Let's talk Haldex and controllers.

[RubAVeeDubDub]

So I've been reading a bit about different Haldex controllers and wondering about any one's experiences of them here in Oz?

I'm was also wondering both about how does the factory controller and diff setup work? I have no dea
Is the factory AWD setup on the 4motion Bora's (and R32s?) full-time/part-time awd? Are there any lsd's? What's the torque split? I am not finding too much information on the 4motion system but I read from the Haldex marketing tripe that the system controls the back diff on the basis of different readings given to the onboard ecu & diff controller from steering input sensors, g-force sensors and other sensors. Is this right ?

So far I've seen electrical ones from HPA Motorsports in the US at a nice pricley sum of $1300AU (plus shipping), custom-made manually controllable ones and even mechanical ones from SQS motorsports at a much more reasonable $200EU.

Has anyone tried these controllers? How much noticeable difference (if at all) do they make say over a top notch set of coils, a swaybar, better tyres/wheels etc ?
I like how planted my car feels through corners and the good heavy steering input but there is still a fair bit of understeer and the weight likes to crush down on my inside front wheels through corners. I was hoping a controller or an upgrade to the driveline/chassis rigidity would help that ?

Appreciate any insight on this. Would love to learn more!

Thanks!

[tigger73]

The upgraded Haldex controller will change the amount of power being transferred to the rear wheels.

As you said it looks at the vehicle sensors to determine how much power to transfer.

If you're interested in a HPA unit there's a group buy running up until the end of the month: Group Buy HPA Competition Haldex Controller

I can't comment on the effectiveness of the mechanical units, however a lot of people swear by the Haldex upgrade as it pretty much eliminates all understeer.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[greg32]

I have a controller on my MK5 R32. I also fitted the switch to change the setting from Stock-Sports-Race. It pushes through corners a bit harder with less FWD character and a more neutral to RWD feel. Also worth changing the LCAs and knuckles to alloy items as the weight reduction is very noticeable and keeps the tyres planted better at the front. I was also able to soften the shocks with the alloy bits fitted.

[h100vw]

I have a controller on my MK5 R32. I also fitted the switch to change the setting from Stock-Sports-Race. It pushes through corners a bit harder with less FWD character and a more neutral to RWD feel. Also worth changing the LCAs and knuckles to alloy items as the weight reduction is very noticeable and keeps the tyres planted better at the front. I was also able to soften the shocks with the alloy bits fitted.

The MK4 and MKZ5 haldex systems are different and there's no switching on the MK4. I could be wrong but I am reasonably sure there's no alloy option for LCAs on the MK4, my S3 has cast ones.

Gavin

[tigger73]

Mk4 R32 / M1 TT Gen.1 Haldex units are out of production for the moment.

You will have to search around for anyone with stock on the Gen.1 units (HPA are out of stock), as VW has reported a global shortage on the Gen.1 going forward.

VW obviously supplies Haldex (they manufacture these for HPA) with inventory for their "flashed" aftermarket modules, but they are also required to keep aside inventory for general repairs / replacements of OE units in the service sector. Apparently this inventory number has dipped so low from aftermarket Sport (blue) and Competition (stealth) units, that VW is concerned they won't even have enough for their dealer service departments.

So you'll likely have trouble getting a Gen 1 Haldex for the Mk4 R32 / Mk1 TT/S3 unless you find one second hand/ebay etc.

There is a notification list if/when these units come back into stock if you're interested in one of these controllers.