ALK kit is installed and front LCA bushings have been replaced with Super Pro poly ones. Car still needs an alignment but I decided to get a subframe bushing kit before I get another alignment. The subframe on these cars has a lot of slop which over time can cause clunking noises and mis-alignment. I also did not replace my subframe bolts back when I did the clutch and they are torque to yield bolts so not reusable 0_0
The bushings came out easily once I stopped trying to make everything straight and pretty. Just get er close enough and push it out.
Make sure you use a lot of lube. You get a tube with the ALK and a tube with the other LCA bushings so that's a tube per arm. I used about 75% of each tube on each arm.
Original GTI LCA weight with bushings.
Passat LCA weight with bushings.
Installed on the car.
Also got another used shift knob to try. This is one of the most popular ones and I understand why people love it. Raceseng Slammer shift knob. Super high quality and heavy AF (600 grams). I need to get used to it. It has brought to light some of the short comings in the OEM shift assembly and I don't think that is helping. I can see a Diesel Geek shifter in my future as well.
Started installing the subframe deadset kit Sunday night and had some troubles. The subframe is a real PITA to deal with. I may have cross threaded a bolt when I put on the LCA bracket. I ordered a M10x1.5 tap to try and repair it. If that doesn't work I'll Helicoil it. Worse comes to worse I'll but a used subframe mount off eBay for $70. Once installed I can get it aligned and ready for the twisties.