Re: P.O.S.? I think not.

[EICHSTEV@aol.com]

Al,
Sorry to hear you are having so much trouble.  As a veteran of seven timing
belt replacements on Audi I5's, I have found the following hints.  BTW, it
now takes me about 1.5hrs on a non turbo and about an hour longer on turbos
because of the intercooler, added cleaning time, etc.

1.  Do not start without all the tools. I consider the following tools
_essential_; crank bolt socket tool (2079), pulley lock (2084), cam sprocket
holder (not sure of P/N), 3/4" breaker and torque wrench.  I made a puller
(3034) for the idler pulley.  You might spend a little on tools, but you will
still save in the long run.

2.  The replacement A/C belt should be slightly larger to allow easier
fitment.  Most good parts suppliers such as GPR know this. 

3.  The cam and crank seals can be removed quite easily after some
deformation.  You're not putting them back in so who cares if you tear it. 

4.   Press the idler pulley on ALL the way, then install the bolt.  If you
try to seat the idler with the bolt, the bolt WILL break.  BTDT, not fun.

5.   Use _only_ German waterpumps with the steel sprocket.  The aluminum
sprockets on Italian and some other replacements eventually wear out.  BTDT.

6.   Remove the bumper (2 bolts, 5 minutes max), grill and intercooler to
give yourself some space.  You will be thankful you did.

7.   Remove the cam sprocket and inner belt cover if replacing the waterpump.
 A friend of mine had me replace his cover after rattles developed after he
cut it.  Shortcuts are often not.

In general, I think Audis are very easy to work on _with the right tools_.
 My Triumph Spitfire is probably the easiest car to work on that I have ever
seen, but also has some of the worst engineering.  Sure the Audi has its
faults, but look at the complexity of it all and how well it holds up.  

Wow, I can't believe I'm sticking up for the cars that have cost me so much
grief.  Guess that's why I'm an Audiholic.

Steve Eiche
'82 Not So Ur q 3B to be, epitome of PITA