Application: Volkswagen Golf Mk7 and Mk7.5 rear exhaust tunnel position
Recommended equipment: Vehicle lift or level axle stands rated for the vehicle, wheel chocks, suitable sockets and torque wrench, trim or undertray tools where required, cleaning brush and eye protection.
Safety first: Work only on a cool, stable vehicle supported by approved lifting equipment. These instructions are an overview; the current OEM workshop procedure and torque data take priority.
Procedure
1. Park the vehicle on level ground, apply the parking brake and allow the exhaust and underbody components to cool fully.
2. Raise the vehicle using the approved jacking points and support it securely. A workshop lift is strongly recommended so the car remains level and the underbody can be inspected safely.
3. Identify the intended brace position and compare the G54 component with the original mounting points before removing any parts. Confirm that the supplied brace and hardware match the vehicle.
4. Remove the original pressed brace. Support any nearby exhaust section if removing a fastener could allow it to move.
5. Clean the mounting faces and threaded holes. Check for corrosion, damaged threads, distorted brackets, previous accident repairs or loose subframe hardware. Rectify any defect before proceeding.
6. Offer the G54 brace into position with all fasteners fitted finger tight. Do not force the brace into alignment and do not use the bolts to pull a misaligned component against the chassis.
7. Check clearance to the exhaust, heat shields
8. Tighten the fasteners progressively and evenly to the current vehicle manufacturer torque specification for the original mounting location.
9. Lower the vehicle and listen for contact or vibration during a short low speed road test.
10. After the first heat cycle and an initial road check, inspect the brace, fasteners and exhaust clearance again.