In this video, we proceed with the installation of the Racingline Oil Catch Can designed for MQB platforms. This detailed tutorial will show you how to install an oil catch can on most Volkswagen and Audi models from the MQB range, replacing the original PCV valve and oil separator. Installation on a Golf R specifically requires relocating certain components for optimal and clean mounting.

Why Install an Oil Catch Can?

An oil catch can is an essential accessory for turbocharged engines. It captures oil vapors and combustion residues circulating in the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system before they can clog and damage the turbocharger and intake lines. This helps maintain engine performance in the long term.

Key Installation Steps

Our video guide walks you through the process step by step. We start by removing the OEM parts, then proceed to install the new Racingline kit. Special attention is given to repositioning certain components, a crucial step specific to the Golf R to ensure perfect operation and a clean installation.

Materials and Prerequisites

Before starting, make sure you have the MQB-compatible Racingline Oil Catch Can kit as well as basic tools. The process is accessible to most automotive enthusiasts with a bit of method and patience.

It’s already been 10 months since this Golf R joined the family! And to top it all off, did you know that it’s one of only 13 imported into the United States? Owning such a rare vehicle is a truly unique feeling. Of course, being the sole owner of a one-of-a-kind example (1/1) would have been the holy grail, but we’re not going to complain! The past few months have been marked by a series of modifications and upgrades…

The Recent Evolutions of the Golf R

The recent period has been intense for this German sports car. Many upgrades have been planned and installed, aimed at improving both its pure performance and its daily driving character. Each modification has been carefully considered to respect the vehicle’s spirit while adding a personal touch.

The Privilege of Owning a Rare Model

Driving a car produced in such a limited series is a unique experience. This rarity gives the Golf R a special aura and a collector’s aspect that goes beyond mere automotive use. It’s a privilege that adds an extra dose of excitement to every outing.

Stage 2 Crackle Tune vs no tune, the debate is on. It is entirely possible to make your exhaust line crackle and pop without resorting to engine remapping. However, the results will be much more subtle and random. The option of a tune specifically dedicated to crackles and bangs proves to be an infinitely more effective and spectacular solution for those seeking this aggressive sound signature.

How does a Crackle Tune work?

Today, we will break down how reprogramming the ECU (Engine Control Unit) can cause these characteristic crackles and detonations upon throttle lift-off. The technical principle generally relies on a deliberate enrichment of the air-fuel mixture and a slight shift in ignition timing. This allows unburned fuel to enter the overheated exhaust manifold, where it ignites explosively, creating the sought-after pop or bang.

Is it wise to tune your ECU solely for pops?

It is crucial to note that having your ECU reprogrammed solely to achieve bangs and crackles is not necessarily a trivial decision. This practice, although very popular, can potentially have long-term consequences on the longevity of certain components such as the turbocharger or catalytic converter, especially if the mapping is aggressive. The choice between a stage 2 crackle tune and no tune should therefore be carefully considered by weighing the pros and cons.

How to use VCDS, the essential diagnostic tool for Volkswagen and Audi. This comprehensive guide walks you step by step through getting started with VCDS software, formerly known as VAG-COM. Whether you’re a professional technician or a DIY mechanic enthusiast, this video is for you.

Main Features of VCDS

Our tutorial covers all the essential basics to master your VCDS interface. You’ll learn how to navigate through the different menus and harness the power of this software.

Reading and Clearing Fault Codes

Discover how to interpret the error codes (DTCs) stored in your vehicle’s control units. Learn how to clear them after a repair and verify they don’t reappear.

Measuring Block Values (MVB)

Access real-time data from all sensors in your VW or Audi. View engine RPM, temperatures, pressures, and much more for accurate diagnostics.

Coding and Adaptation

Master the advanced functions of control unit coding to enable or disable options. Use the adaptation module to customize the behavior of various electronic systems in your vehicle.

Basic Settings and Graphs

Perform basic adjustments on components like the EGR valve or throttle body. Use the graphing tool to record and analyze parameter trends over time, a major asset for diagnosing intermittent faults.

Who Is This VCDS Tutorial For?

This guide is designed for all Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, or Skoda owners who want to perform their own vehicle diagnostics. It’s also perfectly suited for beginner technicians looking to train in using this professional tool.

I constantly receive questions about choosing a toolbox. What is the best toolbox? What budget should you plan for your first mechanic’s toolbox? Should you opt for a used toolbox? Here are some of the most frequent questions. Disclaimer ~ This article is created in a paid partnership with The Home Depot.

Buying Guide: How to Choose Your First Toolbox?

Acquiring your first toolbox is an important investment. It is crucial to find a balance between quality, functionality, and price. The Husky 46″ mobile workbench often presents itself as an ideal solution for those who are starting out or looking to improve their workspace without breaking the bank.

The Advantages of a Mobile Toolbox

Mobility is a major asset in a workshop. Being able to move all your tools around a vehicle or project is an invaluable gain in time and efficiency. The sturdy wheels and locking system of the Husky 46″ make it a reliable and practical work companion for daily use.

Why the Husky Brand?

Husky is a brand known for offering durable and well-designed products, often with a solid warranty. Their range of toolboxes and mobile workbenches is designed to withstand the rigorous demands of professional use while remaining accessible to passionate DIYers.

Changing a wheel and correctly using the VW jack is an essential skill for every driver. Alarmingly nicknamed “The Widowmaker”, the VW jack has a reputation that precedes its use. Yet, replacing a flat tire is a roadside repair task within everyone’s reach, provided safety steps are strictly followed. This guide explains the procedure for using this tool confidently and changing your wheel quickly.

Why is the VW jack nicknamed the “Widowmaker”?

The original jack supplied with Volkswagens is a scissor jack model. Its dramatic nickname, “Widowmaker”, was given due to its potential instability if improperly positioned or used on soft ground. Its relatively small base and limited lifting height require particular attention to avoid any accidents. Understanding this risk is the first step towards safe use.

Equipment needed to change your wheel

Before starting, gather all the equipment: the VW jack, the wheel wrench, the spare wheel (space-saver or full-size), and wheel chocks (or a large, solid rock). Ensure your vehicle is on perfectly hard, flat, and stable ground. Absolutely avoid surfaces made of dirt, grass, or on a slope.

Step-by-step procedure for safely changing a wheel

1. Vehicle preparation and securing

Firmly apply the handbrake and engage a gear (or “P” for automatic transmissions). Turn on your hazard warning lights. Place a chock in front of and behind a wheel opposite the one you are going to change to block the vehicle.

2. Correct positioning of the VW jack

Locate the specific lifting point on your VW’s sill. This is a notch or reinforced area located behind the front wheels or in front of the rear wheels. Position the jack’s hook precisely on this notch. This is THE most important rule to avoid dangerous slipping.

3. Loosening the nuts and lifting the car

Loosen the nuts on the wheel to be changed slightly before lifting the car. Use the wrench and apply leverage if necessary. Then, operate the jack handle to lift the vehicle slowly and steadily. Lift just high enough for the wheel to clear the ground by a few centimeters.

4. Removing the wheel and fitting the space-saver

Unscrew the nuts completely, remove the flat tire, and replace it with the spare wheel. Hand-tighten the nuts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure correct initial placement.

5. Lowering the vehicle and final tightening

Carefully lower the car with the jack until the tires rest on the ground. Remove the jack. Tighten the nuts firmly with the wrench, still following a star pattern. Stow your flat tire and equipment.

Mistakes to absolutely avoid

Never crawl under a vehicle supported only by the jack. Do not use the jack on unstable ground. Do not position the jack anywhere under the body: use only the designated lifting points. Avoid raising the vehicle more than necessary.

Conclusion: a simple operation with the right precautions

Although its nickname is alarming, the VW jack is an effective tool when used cautiously and according to instructions. By following this guide, you will turn a stressful situation into a simple formality. The key to success lies in strictly adhering to safety rules, particularly the choice of ground and the exact positioning of the jack.

The MAKITA 18V LXT LED flashlight is a high-performance lighting tool designed for professionals and demanding DIY enthusiasts. Operating on the well-known 18V LXT battery platform in the power tool world, this cordless flashlight offers remarkable autonomy and power. It is often sold in a kit with a 2.0Ah battery and a charger, making it a complete and immediately operational solution for those not yet equipped with the Makita ecosystem.

Features and Benefits of the Makita Flashlight

This flashlight stands out with its strip of 12 high-brightness LEDs, delivering powerful, uniform, and shadow-free lighting, ideal for working in the dark or in poorly lit spaces. Its cordless design, thanks to the lithium-ion battery, frees you from any power cord constraints and offers total mobility. Makita’s robust, shock-resistant construction ensures its durability even on demanding job sites.

Autonomy and Usage

Thanks to the 18V lithium-ion battery technology, this flashlight benefits from long battery life and low self-discharge, ensuring your tool is charged and ready to use when you need it. Its compact size and ergonomic grip make it an ideal companion for a multitude of tasks, from automotive repairs to camping and home troubleshooting. It is an essential addition to any respectable toolkit.

Dewalt 20-VOLT MAX 4-1/2 in. Angle Grinder. We often buy a new tool thinking “this tool is nice, but I don’t really NEED it.” That’s exactly what I thought before acquiring the Dewalt 20V MAX cordless angle grinder. Ultimately, this cordless grinder quickly became a tool I wish I had owned for years.

Why Choose the Dewalt Cordless Angle Grinder?

The freedom offered by the absence of a cord changes everything. No more dragging an extension cord, worrying about a power outlet, or getting tangled in a cable. The power of the Dewalt brushless motor is impressive and easily rivals many corded models, whether for grinding, stripping, or cutting.

Technical Features and Benefits

With a 115 mm disc, it is perfect for precision work and hard-to-reach areas. Its compact size and anti-vibration handle make it easy to handle and comfortable, even during prolonged use. The 20V MAX battery offers excellent battery life and integrates perfectly into the Dewalt tool ecosystem you may already own.

Final Verdict on the Dewalt Angle Grinder

What I thought was a superfluous purchase turned out to be an extremely cost-effective investment. Time savings, efficiency, and mobility: the Dewalt 20V MAX angle grinder definitely has its place in the toolbox of any demanding craftsman or DIY enthusiast.

The best car modification you can make isn’t what you think. You might be looking for the best mod for your car, but the answer is much simpler than you imagine. It’s neither an engine tune (ECU), a sport exhaust system, upgraded suspensions, performance brakes, or even good tinted windows.

The ultimate modification: the DRIVER MOD

The real improvement, the one that will make the biggest difference on both the track and the road, is you. The best performance upgrade for a vehicle is and will always be the DRIVER MOD. This means becoming a better driver, refining your feel, anticipating trajectories, and understanding the mechanics of your car.

Why bet on the driver?

A high-performance car in the hands of a novice driver will never deliver its full potential. Conversely, an experienced driver will know how to get the most out of a much less modified car. Therefore, investing in your driving training is the most cost-effective and safest mod. It’s the key to fully utilizing all the other modifications you might add later.