[urq] Front tie rods for the UrQ

[Gary Erickson]

On Tuesday, April 20, 2004, Andrew wrote:

AF> Anyone know where the cheapest place is to get a set
AF> of UrQ front tie rods. I bought a set for the '83
AF> years ago but I can't remember where. Any thoughts
AF> appreciated.

Andrew,

If you don't mind doing a bit of work (no welding though!), there is
an Audi parts-bin alternative.

Based on a comment somebody made late last year (I'm sorry I've
forgotten the poster's name) I did some further looking and put
together a fully adjustable set of tie-rods for my ur-q.

Get a set of 4kq/GT tie-rods and a set of '88 5k (non-t, non-q)
tie-rod ends.  (I'll list all the part numbers at the end)

This particular set of rod ends has the correct spindle diameter to
match up with the ur-q strut uprights, but fits the smaller M14x1.5
adjustment thread of the 4kq/GT tie-rods.

Now, this is not completely a bolt-in proposition.  You will have to
do some tweaking of the tie-rods to clear the wastegate and possibly
the transmission (on the driver's side).

I used some of my impact sockets to create a jig that I then clamped
in a large bench vice to reshape the tie-rod with the amount of curve
that I wanted.

4kq/GT driver's tie rod assembly:  811 419 801 E
4kq/GT passenger's tie rod assembly:  811 419 802 J

'88 5k driver's tie rod end:  443 419 811 C
'88 5k passenger's tie rod end:  443 419 812 C

I sourced all of my parts from Scott Mockry @ SJM Autotechnik.  The
tie rod ends were $45 each and the passenger tie rod assembly ran me
$59.  (I already had a driver's side tie rod assembly left from
another car, so I can't quote price on that)

For a bit over $200 US and an afternoon of "tweak, test fit, tweak
again", I now have fully adjustable tie rods that won't have the
alignment guy cursing at me and the option to replace the ends
separately if I ever decide it's necessary.

One side comment:  I can't recommend the use of the 2Bennett bent 4kq
tie-rod for our application.  (The one they sell for people who are
doing 10v turbo conversions in their 4kq/80/90 cars)  I had one that I
did a test fitting with and it had too broad a bend in it -- wanted to
rub the opening in the inner fender at anything more than moderate
turn angles.

Hope this helps!

-Gary

'82 ur-q #056

Disclaimer:  Modifying suspension parts may be hazardous to your
health as tie-rods under pressure in a bench vice have a tendency to
go "sproing!" and hit things across the room with great force.  Use
caution, wear safety glasses and gloves, and proceed at your own risk!