Project TDI
We've had the pleasure of driving our 2009 VW Jetta TDI for almost five months and 4000 miles, and while it's a great grocery-getter, it's about time we got serious with it.
Up until now we've enjoyed its ridiculous torque, great mileage and capable handling, but we've grown tired of the many concessions to civility the stock car has; soft suspension, quiet exhaust and a 4x4-like ride height.
We've got big plans for Project TDI and probably the best place to start on the road to a better Jetta was uprated suspension.
Since the TDI is slated to be a street car that could see the occasional track day, we wanted a suspension system that was supple enough for the street but up to the task for the occasional track jaunt.
We're taking it old skool;...
We're taking it old skool; in the driveway, on jackstands, using hand tools and a few buddies
After some hunting we decided that a set of KW Variant 3 coilovers would do the trick, even though they cost a considerable $2150. However, these suspenders offer three-way adjustability, stainless bodies and can lower the car over 2".
One feature that stood out was the KW's independently adjustable damping. When you tweak the 14-way adjustable compression, it won't affect the rebound. Admittedly, this is way more than a street car needs, but it's always nice to over-engineer a project in preparation for any opportunity that might arise.
When working on Project TDI, we took our time to re-acquaint ourselves with its suspension design. Although simple in form, the new independent rear is great in function. Taking our time, the installation took roughly five hours and, with the exception of an air gun, it was completed with regular hand tools.
It was fun taking the wrenching out of a shop and onto a driveway; we did the build on jack stands with some friends and a few brews. Quite frankly, we can't think of a better way to spend a Sunday (OK, well maybe with Jenna Jameson, but that ain't gonna happen!). So read along as we head down the road to a betta Jetta.
The KW Variant 3 coilovers...
The KW Variant 3 coilovers are almost too pretty to install. Look at the stainless steel bodies and complete adjustability (Note, the rear springs aren't in the photo but are included in the kit)
While we didn't list them here, it's always a good idea to tighten all bolts to factory torque specs. And if you plan to do this job yourself, head to www.eurotuner.com for an expanded version of this step-by-step guide.
Quick Take:
Once the KW V3 coilovers were installed, the car sat much lower and the ride quality was significantly firmer. Without being harsh, the car now corners without its usual wallowing, and it encounters potholes without bottoming the dampers. We'd say the KWs were money well spent, and can't wait to test them once Project TDI gets some new wheels and tires (we already have BBS CHs awaiting new rubber). As we mentioned before, the car is only lowered about halfway on the spring perches, which means we could go considerably lower. To preserve the proper A-arm angles and maintain good handling characteristics, we're not going to go any lower... yet!
That's a wrap for this month, but stay tuned; we have big plans for this car.