'96 VR6 - Auto to Manual [Build]

[MilkIsYum]

Started to tackle the timing chain/thermostat/crack pipe/water pump maintenance/replacement



Started to polish a spare manifold:

[HaydEn]

Good work on the diy!

[Silver dub]

Progressing well

[MilkIsYum]

Thanks guys!

Yesterday I tackled the timing chains. It was a bit scary knowing the potential risks, but after reassembling everything (with the new parts of course) all the alignment markers seemed to be spot on.

Side covers and upper chain removed:



Today I redid the crackpipe/thermostat housing, everything went well. Definitely glad I did it, here's a photo of new vs. old of the crackpipe:

[stephen8512]

wow...big difference. Did you go for the OEM one or did you upgrade to a billet item

[MilkIsYum]

wow...big difference. Did you go for the OEM one or did you upgrade to a billet item

I just went for another OEM one.

[MilkIsYum]

Have had a long break, I'm now back am back at it over summer.

I had a terrible time trying to get the axles out of the hubs. Had the specialty tool which clamps via the wheel bolts and drives the a bolt through the centre to push the axle out. Long story short, it didn't work. Decided to remove the whole assembly instead.

The brake pads were a bit tight removing them. Is there any way to open the callipers up a little? I imagine the others will be a tight fit.



I replaced the water pump as well as a precautionary measure.

New vs. Old:




Now I'm going to start pulling out the manual gear from the donor car. Does anyone know of some good diagrams for the vacuum hoses? I've had a few snap and want to re-run the lines.

Thanks! Happy to be active again!

[MilkIsYum]

Removing the manual transmission:



Removing the driver side axle:



It was a long reach:



Pulled out through the passenger wheel well:



After a thorough clean:



The clutch:



Flywheel:

[MilkIsYum]

I'm wondering if the flywheel/clutch are suitable to re-use? It was allegedly installed <1000km's ago and from my knowledge it all looks to be in great condition. Are there any red flags to look for?

Thanks

edit:

A profile photo of the clutch:

[MilkIsYum]

So I've been slowly chipping away getting bits and pieces done.

It's gone off to Volkwerke to have a once over and see what else needs to be done. Hopefully it's nothing too painful.