86 5ktq in rally cross!

[Bernie Strub]

I have some time behind the wheel of both 4ktq and 80q in various traction
conditions.  My experience has been that the manual-lock center differential
is beneficial in most cases.  Versus unlocked, I find that having it locked
provides a bit more understeer in on-throttle conditions, and some oversteer
in off-throttle application.  As such, the car becomes a lot more pointable
with the throttle, allowing more options for vehicle control.  I use the
center diff locked in most driver education events at the track, and for
autocrossing.  I fear no failure, with two spare transmissions at home, and
have experienced no problems todate (knock wood).

In the snow, I prefer to also run with the center diff locked.  It provides
significantly more traction, while allowing me to toss the car more easily.
I have tried using the rear diff locked, and found it useful for going
straight only.  It *really* doesn't want to turn.  However, on extremely
slick surfaces, or stuck in deep snow it works well to use whatever traciton
is available.  Just not a good tool for use at speed, IMO.

The torsen center diff of the 80q seems to perform quite transparently.  I
have not been able to make it misbehave, nor make it's existence known in
any way.  We will try some suspension tuning to try to add some off throttle
oversteer, since the center diff doesn't want to give us any.  The jury is
still out whether we leave that trans in the track car, or go to a manual
locker.

To get Audis to turn on ice, practice your pendulum turns.  Pitch the car
sideways and throttle through the turn with the tail out, modulating both
the throttle and steering to get to where you want to be.  With practice, I
believe it to be the fastest way around corners on slick surfaces.  All
those WRC drivers must know something of the topic!!!

Good luck with your rallycross.  I wish there were some of that available in
my area.

>>>>>Bernie