[ba] My wrecked V8q (BA)

[Shayne]

Coming home around 23:00 going west on 24 in the Caldecott tunnel my LF
wheel came off!  So, needless to say, my poor V8q now sits three legged.

This happened just 300 miles after doing a complete suspension.  I mean
REALLY COMPLETE.  EVERYTHING WAS CHANGED.  And, just hours after getting
that alignment done (thanx for the feedback on that post).

I have NO idea why the wheel came off.  Best I can figure is the alignment
shop removed the wheel to unloosen the tie rods and did not torque them.  I
know my suspension rebuild was flawless.  I have done 6 of them on 6
different Audis in the last 2 years.  I can give you torque specs by heart.
I highly doubt it had anything to do with me.  I will confirm this in the
light tomorrow.


So, getting to my questions, any advice on how to handle this with the
insurance company?  Basically, I have a modded V8q with new H&R springs,
Bilstein Sports, Brembo rotors, Willwood Calipers, 5ktq strut housings, new
EVERYTHING on the front, including Delrin bushings.  18" wheels, one of
which some government vehicle hauled away before I could collect it.

Also, being that I am in law school I don't have time to do this job again.
Nor do I even have a proper shop setup yet.  I just moved.  So, I have no
idea who t take the car to.  This issue arises:  If I go to the dealer or
just let the insurance handle it, I imagine they will insist the car be
returned to factory shape.  NO WAY.  I am not getting rid of my Delrin,
springs or Sports.  Nor I am dumping my Willwoods.

I have Chubb but no experience with their claims.  I have never made one
with them.

Anyone have any feedback or input on what I can or should do?  Where to go
to get it fixed?  Know how to get the wheel back?  I need a great body shop
too.  I believe the CHP handled the claim.  No citation was given.


Thanx so much.

Shayne P.


Oakland, CA.

Enough Audis to give plenty of headaches.

Parting:  1972 Mercedes Benz 280 SE 4.5