Doing a matrix change

[mr burns]

Hi all
 my heating matrix has finally given up I read the how to on here and the comments on what a pain it can be so I rang a garage for a quote (good job I wS sat down) so my question is if I take my time and follow the how to is this a job that someone with alittle bit of spanner common sense can do, I,ve bypassed the matrix at mo so that's all good, any advice much appriciated

thanks

[tony_ack]

It's very doable. Took me 2 days, but that included sourcing and replacing the soundproofing in the floorpan, and cleaning up the mess made by the old matrix.

For a swap, set a day aside, though you could probably do it in a few hours. Hardest part for me was getting the airbox out - it is fiddly and annoying but you'll get there eventually.

[mr burns]

Thanks for the reply Tony looks like I,ll be busy this weekend

[mwep201081]

definitely one of them jobs where a buddy to help, not least to keep up flagging spirits, is needed

[X4MGS]

Read These threads and buy that pipe clamp tool....

It's Worth every penny....

http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=68989.0

http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=33251.0

This was the first major job I did on my lads Golf, took a while to do it but it's do-able for a numpty like me and tools need are limited....

Your hands will take a battering!!! 

[Thom89]

The lower heater box nut in the engine bay behind the exhaust, before attempting to undo it, tighten it a little, spray with WD40, then wire brush the threads, and spray again before undoing, with a bit of luck, it will then undo, rather than spinning or shearing..
Thom

[Thom89]

.

[clipperjay]

Since that guide I found putting a bit of grease on the bulkhead bolts before pushing it back into place helps to make it fit into the firewall bulkhead. I should up date some of those tips as some people tend to snap off the top or bottom bolts trying to get it back in LOL.
Good luck and you know you did a good job once your hands ar cut to shreads   

[cняis]

K-SEAL  

[X4MGS]

If you are going to update it then also point out that its much easier to put the top vents back in when you have removed the top dash screws.. It means the dash will flex so you can get the air vents in without such a struggle....