Re: Tire Wear (Now alignment)

[Jeff W <hjr@buffnet.net>]

Dan Simoes wrote:
> 
> > > Alignment for a Q is ~60 -100 $ (that is US dollars)
> 
> My independent gets about $120 (~2 hrs).  The dealer quoted
> me over $200 for a 4 wheel alignment, says it's because
> the rears are so hard to do - front only, $79.
> 
> | Dan |
> --


When I first bought the car & wanted to align it, I checked with the
dealer and got a ungodly price like you mentioned.

I now get it done at a local Western Auto (hold back the laffs pleez)
that sells tires & does alignment.  They always run a special, about
every other month.  

The price, unbelievably low $ 39.95 for a full 4 wheel alignment.  The
first time I went, the guy that did it used to work at the local Audi
dealership (hold back more laffs), and knew exactly what to do. (you're
supposed to use VAG tool XXXXX to push the adjusters a certain direction
& hold.  He knew how to use Vice-Grip part # CHEEP to accomplish the
same task)

The following year the guy was gone, so after they did the printout they
told me it needed adjustment but didn't know how to do it.  I simply
went back with them & showed the tech how to do it. 

I suspect that most tire shops that have the latest computer alignment
stuff can do it, it's just a matter of the hassle of not having the
specified tool, and seeing if they will work thru the problems. (the
computer printout says "USE VAG TOOL XXXXX" which scares them)

We backyard Audi enthusiasts are usually well schooled in tool 
improvisation ;)

Jeff

'88 80q