T5.1 to T6 front end change - A Quest!

Lightrofit

Electrical and Retrofit Mobile Specialist
VCDS User
T6 Guru
Hiya folks!

I have searched the site (albeit probably not enough) and I'm looking for the differences in parts to completely change a T5.1 front end to T6.

So far, I've got the obvious:

Bumper, wings, headlight, bonnet plus some fitting parts...

But looking at pics and ETKA, parts such as the lock carrier, bumper crossbar and alike have different part numbers and subtle design differences.

So my question is: Is there a definitive list of everything needed, right down to the nuts and bolts?

The long term plan is to also add LED headlights. I'm part way there with a T6 BCM fitted and wiring adjusted for Auto lights so not much left. I'll run the additional cables when the front end is off and add the level sensors too. Make a day of it ha!
 

This should give you an idea of the parts needed. This kit includes fake LED headlights, but for less money they do a kit with standard H4s, or for even less money they may do a kit without headlights if you plan on fitting OEM LEDs. It might be worth giving them a call.

If you are planning on fitting OEM LEDs, you may need to consider a bumper with washer holes.
 

This should give you an idea of the parts needed. This kit includes fake LED headlights, but for less money they do a kit with standard H4s, or for even less money they may do a kit without headlights if you plan on fitting OEM LEDs. It might be worth giving them a call.

If you are planning on fitting OEM LEDs, you may need to consider a bumper with washer holes.
That’s a good idea, I’ll take a look.

I have the wings, lights and bumper here, just the rest to get now. The bumper I have has the holes and mounts for the washers too, good shout on that.
 
Over time I have been slowly collecting T6 front end parts to do a front end swap (yes, I have a T5.1 but shhh) and now I'm just missing a bonnet so with that in mind, the front bumper I have is needing painting/repairs...

IMG_2177.jpeg

Apart from the usual Sportline or ABT, what front bumper mods have people done?

Along with swapping the front end, I'll also be adding front fog lights and PDC, if that changes any suggestions.
 
Hi folks!

I haven't had chance to make any progress with this for a while, purely down to lack of time and significant changes at home.

However, over the last couple of weeks, I've been able to make some progress in getting the parts together. Determined to do it for far less than the kits available but with getting it all separate, I can ensure I'm getting the latest versions of the parts and refining what I need, don't need and getting parts for upgrades along the way, if the parts are different.

So far, the only part I've bought used is the actual bumper, the rest is all brand new.

Some deliveries!

IMG_1673.jpeg
IMG_1946.jpeg
IMG_1947.jpeg

This was a huge step forward, the full lock carrier, front bumper support parts and added in a metal rear crash bar too.

IMG_2106.jpeg

So now the bumper has everything it needs to be fitted (sprayed and repaired first of course)

IMG_2177 (1).jpeg
IMG_1963.jpeg

Plus all new OEM bolts too, where needed...

IMG_1964.jpeg

Due to other issues, it's had to come to a grinding halt for a couple months but it's nice to know that I have the majority of it in hand.


In fact, in the diagram below, I'm only missing parts 1 and 3, plus a bonnet. That's it. Once I get my hands on those bits, technically I can do the swap. The only additions are the headlight washer jet hoses and fog lights but I can add the required wiring during the swap and the parts can be added at a later date if needed.

VW T6 Front End ETKA.JPG

I also want to have a mess around with adding ACC but that's an entirely different subject and project all of it's own lol.
 
Small, almost unrelated update but just snagged a Genuine engine undertray on eBay for £59. Bargain!

I've been looking for complete LED replacement units for the fog lights, has anyone found any? If not I can replace the bulbs but would prefer full units as they will be better designed for the LEDs.
 
You MIGHT be able to help me, I've a T5.1 Caravelle, I want to fit a T6 Lower front spoiler, NOT a lip spoiler, What are your thoughts, DO you have one you could offer up to your T5.1, I know i will have to modify, just wanna know if its pos, cheers, .
 
You MIGHT be able to help me, I've a T5.1 Caravelle, I want to fit a T6 Lower front spoiler, NOT a lip spoiler, What are your thoughts, DO you have one you could offer up to your T5.1, I know i will have to modify, just wanna know if its pos, cheers, .
Hi, I don't have one yet as that is planned for after the front end is fitted and sprayed
 
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