2012-2021 (Mk7/Mk7.5) Volkswagen GTI BIG MOUTH Ram Air Intake Installation Guide
Kit Contents
Please review this document before attempting installation. You will need basic hand tools and 2 hours of installation time.
| Kit Contents | Qty |
|---|---|
| M5 x 14mm button head screw | 4 |
| M5 lock nut | 4 |
| 5mm large washer | 4 |
| Assembled BIG MOUTH kit | 2 |
| Cutting template | 1 |
| U-channel edge trim (18" pc) | 2 |
Stock Components Removal
Front bumper removal is not required for the installation of this BIG MOUTH; only the removal of the grille is required. Use the tools available online to research how to remove the grille from your specific car trim. Note: The installation as intended calls for the modification of the plastic cover that is attached to the grille.
Template
The template is meant to serve as a guide for (a) the opening that is needed for the incoming air and (2) for the holes that will be used for the fastening screws. Start with the passenger side. Place two of the supplied M5 screws in the indicated holes as temporary anchors that will hold the template in place. Keep the screws centered throughout the tracing process. Next, use a marker to trace the inner perimeter of the template and to trace the holes to the left and right of that profile. Once the markings have been made, remove the template, flip it along the Y-axis and repeat for the driver side.
Cutout and Drill
Using the proper protective equipment, use a rotary tool (Dremel) to cut along the profile that was marked in the previous step. Next, use a drill to make the fastening holes, starting with a pilot hole and working up to a 1/4 inch bit. Use a deburring tool or a file to clean up the edges.
Application of Edge Trim
Once the cutting is complete, the supplied edge trim will be used to disguise the jagged edges of the cut. First, use a cleaning agent to clean up the area around the cut so the edge trim can adhere. Next, remove the red-backed adhesive inside the U-profile and loosely start laying it down on the rear straight edge (do not press down on the adhesive yet). Slowly and carefully wrap around the perimeter and leave the short edges flared up as shown. Push up against the wall of the cut plastic with your fingers to prevent gaps. Once the entire perimeter has been wrapped, lay down the flared edges and squeeze the entire perimeter to adhere.
Application of Edge Trim
Push down on all sides of the rubber edge trim so the adhesive grips and use a blade to cleanly trim around the drill holes if there is overlap.
BIG MOUTH Installation
Take note that each body is specific to one side: 'D' for driver side and 'P' for passenger side. Starting with any one side, line up the part to its respective section on the plastic cover. Use the supplied hardware to fasten the part, taking care NOT TO OVERTIGHTEN. The button head should face up; use the provided washers if the hole is too oversized.
Finalize
Reinstall the grille the same way it was removed and enjoy!
