Removing Struts, BPR and BPS

[sre2094]

Are there any special tools required to remove the struts or is it pretty much unbolt and change? Also can someone tell me what the differance in the engine codes BPR and BPS, thanks for any help.

[DZLBUG]

Make sure you replace these components as well.
2x Strut Mounts
2x Strut Bearings
2x Top Strut Nut
2x Strut Stretch Bolt/Pinch Nut

2x Shock Mounts
4x Shock Mount Bolts
2x Lower Shock Stretch Bolt/Pinch Nut

Start with the drivers side front, doing the easy side first will allow you to see what needs to happen when doing the pass side. Disconnect the swaybar to let the LCA drop far enough to get the strut out. On the pass. side, loosen (dont remove) the two subframe bolts on that side and lower the subframe to get the strut out. The rears are super easy. Put some blue loctite on the threads of the shock rod when you put the mounts on.

As far as tools, you'll need these Metalnerd tools:
Part MN3424 - Strut Spreader Bit
Part MN2122 - Specialty Double 21 & 22 mm Strut Nut Sockets.

Certain deep offset wrenches may work in place of the Strut Nut Socket tool (but you'll have to gauge the torque you're putting on them), you just need to be able to counterhold the strut shaft with an allen wrench while you torque the upper nut. Metalnerd's tool allows you to use a torque wrench as long as you use it right.

DO NOT USE impact tools when reassembling. Hand tools and torque wrench only, especially the top strut nut. Shops will often blast them on with an impact in an effort to not use the strut nut tool that allows them to counterhold the strut shaft with an allen wrench...the result of this is broken strut bearings.

An alignment afterwards is recommended...but it doesn't have to happen immediately. I did my suspension (struts, shocks, VR6 springs and 2" lift) last fall and still have not got it aligned yet. Car tracks fine and tire wear isn't any worse than before. I need to get my tie rods replaced before it can be aligned.

I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND purchasing a paper Bentley manual if you do not already own one. Sometimes there are shortcuts around some of the procedures (like dropping the subframe instead of pulling the CV axle on the pass side for strut removal) but they are absolutely worth their weight in gold for most jobs and all the torque specs are there and easy to find. They can be found easily on Amazon: Amazon.com: Volkswagen New Beetle: Service Manual : 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, Including Convertible: Bentley Publishers: Books

[DZLBUG]

Isn't it great when you go out of your way to help someone and then they don't even respond?

[sre2094]

Originally Posted by DZLBUG

Isn't it great when you go out of your way to help someone and then they don't even respond?

My bad I have just been so busy, I am grateful for the help, I just cant sit and watch the screen all the time.

[sre2094]

See why I have been busy

[hestersu]

Good lord! What the heck happened? And did it happen on your watch or did you buy it this way?

[sre2094]

Originally Posted by hestersu

Good lord! What the heck happened? And did it happen on your watch or did you buy it this way?

I bought the one with the black top first and it had damage that I could not see when i bought it, I then bought the one that had the engine fire to use it for parts. This is almost mind blowing but I will get there and complete one and part out the other, wish me luck and thanks to anyone that has answered any of my questions.

[hestersu]

I do wish you luck. I'm impressed that anyone has the vision to resurrect a broken beetle. I hope you update this thread often with your progress.

[salsa-man]

Just curious - you have any info as to what caused the fire in the one?

[sre2094]

Originally Posted by salsa-man

Just curious - you have any info as to what caused the fire in the one?

The best I can tell it looks like it may of started below the windshield on the passenger side, I may be wrong. The motor is still good I think, it just melted all of the plastic and wiring harness. I will try and keep this updated when I get time to post, it all looks like hell now but I will have one ready shortly and alot of extra parts.

[sre2094]

Does anyone know if the air bag sensor and module has to chaned if the drivers airbag has been deployed.

[sre2094]

I have finally finished my project here are a few pics, also to anyone that has helped me along the way, I must say thank you. This was a major project and I am so happy that it turned out the way it has.

[The Cheat]

hey, you selling the burnt-up engine?

need a spare block for a project with my project (2001 wagen with a 2.5).

looks great man, i'm impressed. really.

[sre2094]

Yes I most likely will give me a few days and I will shoot a pm.

[salsa-man]

WOW! Congrats! It really looks good.

[sre2094]

Originally Posted by salsa-man

WOW! Congrats! It really looks good.

Thanks alot it was really stressful and fun at the same time.