4kq performance parts

[lrickert at covad.net]

>If I recall correctly, the front sway bar on a NON quattro 4000 is 22mm. The
>front on a quattro is 24mm.  Why not pull the front sway bar off a wreck at the
>wreckers and put it on the back?  It's pretty close to 25mm!

I have put a front 4kq bar in the back and it works very well. You can see
pictures of my install here: http://home.covad.net/~rickert/Audi.html
It is really very easy and extraordinarily cheap (I spent a total of $10 and a
couple of hours). I used two pieces of steel strap to attach the inboard
bushings to the sub frame using the bolts that hold the tie rods on. I used the
stock metal brackets and made a square hole in the strap so they would attach
just like in front. (this will be clear when you look at a front subframe
without the bar on it) I used the front end links and made some bushings using
big washers and rubber and nylon parts from the plumbing section of a hardware
store.  It works great and unlike the aftermarket options I have seen, doesn't
effect ground clearance. I have had it on for a couple of years and am happy
with it.

Do note that nothing you can do will ever totally remove this car's tendency to
understeer. (other than adding tons of power and removing the front drive shafts
I suppose)  The combination of lousy weight distribution, awd and strut
suspension mean that these cars will never be free from this curse. (what is it
they say about a pig in a dress) Anyway the rear bar helps but can also get you
into trouble if you are not careful or aware.

I do not want to start this argument again but in my experience driving around
with the center diff locked does nothing to improve handling unless you are
driving generally straight in very slippery conditions. It also makes left foot
braking and handbrake turns much less effective. Test it for yourself on the
autocross or rallycross course and the clock will tell.

Limited slip diffs or much easier changing hoses around to just locking the rear
would be better solutions for improving traction although with low powered cars
like our 4kqs working on the suspension so the front wheels stay oriented
perpendicular to the ground is probably even a better way to go. You should be
able to do this with a bigger front bar along with stiffening up the backend.
(any comments? Do you folks running coilovers or other stiff fronts find that
they help to reduce understeer?)

Luke