[V8] Friction plate?

[Buchholz, Steven]

This is a critical part of the timing belt tensioning mechanism.  I am sure
that the part was not replaced by the PO's mechanic on #344, and it led to a
catastrophic failure of the tensioning mechanism ... I'm *very* lucky that I
didn't lose the timing belt ... and suffer the associated top end damage.
Thank you to Audi for installing the pin on the 5-speed rear timing cover
that keeps the belt from jumping teeth easily!  The friction piece fits over
a pin that couples the tensioning force to the tensioning roller.  If it
fails you end up with direct metal to metal contact on a sliding surface,
which means a lot of wear.  In my case I needed to replace some of the parts
in the pivot ... Keith saved my bacon there!  

As a result of that experience I also recommend doing the tensioning damper
... especially if you are on your second or third TB swap.  Since it is one
of the key components of the TB tensioning mechanism I consider it to be
fairly cheap insurance.  

Steve B
San Jose, Kaleefohnia (USA)
> 
> Can someone please explain to me what the friction plate does 
> and why it
> should be replced during a TB job?  I have looked through many sources
> and none seem to discuss this part.  I am getting ready to place my
> parts order so if you can respond promptly I sure would 
> appreciate it.