86 Audi 5TQ Won't Start

[Pbadore at aol.com]

Louis, I have seen a quite a number of failed coils causing no a start 
condition in the 84 to 88 Audi 5000 turbo engine including the one I bought a while 
back not running. However, there are many other causes for a no start 
including the distributor reference being out of alignment after a water pump change.  
I recommend buying a new coil which is expensive even if you are sure you 
have the correct no fault diagnosis.  If you plan to keep the car for an extended 
period of time--new is the correct solution. I do not think there are other 
coil substitutes for the Hitachi engine control system coil found in your 
generation of Audi 5000 turbo. If there is I would like to know.