Re: Audi Help Needed

[DDURBIN@wvuvphs1.hsc.wvu.edu]

I need some help with a problem with my 1991 Audi 80's power steering system and was 
hoping that some of you folks could give me some advice.

It's a 1991 80 model with the 5 cylinder engine and a Vickers model 034-145-159-L 
power steering pump (I'm going somewhere with this so bear with me :-)) and 42,000 
actual miles.

As the temperatures dropped this winter I developed a "whistling" noise under the 
hood which I promptly checked out. What I found was that between 1800 and 2200 
RPMs the power steering pump was making that sound. I loosened the belt and the 
sound almost went away but the belt is much looser that in shoud be. 

The pump has a little end play (1/16th) but no "lateral" (side to side) play and seems to 
spin freely and the fluid level is ok-I did top it up once with about 3 tablespoons of the 
mineral based stuff) and I replaced the belt this summer.

Me , being pretty proficient on domestic cars like my Vette thought "no problem, I'll 
just get another pump and fix it"...

WRONG.. I have called almost every parts place (including dealers) listed on your web 
page only to find out that Vickers pumps are not available rebuilt and  new ones are 
between $500- 650. 

One fellow told me that Audi changed from a ZF pump (050-145-155-A) to the Vickers in 
mid year but the two are interchangeable and rebuilt versions of the ZF pump are redily 
available for <$260.

My questions are:
#1 Is this true that these two pumps are truly interchangeable? If so, would it pose any 
problems to use one of these on my 80?

#2 Is this cold weather whistling nosie normal and I'm worring about something that I 
do'nt need to?

All the folks I talk to tell me that they have never seen one of these go bad.

Since I'm not yet a member of your net could you please e-mail me directly.

Thanks very much and happy holidays!!
Dan Durbin
Morgantown, WV