Decision time

[Kent McLean]

jpinkowish wrote:
> So, the misaligned cams are causing low compression?  Although I am unfamiliar 
> with the v6, I would propose the following:
> --Pull the plugs and inspect the piston tops with one of those flexible 
> inspection scopes.  This will confirm or not the "smashed valves."
> --Reset the timing on the cams and remeasure compression.
> --If the compression is "acceptable", fill the crankcase, replace the oil 
> filter, and try to start the car.
> 
> Perhaps you and the mechanic already performed steps 1 and 2?

Nope. I was told that if the cams were off, there is so little
clearance for the valves that they'd go squish boom. 

An inspection scope would be nice, but I don't think it will 
help. Is it worth $300 to find out?
<http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=95833>

I was also told the stress the induced the pully/crank key
to (potentially) shear (all this is still speculation), would take
its toll on other parts.

I'm not sure I'd like the car with a 1.8T.  Now that I've started
looking around, there's all kinds of nice stuff out there, some
nicer than others (from a 2001 Passat V6 to a 2000 A6 V8).

My gut says go with a generic commuter (like the Passat) 
and save the 200 TQA for fun.

--
Kent McLean
'99 A4 Avant
'91 200 20V Avant #3
'94 100 Avant, sold
'91 200 20V Avant #2, up in smoke #2
'91 200 20V Avant #1, recycled
'89 200 10V sedan, up in smoke