[A4] Clutch replacement

[Richard Hurt]

Hey all,

My clutch pedal has recently gotten much softer and I'm thinking that
it might be time for a new clutch.  I have a '98 A4 30vQ with almost
140k on the clock and I think the clutch is original.  The pedal still
has a good bite and I'm not getting any slippage, noise, or chattering
but its probably due for replacement with so many miles on it.

My question is two fold; does a soft pedal sound like a waning clutch
and is this something a DIY could tackle easily?  I think it involves
dropping the engine and doing a lot of fiddly bits (driveshafts, etc.)
and while I do have the ability I don't have the time / space / tools
/ knowledge to get into something major.  I've priced clutch kits at
around $300 and I figure $500 for labor; to under $1,000 all together.
Does that sound reasonable to you?

Thanx!
--
Richard Hurt
                    http://KangarooBox.com - We make IT simple!™

P.S. Is this list still active?  If not, where does everyone go for
advice now?  AudiWorld.com is slow and Christmas and seems to be
filled with a lot of low quality information (and newbs).  :(