'86 4kcsq clutch issue

[Huw Powell]

>   First off, cool list! I've been pouring thru the
> archives for days to soak in as much as I can about
> any issues anyone has had with this car. The thing
> that's got me bugged is the noise coming from the
> clutch, kind of a rattling-not-quite-grinding. Seems
> to go away after she warms up. No extra vibration in
> the stick and it's only there when the clutch is
> pushed in. Shifts fine, although there's some
> resistance finding first and reverse on occasion. From
> what I've read, sounds like a worn or dry release
> bearing or something-or-other bearing.
> Can I lube something?

Yeah, lots of things, when you have that tranny out to replace the
clutch.  Your release bearing (aka throwout bearing) is dying.

> Should I not drive this car until a clutch job?

eh, just listen for it getting worse and try not to get stranded.
Practice starting and driving in 3rd without the clutch!

> Is it just getting broken in at 158k miles?

no, that's about the lifetime of the T/O bearing in the Audi, give or
take 30k.

> Is the moon really made of cheese?

Yes, but that's another list.

--
Huw Powell

http://www.humanspeakers.com/

http://www.humanthoughts.org/