[V8] Engine Trouble (v6 - but still Audi)

[Jason Wilkerson]

Ok, Lets see if I can remember all the replies and answer them all.

Scott P.:
  - Timing belt good - I know cause I checked that first - actually replaced 10k ago.
  - Fuel pressure at the rail - not sure the injectors are firing and not sure how to check?
  - I know it is getting spark - remember, it will run for a bit on starting fluid, but only until it uses the starting fluid up - almost like it isn't getting fuel - my thought on that was that was one of the following:  Either the engine is so low on compression that it will only run on something more volitile than gas, or it actually isn't getting fuel, but again, I know it is getting to the rail.
  
Scott D.:
  - I know what you mean about destroying the cams and crank - thats why I can't understand why it won't run - at least for awhile until the knocking gets too bad (if it is ruined).  I don't think the crank is ruined for the reasons listed below.

7013885254:
  - It doesn't have a gauge for the oil pressure, but it does have a light and warning buzzer.  I watched the light go out after I cranked for about 5 seconds.  Then I would leave the key on to see when the light would come back on - it took a good while 10 seconds or so - that tells me that the crank and cam journals aren't bleeding too bad.  At least that is my experience.  This also makes me wonder if there is a safety system on this car the cuts fuel if there is no oil pressure?  Any one have BTDT?

I'm starting to wonder if this thing got hot enough in the head to cause the valves to stick and then get bent.  If I look in the oil cap hole, the inside of the motor is super cruddy.  I am going to do a compression check this weekend, then may pull the valve covers to see if I can see if any vavles are bent - looking at the lifter as the cam lobe isn't engaged.  I'll see what I find there.  Thanks for all the help and suggestions - any other ideas are much appreciated. 

   Thanks again,
             Jason