Open question about 4000 Strut bars Jamex?

[Huw Powell]

> Open Letter about strut braces / bars.
> 
> Carter has a bar on his Coupe GT.  Jamex?  He'd know what was available.
> He posts on AW 4000 forum   86 CoupeGT I think.

Both Jamex and Sparco made braces, neither have been available new for a 
long time.

> That being said, the S4 / S6 of 1992 - 1995 has brackets which can be 
> ordered, but I suspect the towers are sooooo different that a factory brace mount 
> wouldn't work on an older and small type 85 4000Q.

The type 8A bar works on the type 85 car, Marc Swanson did it on his 
4kqt, as I recall.  Here are some photos I found of that:

http://www.theswansonfamily.us/modules.php?name=gallery2&g2_view=core.ShowItem&g2_itemId=11419
http://www.theswansonfamily.us/modules.php?name=gallery2&g2_view=core.ShowItem&g2_itemId=11431

I listed the part numbers a couple of days ago, they are also here:

http://www.humanspeakers.com/audi/strut-brace-90.htm

> Bernie (Benz) makes a direct to the shock tops EMT (Home Depot) bar set-up.  
> I suspect a home made one could be devised. 

I don't see why not.  Not sure EMT is the best choice, but at least it's 
nicely galvanised.  The 8A bar mentioned above is just a straight square 
tube bolted to a couple of conveniently shaped brackets that get welded 
to the tower.

> On the 4000Q  either bending the bar around the battery or the brake res, is 
> the issue AFAIK.

There are a few obstacles in the way, that opening the hood and looking 
will make apparent - the battery, the power steering reservoir, and the 
cruise control pump are all in the line of fire.  You can fit a brace 
over the battery, or dodge around it like the Jamex bar does.  If you do 
put it over the battery, make sure it's removeable!  It is also possible 
to "miss" the PS reservoir.  I have moved or modified a few CC pump 
brackets over the years.

By the way, it is a really worthwhile addition to any type 85.

-- 
Huw Powell

http://www.humanspeakers.com/audi

http://www.humanthoughts.org/