VW Golf ALH Turbo: Top or Bottom Removal?

Hello everyone,

I just got back from vacation, and as usual, something needs to be repaired.
"The VTG needs to be cleaned now, which I know how to do. However, I haven't personally installed or removed a turbocharger before. The VW repair manual doesn't provide much information on the procedure, and neither does the forum or Google when I search for answers to my questions or guidance on planning the repair."

- Is the ATL/bending unit (a component) primarily disassembled from below, meaning that the intake manifold remains attached to the cylinder head? Or does the intake manifold also need to be removed in order to, for example, access all the bending screws? And can everything then be unscrewed "from above"?

- The Volkswagen repair manual states that the right driveshaft needs to be removed. Is this necessary, or is it possible to remove the turbo without doing that?

Do I need a lift, or can I get enough work done in my home garage using ramps without getting frustrated?

- Besides the new seals and nuts for mounting the turbocharger, are there any other spare parts, small items, or specialized tools that you might need but wouldn't necessarily think of right away?

- Are there any specific things to keep in mind when installing or removing this part, or can I just go ahead and do it myself, especially considering my automatic transmission?

Thank you in advance for your help.

Bavarian.

Hello Bavarian!

Okay, I've already done this procedure several times: twice in my own garage using ramps, and once at my brother-in-law's place on a pit. The first time I had help, but the other two times I did the work myself.
You can remove the turbocharger assembly along with the exhaust manifold by taking it upwards. The drive shafts can be left in place, even though they may often obstruct access during the work.
I would definitely recommend removing the intake manifold to create more space. It might be possible without doing so, but it will be a very difficult and awkward job.
It's important to have good tools. Large and small ratchets with various length extensions, as well as long sockets, are essential.
I wish you much success.

Regards,
Alex.

HI,

I would also try it from the top (I did it on the G3 and then didn't do it on the Leon because the VTG suddenly started working well).
I would also remove the suction nozzle because it usually comes loose quickly, and then you have significantly more space.

I still have some spare parts for this project.
4 crimping sleeves.
8 countersunk screws.
1. Exhaust manifold.
3 screws - turbocharger to exhaust pipe.

These were originally intended for the Leon, but are now no longer needed.

If you're interested, please send me a private message.

Okay, please provide the German text you would like me to translate into English. I will only provide the translation.

Hello donalexo and dieselmartin,

Thank you for the advice; I will report back on my progress after next weekend.

@Dieselmartin - Thanks for the offer, but I've already stocked up on parts.

Greetings.