mishu 0 Posted August 28, 2006 So, I managed to take the front subframe out of the GTi, sandblast and paint it so that it now looks like this: Now, here's my plan, but I'd really like to hear from someone who's done this before (so that I don't hit a dead end along the way). I plan to keep (from my current 1.1 base model) -Front stub axle pivot -Front wheel hubs and brake setup I'd like to order: -new wishbones (bushes were worn on the old ones -- incl. the ireplaceable one) -screws/nuts that I stripped from the old one -new braking hoses (braided ones aren't available locally, so I'm thinking to order from Pug) Now, a few questions: 1. When I sandblasted the front subframe, I inevitably got some sand in the inner cavity of the frame (from below). It probably removed some paint, but I can't get in there with a brush. What should I use to prevent it from rusting (although it's been like that for about a week now and is showing no signs of rust.. but I don't want to take any chances)? 2. From what I've been reading on the forum, I assume the gear levers won't fit, since my car is a base model (1.1 5-door GR), and the subframe (and lever mount) is from a 1.6 GTi. What part should I order instead so that it does fit? 3. While the front subframe is off, I'm thinking of cleaning the front section of the underside of the car, since who knows when I'll get another chance. I'm thinking of using a degreaser, removing any rust or (I hope there isn't any/much), and then painting over a layer of the tougher anti-chip paint. I'd really appreciate any advice you have, as I want to order the parts as soon as possible and get to work. P.S. On a side note, while following the guide to refurb the rear beam, I'm stuck at the Torx nuts holding the torsion bars. They are corroded (sp?) and the head is also worn (so that the T30 head is slipping). Any advice? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mishu 0 Posted August 29, 2006 UPDATE: Do the GTi shocks/springs fit the base setup? I'm thinking of putting those in at least until I finish refurbing the GTi bits. Does the GTi shock plate (the part which holds it against the car) fit the base model? I'd really appreciate answers to these and the previous questions, as I'd like to order the parts this week. Please... Also, I managed to take the 2 worn Torx bolts out of the rear beam (chisel). Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
nick 3 Posted August 29, 2006 What is it that your actually trying to do? Nick Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mishu 0 Posted August 29, 2006 I got hold of a 1.6 GTi to strip for parts. I got (among other things) the front subframe and the rear beam off of it. It didn't have shocks/springs/hubs. I'd like to put the GTi subframe (which is sandblasted/painted) on and buy matching GTi suspension. The same for the rear beam (which I'm now refurbing as per guide). I want to know whether I can use the hubs from the base model (F:discs/R:drums) with the subframe/beam, and what other changes I have to make (gear level, etc.). I've posted related to this before, but these are the questions I don't have an answer to (yet, hopefully). Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
tom_m 0 Posted August 29, 2006 sam's done this, he'll be able to tell you i reckon Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
DaveW 6 Posted August 29, 2006 2. From what I've been reading on the forum, I assume the gear levers won't fit, since my car is a base model (1.1 5-door GR), and the subframe (and lever mount) is from a 1.6 GTi. What part should I order instead so that it does fit? You will have to move and reweld the gear pivot post as the 1.1 down pipe is where that goes. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mishu 0 Posted August 29, 2006 You will have to move and reweld the gear pivot post as the 1.1 down pipe is where that goes. Any details on where to move it? Should I use the 1.1 one or the one already on the beam (1.6)? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest Nuno205Rallye Posted August 30, 2006 There's 2 solutions to your problem... Or you find a front subframe from an Euro Rallye, wich has got the pivot in the right place, or you measure where your original pivot is in the original subframe, cut it out and weld it to your GTI subframe and cut out the GTI pivot . Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mishu 0 Posted August 30, 2006 Well, I already have the 1.6 GTi subframe, so I'll stick with that. I'll just 'transplant' the base pivot to the GTi beam then. Thanks! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
