Today I was able to install S3 intercooler for Tig. I did it solo with in about 6 hours time and without too much struggling. Tig has bit more ground clearance than GTI s so I did not have to jack it up during the swap. I got two hoses with the S3 intercooler but one of them (pre intercooler/ turbo side) one is too short for Tig. So I used stock hose but had to cut about half an inch to clear the swelled area of the hose and to get the perfect length. For the other side of the intercooler, I could use the S3 hose easily. I used APR and other internet resources as a reference and even though they are for GTIs, still closely relevant for Tigs.
Some pictures of the install.
Front bumper removed.
Water is leaking because I forgot clamp the headlight washer line!
Bumper bar, headlights, and intercooler supporting bracket removed.
No need to remove the hood unlocking wire in Tigs. Just leave the supporting bracket away with wire attached.
Intercooler is in between two radiators (AC and Engine coolant). Just unbolted both of them from the intercooler.
S3 vs stock intercooler. Not much difference in size S3 may be 4mm thicker than stock and has aluminium end tanks.
S3 is about to go in. Stock one is going to garbage
S3 intercooler in the car!
Did a test drive, car feels bit livelier. But today is not a very hot day so benefits will be more clear in a 30+ degree day
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