chance for a V8Q

[Zsolt]

Hi Mike,

Not having a history is can be a scary experience for a V8.

The engines are typically strong, but the tranny can be a problem. I am
sure there are others who can elaborate on that, but make sure it shifts
smoothly up and down, and it doesn't stall when idles. There is no
dipstick for the V8 auto tranny, and although you can order one from the
dealer it has to reach the proper operating temperature before one can
get the correct reading, so checking the fluid level (IMHO) is not that
simple.

Check/ask if the timing belt has been done, and if not, allow $1000-1500
to get it done. The original brakes are UFOs on the 90 V8 and they are
quite pricey to replace ($200 or more / rotor), however there are some
conversion options such as BIRA and G60. Either way they are not cheap
to get them done. I heard a lot of people with the automatics had
problems with the central tranny locking up, which can be caused by
non-functional ABS sensors.

This is all I can tell you from my experience, but I'm sure others will
have some more info. Other than that, make sure all the typical Audi
issues are in order. The body and interior should also be sound, but
they mostly look very nice.

Cheers,
  Zsolt

Mike Arman wrote:

>
>
> Have a chance to buy a V8Q at what I think is a right price . . .
>
> Local car dealer has it, he claims to know nothing about it - he did
> have a
> 90 a few months ago which was severely overpriced, but the numbers on
> this
> appear good.
>
> Build date 6/89, looks pretty good.
>
> Now my questions - bomb check same as earlier type 44? Price of a V8Q
> bomb?
> (is this the same part as the late 5K type 44 bomb?)
>
> Shows 139,000 miles, and of course no service history, how much time,
> trouble and money is involved in changing the timing belt?
>
> Any special problems with the auto tranny?
>
> Any special gotchas on these cars? What to look for, what to avoid, any
> deal-killers?
>
> Does the 5K DaLan trailer hitch fit?
>
> I have a set of A4 six spoke sport wheels, 16", five bolt, with
> practically
> new tires - do these wheels fit?
>
> Comments appreciated, I'm going to see the guy tomorrow.
>
> Best Regards,
>
> Mike Arman
>
>
>