200qw alternator replaced, 4 wheel alignment

[EJKellock@aol.com]

Took the wagon to Low-Burg Audi (Olds, Caddy, Aurora, VW, Isuzu) in LaCrosse,
WI.
They pulled the voltage regulator/brushes and they looked good.  Alternator
bad.
Audi part $503.   I called around and found a Bosch reman at Napa (in stock!)
for $265.  Turns out the Audi part is a Bosch reman as well, not new.  New
belt installed $25.
Labor $119 (2 hours).  Bosch warranties the part for 12 months/unlimited
miles.  They also provide free jump start or towing for two years if the part
fails.  Yippie.

The trans/diff fluid level was good so I guess the leak has corrected itself
(had to add a pint last month).  Still burning off the right side catalytic
converter.  Mmm smells good.

In doing the wheel alignment, the left tie rod adjuster was frozen and the
tie rod end broke.  Alignment $49.95.  Tie rod end $59.  Labor to install
$30.
LF toe was out.  RR camber out.  Had slight pull to the left.  Fixed.

Open question to all:  How much is your steering wheel turned when driving on
a typically crowned road.  The state highway to/back from LaCrosse is crowned
in the center and my wheel was turned slightly to the left.  On the
interstate, in the left lane it was turned about an equal amount the the
right.  So it seems okay, but I'm still curious.

I don't know why I go to the dealer.  I guess it's a weakness.  I could have
replaced the damn alternator and belt myself.  Oh well.  I guess I'm getting
a bit lazy at the ripe old age of 34.

AWDIOS!
 
Ed Kellock ................. Lansing, Iowa
91 200qw ...................... 87 gt coupe