Thread: Trip to the Cape, D4 prep advice

Originally Posted by JGuestyBoy

To follow up,

Any recommendations on maintenance before we go?

I've see a few posts of people replacing control arm bushes etc. and while I think the car drives fine, how do you know if these kinds of things need replacing?

How many km old is the vehicle? What kind of use has it had? Much towing?

122,000k's and it hadn't touched anything but a sealed road since new and it's only ever towed a Jet Ski once...

Originally Posted by justinc

How many km old is the vehicle? What kind of use has it had? Much towing?

122,000k's and it hadn't touched anything but a sealed road since new and it's only ever towed a Jet Ski once...

Get all your bushes inspected and replace if necessary.
Also inspect bearings and replace if necessary.
Have an auto electrician check your alternator. It might benefit from a service.
I would replace headlight bulbs. A set of +130 bulbs should be good.

Replace the arms before you go. 100%. Also might pay to fit a new alternator too. The 150k mark is approaching and they are known to be problematic. Usually on a remote track at an unpleasant time! They ARE a show stopper when they fail. And use ONLY a genuine Denso one.

Do you guys recommend sticking with the genuine replacements for the arms?

Do both the upper and lower arms need to be replaced?

Front lowers. Use either genuine or Bilstein/ Febi or at least a branded OEM product.

Jc

If not already replaced, suggest or at least carry as a spare. I did a few years ago, just couldn't believe my luck when it popped day one.

Right Intercooler Hose - Cooling - Parts - Bearmach

It splits on the top elbow. You can limp to base. Is an easy DIY replacement, assuming you have sensible tools with you. (handy hint - you'll need plenty of cable ties, to help fit the wheel arch cover back in, as the body clips are a PITA....)

How old is the main battery? I would consider sticking a new one in, to avoid disappointment.