assembly out from underneath the wheel well without damaging other components (brake/sensor lines, paint work etc.) or scaring your neighbors with the ensuing foul language
_Don't forget to trim the bumpstops; your new springs should have information on the amount to remove (STaSIS Touring springs have 1/2" removed from the fronts)
-Rear-
_Recommend removing the shocks... gives you a few extra inches of subframe movement, which will allow easier removal of the springs
_While the shock is out, trim the bumpstops; your new springs should have information on the amount to remove (STaSIS Touring springs have 1" removed from the rears)
_Make sure to disconnect the brake/sensor lines from their brackets (multiple locations) to allow enough slack to accommodate the suspension drop
_My car had no level sensor (not sure what models the sensor applies to... ADS, auto-level headlights?)
_Compressing the rear springs for removal is very difficult as there is not much room to maneuver a spring compressor; I used cargo straps... this is dangerous so please be careful. Similar to this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fyU96hiI4E
Thanks to the other guys who have taken the time to provide their write-ups and helpful hints... it helped me a great deal!
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