[BiturboS4] Clutch slip - am I screwed?

[Todd Sager]

It is not unusual for the stock clutch to slip when using an aftermarket
chip on a higher mileage S4.  A sure way to tell if the clutch is
slipping is to increase the load on it:  put yourself back in chipped
mode, and try to accelerate up a hill in 5th or 6th gear.  If the engine
races faster than you are accelerating, you are due for a clutch.

It is also not uncommon to have to replace the flywheel when doing a
clutch on these cars, as they tend to wear past their service limits.
At that time, it would be cheaper to install a lightweight flywheel
(such as the one we produce).  There are very few downsides to a
lightweight flywheel on the S4.  The only potential downside we have
found is that they can produce a metallic rattling sound under 2500 rpms
if starting from a stop in 2nd or 3rd gear (which is lugging the engine
anyway!).  This is common when using a lw flywheel on may cars.

If you indeed need a clutch, it would not be a bad idea to do the rear
main seal at the same time, since little extra labor is required at that
time!

For reference, we charge 15hrs to do a biturbo S4 clutch.  The downpipes
must be removed first, which is the bulk of the labor.



Adam Schwartz wrote:
>
> Thanks to all for the comments.
>
> Interestingly, my oil level is high. So I guess, too much oil could
> cause higher pressure and it COULD be spitting some out. I haven't
> driven the car for the last 2 days... Driving my 911... got some nice
> weather, but it goes into storage tomorrow.
>
> Anyhow.. I also have noticed that when I switch my APR back to stock
> mode, it doesn't seem to slip anymore. Its too soon to say for sure.
> Doesn't really mean anything, but I guess it MIGHT mean its less
> likely to be oil and more likely to be the clutch starting to get
> weak. My dealer who changed the oil last was Pass N Weiss just about
> a month ago (was... dont plan to go to them ever again. They SUCK!) I
> guess I should try and get my oil level to a 'normal' range.
>
> Looking into the RS4 Clutch plate and pressure plate. Any comments on
> that? And I am thinking about a lighter flywheel, but I dont think
> its really needed. For the cash... I would probably pass.
>
> I will go to an independent shop. Accell Auto in Waltham MA. Good
> shop... Anyone have an idea what I should expect to pay for a clutch
> job? I assume about $1k?
>
> Cheers,
>
> Adam
>

--
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.



Regards,
Todd Sager
President
A.W.E. Tuning
215-658-1670
Orderline 888-565-2257
http://www.awe-tuning.com


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