Out of warranty repairs...

[Joe Yakubik <75363.2524@CompuServe.COM>]

In the continuing saga that is my transmission....

I had found a used tranny for my '91 200tqw (was there a "t" revolt, I've been
away).  But for a variety of reasons decided to go with the dealer repair.  I
was gone for two weeks, so I figured that my car would be ready when I returned.
It turns out that German parts for my German car being worked on in Germany are
on back order, with no delivery date forecast.

This did give the mechanic the opportunity to show me my tranny.  He (Audi
dealer mechanic) thinks a bearing failed (one was destroyed) and fell/worked
into the tranny, which took out the synchro which took out second gear and the
needle bearings with it which then deeply scored the hollow shaft -- basically I
scoop out the tranny like a turkey and re-stuff it with new parts.  Second gear
is no longer a ring, but three arcs.  In his factory trained opinion it was 100%
mechanical failure.  Because the car is 5 years old and has 60k miles on it, he
says he cannot work a factory/warranty repair.  He has recommended that I
contact Audi to try for some reimbursement, but thinks I should wait until it's
back together with an itemized bill to present them.  This could, of course, be
passing the buck.

My question:  Has anyone successfully been reimbursed or had a repair bill
picked up by a car company (Audi or not) when the repairs were out of warranty
and not subject to a recall?  What actions should be taken?  Is Audi monitoring
this list and wants to offer to foot the bill out of the kindness of their
corporate heart?  (Worth a try, maybe)

Seriously,  I would like to start getting my ducks in a row before I start
dealing with Audi.  Names and, when possible, addresses and/or phone numbers of
Audi officials who may/may not be helpful would be appreciated.

Joe Yakubik