T5 4motion, Just how capable are they as a 4WD

[RhosneigrGaz]

I'm currently trying to source an LSD for my 2wd T5.

I'd love a 4 motion but have they are really expensive and ive gone too far with my van to start again!

Im running 225 75 16 AT2's and think the old tyre pressure trick is gonna be my best friend! Need a decent 12v compressor now!

[winchmeup]

Come on Bertie. You know we are waiting for the report

[BertieT5]

Still not fitted!!!! argh!!!

[winchmeup]

You'll probably end up fitting it the night before you leave for your next trip. Thats how it usually goes for me.

[BertieT5]

OK its fitted... well was last week, but only got to test it out a little today since its so bloody wet and horrible in Perth today.
Since its not a back to back comparison i'm not 100% sure on the accuracy on my results.

In the we taking off from the lights at slippery intersections with quite a bit of boot, it was noticeable a small bit of wheel spin then a slingshot effect in the launch as the drive split hard to the rear. It seemed to get better power to the ground with less traction control interference.

Driving around normally i have noticed no difference, except sometimes my gear changes are a but clunky. I think easing the clutch out slower on the gear change has helped this for normal driving.

No test in sand or other surfaces yet. Will report once I have.

On a different note, My mechanic who fitted the controller for me mentioned my splash guard/sump guard is severely damaged and I should get a replacement. I'm thinking about an Ali heavy duty bash guard. Does anybody know who in Australia might make or sell such an item???

[Splitn]

Bertie,
Here is a sump guard listed on ebay
I think it is Trakka selling it.

Seikel Engine Guard VW T5 in Mount Kuring-Gai, NSW | eBay

[BertieT5]

Hey Splitn thanks!! I got in touch with Allan at Trakka and he will sort me out when I get to Sydney in a few weeks! Cheers

[SvenOz]

Hi winchmeup, I have an 05 model with now retro fitted rear Diff-Lock was a lot of work - will need a spline cutting machine & a C N C to machine to bore the holes in the casing to hold the fork to engage the sliding dog, also all the factory parts + a new right side short shaft from the diff. While I was doing all this I had took off the drive-shaft off from engine/gearbox & the rear wheels so I could drive it around as a 2 W D model as it is not a quick fix, as far as I know NO kit is available, I have found D/lock an advantage on steep bad track climbs & boggy rough tracks - Beach-work will be best sorted with soft tyres - big mud treads only dig you in very quick (bald tyres are real good - forgiving a little wheel spin (road tread is ok) You did not say what gear/box you had? if standard you may be better off with 235/70-16 as Trekka use,they are a little fatter with a smaller rolling dia. Your 225/75 R 16 will need the 'Auto Seikel' lowered gear set as I have - this gives you more "grunt" especially for off road - have a look on the net for demonstrations, I have air bags all round - another lot of prototype work especially for the front, for the rear the Air Bag Man does a kit for the rear - go for the 3 convolution with longer shocks - you may need some diff frame drop down spacers to save your C V's from damage at full height operation! For beach work - a snatch strap + max-tracks and a good 12v compressor will be a good investment, happy driving T5 Double off road. P S. added D L will not connect to the Computer or Haldex.

Hi there. New to the forum, and currently shopping for second hand T5 4Motion, proposing to instal Seikel springs, and offload (AT) tyres. Am very curious about your difflock retro fit. I assume the easier (and more expensive) way is to pick up a second hand diff with difflock, perhaps shipped from Europe? I see that yours is not connected to the electronics. How is it actuated. Would love to have more details as the second hand ones with diff lock are quite rare, and retrofitting would be a good option even if it was more of an old school, fully manual diff lock only.