Installation instructions: Adapter sleeve for track rod conversion - perfect fit for Golf 1, Golf 2, Golf 3, Caddy, Corrado, Jetta & T3 Bus when lowering the vehicle
Why should I do the conversion?
🔧 Optimum solution if you lower your vehicle:
From a certain depth, the tie rod ends lie on top of each other, which has an enormous negative effect on the driving behaviour. With our Epytec adapter sleeves (click here), you can easily and quickly fit your tie rod ends so that you have great handling despite lowering and without expensive or complex adjustments.
💰 Cost-effective and efficient:
In contrast to replacing complete tie rod ends or expensive special solutions, our Epytec adapter sleeve offers an inexpensive and simple alternative.
⚙️ Quick and easy installation:
The conversion only requires the track rod mount to be drilled out with a 16 mm drill. The adapter sleeve can then be easily inserted and the original tie rod ends fitted from below - without any complicated adjustments and in a short time.
🔄 Can be retrofitted at any time:
If you want to restore your vehicle to its original condition at some point, this is no problem. The Epytec sleeve is simply refitted in the original position, so that the tie rod ends are back in their original position - without any permanent changes.
These advantages make the conversion with the adapter sleeve the best solution for anyone who wants to lower their vehicle and at the same time have a safe, stable and durable solution.
Installation instructions
These installation instructions will guide you through the entire installation process of our Epytec tuning adapter sleeve (click here).
Here we not only show you step by step how to assemble everything, but also explain why every move counts and is important.
Aim of the guide: You will learn what exactly each component does and why precision is the be-all and end-all here. You will be ideally equipped, not only for this installation, but also for future projects.
What tools do you need:
- 19 mm socket with ratchet / impact wrench or open-end spanner
- Torque spanner
- 16mm HSS Drill
- Countersink for deburring or deburrer
- Rubber mallet
- Depending on knowledge approx. 1 hour of work
Step-by-step instructions for fitting the adapter sleeve to the tie rod end of the VW Golf 1 / 2 /3 T3 Bus and many more
Step 1. The tie rod end in its original condition
Step 2. Dismantling the tie rod end
Step 3. Loosen the locking nut of the tie rod end and remove the tie rod end
Once the nut has been loosened, you can remove the lock nut completely. If the tie rod end is still firmly seated in the mount, it may be helpful to carefully loosen it with a rubber mallet or a suitable puller. As soon as it has loosened, you can pull the tie rod end down and out. Make sure to check the mount on the steering knuckle for damage or dirt before proceeding to the next step.
It may also be advisable to replace the tie rod ends with new ones if they are extremely worn.
Step 4. Drill out the track rod mount using a 16 mm HSS drill bit
After the tie rod end has been removed, the tie rod socket must be drilled out to make space for the Epytec adapter sleeve. Use a 16 mm HSS drill bit for this.
Fix the drill perpendicular to the holder and work with even pressure to obtain a clean and precise drill hole. Be careful not to remove too much material at once to ensure an exact fit for the adapter sleeve. Once the hole has been drilled out to the required size, you can proceed to the next step.
It is even better if you remove the complete wheel bearing housing, then you can clamp it cleanly and drill more precisely.
Step 5. Deburr the drill hole from both sides
After drilling out the track rod mount with the 16 mm HSS drill bit, it is important to deburr the drilled hole from both sides. This removes sharp edges that could later affect the fit of the adapter sleeve or the assembly.
It is best to use a countersink to round off the edges cleanly.
If you don't have a countersink to hand, you can also use sandpaper.
Work carefully and evenly so as not to remove the material unnecessarily. A cleanly deburred drill hole ensures an exact fit of the adapter sleeve and prevents stress or damage during insertion.
Step 6. Remove metal chips and clean the drill hole
After deburring the drill hole, it is important to thoroughly remove all metal shavings. These can otherwise lead to fitting problems or cause damage when inserting the Epytec adapter sleeve.
Use compressed air, a brush or a lint-free cloth to carefully clean the drill hole and the surrounding areas. You can also clean the area with brake cleaner or a degreasing cleaning agent to ensure that no residue remains in the drill hole. A clean receptacle makes it easier to insert the adapter sleeve accurately and ensures a stable connection in the long term.
Step 7. Insert tuning adapter sleeve from below
The stainless steel adapter sleeve (click here) can now be inserted into the prepared track rod holder. Insert the sleeve from below into the drilled and deburred hole. Make sure that it slides straight into the holder without tilting.
If the sleeve does not slide directly into position, you can carefully move it into the correct position using light pressure or a rubber mallet. It should sit firmly and securely in the mount without any play or protrusion.
Step 8. Fitting the tie rod end
Once the adapter sleeve is securely seated in the mount, you can insert the tie rod end.
Insert it into the adapter sleeve from below and make sure that it fits straight into the hole without tilting.
As soon as the tie rod end is correctly seated, place the safety nut on the thread of the tie rod end from above and tighten it by hand.
Now first tighten the nut with an impact spanner / open-end spanner until the cone of the tie rod end is securely seated in the adapter sleeve. Make sure that you only tighten the nut by hand in the first step.
The final tightening is then carried out using a torque spanner. Set the torque to approx. 50 Nm (the exact torque varies depending on the vehicle, follow the manufacturer's instructions) and tighten the nut precisely to the specified value. If the cone of the tie rod end rotates in the process, secure it with a suitable counterholder.
Once the nut has been tightened to the correct torque, the connection is stable and the tie rod end is securely mounted.
This is the last step, so the installation of the Epytec tuning adapter sleeve on your vehicle is complete
Caution: General sources of error when installing the adapter sleeve
Disclaimer
Please note that this installation is carried out at your own risk. Epytec accepts no liability for damage or injury resulting from the execution of these instructions. Make sure that you understand all the steps and take the necessary safety measures.
And that's it! That's it!
We hope that you have now successfully installed everything. If you have any questions or anything is unclear, please do not hesitate to contact us at. Click here to go directly to the contact form (click here)
AboutEpytec
Epytec is a leading specialist in the manufacture of tuning adapters, with more than 15 years of experience in the industry. Our products, which are manufactured entirely in Germany, stand for quality and innovation. Tuning adapters are essential connectors between car parts that make it possible to combine components from different vehicles. Our adapters make it possible, for example, to adapt a high-performance Porsche brake to a Golf GTI or to install a powerful Audi engine in a VW Transporter. This flexibility enables individual adaptations and optimisations that would otherwise not be possible.
Our commitment to the highest quality standards and the satisfaction of our customers is also reflected in our service. We guarantee trouble-free registration with the TÜV, which gives our customers security and confidence in the legality of their conversions. This combination of first-class products and excellent customer service has made Epytec a market leader that inspires hobby tuners as well as professional mechanics and vehicle builders. With Epytec, you are opting for proven technology "Made in Germany" that not only makes your vehicle more powerful, but also more individual.
FAQ – Adapter sleeve for track rod conversion
Does the adapter sleeve fit my vehicle?
The adapter sleeve is compatible with Golf 1-3 (also VR6), Golf 4 Cabrio, VW T3 Bus (2WD & Syncro), Passat 35i, Polo, Vento, Corrado, Jetta, Lupo 1, Caddy 1 & 2 as well as Seat Arosa 6H1 and Cordoba 6K1..
Do I have to drill out the track rod mount?
Yes, the mount must be drilled out with a 16 mm HSS drill bit so that the adapter sleeve fits correctly. The drill hole should then be deburred and metal chips removed.
Can I undo the change?
Yes, the sleeve can be used upside down so that the tie rod ends can be fitted as they were originally.
