Re: Audi Quattro V8 Tranny

[WARATAP@aol.com]

In a message dated 97-02-25 10:51:58 EST, SwiftMotor@aol.com writes:

<< Slid my car  into gear last night and crept away from a stand still.
Noticed
 that all lights on the dash for the transmission were lit up!! Stopped the
 car, turned it off, started it back up, put it in gear and pulled away with
 no problems. This can not be a good sign. Any suggestions?
  Marvin >>

You just experienced the Auto transmission "limp home" mode of transmission
protection --Gear displays all light up and trans runs in gear  4.  I
experienced this exact same problem, as given in earlier post last November.
  
Repost below:

<<Unless you are lucky enough to have a former AOA executive car/mule, you
will not have the dipstick to check the trans fluid level.  It appears Audi
wanted to avoid having anyone else mess with the V8 Quatto trans.  (You can
probably buy the dipstick through your dealer or other source)

But first, have the fluid checked.  Your owners manual states that the trans
selector display in the dash lights up for all gears (but only uses 4th) as a
safeguard to prevent serious transmission damage.  I know this from personal
experience.  How many miles are on the car?  When was the trans fluid last
checked/changed?  I think you'd find a 5-Speed conversion very involved and
costly.  

I know the owners' manual/ service guide does not mention anthything about
servicing the trans, but I had the filter replaced at 130K miles--entails
removing exhaust pipes on both sides of trans pan.  Approx. $700 if I
remember correctly).  

Even if you drain trans fluid --highly recommended, you will not completely
replace old fluid unless you refill and drain 3 to 4 times in a row after
running on hoist (Just did that this summer). It's great insurance against
damage.  

Also check to make sure everything is clean by the trans --A few years back I
had (apparently) some sensors that got somehow collected moisture, giving me
the same all gear dash display scenario you have and enabling the 4th gear
only.  I'd just turn off the car, restart it, and everything was fine.
 Incidentally, this would never happen while driving; only right after
starting - wouldn't notice until after I'd back up out from my parking spot.
 I know its aggravating, but this warning is alot cheaper than a new
tranny.>>

Hope this helps.

-Ingo Rautenberg
'90 V8 163k+