Re: New Quattro owner

[Frederic Gittler <fjg@ch.hp.com>]

Scot,

At 22:08 8/15/95 -0600, Scot VanAlstine wrote:
/*
*  I've just purchased an '86 4000cs Quattro.  I have a few questions
* (possibly dumb ones).  On the console next to the diagram of 4 wheels is a
* knob that is marked 1 and 2.  Does this switch from all,front or rear wheel
* drive?  If so when should I use it? What do the lights mean on the diagram?
*/

First, a disclaimer: I do not have a 4000CSQ, but have a "sister" car, the
VW Quantum Syncro, which is essentially a Station Wagon version of the
4000CSQ. My answers are based on my experience with the Quantum, and my
general knowledge of the Quattros.

The Quattro original design includes 3 differentials without any automatic
locking mechanism. This means that nothing automatically distributes torque
or power.

The switch you have is to engage a pneumatic differential lock. 1 (probably)
locks the inter-axle (center) differential, with the result of forcing the
average speed of the front wheels to equal the average speed of the rear
wheels. 2 locks both the center and rear differentials. The lights on the
diagram show which differential is currently locked. Note that differentials
do not lock and unlock instantly; the diagram reflects the actual status.

It is strongly advised not to use the locking mechanism on dry pavement due
to the normal differences in wheel rotation speed during cornering. The
mechanism should be used only on "slippery" conditions. Check the owner's
manual for other restrictions.

Note that all Quattros currently in production are fitted with a Torsen
center differential. The V8 had yet a different design, with (if my memory
serves me well) an electronic center differential and a Torsen rear
differential. I am not sure of the A8 design.

I do not know the answer to your 2 other questions.
---
Frederic Gittler

'94 Audi S4 Quattro
'91 Toyota Previa LE All Trac
'86 Volkswagen Quantum Syncro