VTDA General install info
Stock 225,180, 3.2MK4 (Mk5 below) or VW :
1) Remove the stock box and fender mounted snorkel inlet (see picture below). Squeeze the fitting of the 1" secondary air injection hose to remove from airbox side (not shown in pic below, and not present on the 3.2)
2) Stretch the provided foam filter over the Secondary air injection pump line that was removed from the airbox side. Zip tie that line out of the way. If you have a mini-breather, twist onto the existing flange. This air line is not critical,(again, not necessary on the 3.2)
3) Lubricate the filter flange and clamp on to the MAF. On the 225 the MAF will enter the filter flange 1" and not all the way to the MAF flange as before. This is norma as there is a lip inside the filter neckl. 180's can be inserted all the way into the filter. Orientation of the box
should be with the seam out of sight and the Bracket swing arm approximately
parallel to the strut mount point. Depending on the orientation of your Turbo inlet pipe the VTDA may rest only on the bracket (Movement is acceptable as the engine will move on it's mounts). There is a foam pad included if orientation results in the VTDA end contacting the chassis.
4) Bolt the swing arm to the strut mount using the supplied Hex wrench, 6mm bolt and washer.
If a Boost Machine is being used, mount the swing arm UNDER the BM bracket.
5) Align Box and tighten, Try to insure a straight inlet path from MAF to filter flange by moving the VTDA on the adjustable bracket. Tighten down when aligned.
6) Be sure to tighten hose clamps and re-attach MAF plug.
7) If you are installing the low profile trim, simply remove the stock gasket, press on the new trim, and cut at the end to size.
The original airbox serves to attenuate noise as well as filter air. You will notice more intake sounds from the VTDA best described as "Breathy". You should also notice quicker throttle response and faster turbo spool as a lot of the OEM airbox restrictions have been eliminated. While it is very rare, you may get a check engine light following installation. This is usually an indicator that your MAF was on its last legs and needs replacement. The increased airflow of the TTDA simply pushed it over the edge. If you notice a sound like blowing over a coke bottle at partial throttle, this is generally an indication that your DV is in need of replacement. You simply could not hear the noise before due to the sound deadening design of the stock box. This is a good opportunity to upgrade to a more performance oriented unit like a Forge or equivalent.
Mark 5 R32:
The VTDA is supplied with a sturdy bracket and all hardware.
1) Remove stock airbox including base
2) Attach bracket to the chassis mount point as shown in the foto albums for the MK5. The bottom side of the bracket is marked.
3) Clamp to MAF and attach VTDA to the bracket. The adjustable tab should allow for plenty of flexibility. Flex or bend the Main bracket slightly if necessary
NOTE: The US R32's have a "Noise Tube" coming off the intake hose and bolted to the firewall area. This exists solely for Noise attenuation and is not critical. Consider removing and capping that inlet. It does restrict movement of the MAF connection somewhat but does not appear to be a major issue.
Cleaning
Non force fed, you're probably good for 15-20K or so. K&N's actually work
a little better with some miles on them
To remove filter, take the box out of the car, remove the vinyl edging from
the filter side and the whole endcap with filter attached can be removed. If
the cap is too snug to remove easily simply insert a long screwdriver into the
V-stack end and tap lightly around the circumference of the filter baseplate.
Later versions will have 2 set-screws into the tube on the filter side. Remove these to remove the filter modue. Follow the K&N procedures for cleaning, Lightly oil, and re-assemble. K&N
cleaning kits can be sourced at most any auto parts store that sells filters.
Official K&N directions
here.
When reassembling, the Edging will probably have lost some of it's tension...Simply work your thumb and forefinger along the length and squeeze the Edging closed again. There are aluminum "U" shapped grippers in there, and this will re-tension the trim..