Re: Front end coil springs, 1990 tqs 200, brief

[David Weiss <dzweiss@worldnet.att.net>]

>in hopes of a response from a sympathetic Lister:

I feel your... (just can't say it!)

> Right front pass. side coil spring broken off the base, causing a  
> "droop" of about 2 inches.  So I need to replace the coil spring--and 
> probably should replace both front springs.   Shocks seem okay, but 
> should I replace--if so, with what?? 

Some options:

1) Buy set of four springs from TAP or Sport Wheels.  Eibach
progressives are in the $300-$350 range.  Maybe 8 hrs labor to do all 4
springs and shocks.  If you go this route, do stiffer shocks than stock,
all around; I didn't on the '89 200Q because the OE's were fairly new in
the front, wished later that I had changed them anyway.  Of course, need
alignment.  Note:  the aftermarket springs will lower the car, and will
increase ride stiffness, esp. in back.  Car will handle noticeably (sp?)
better.  Needed maintenance is perhaps the easiest way to justify an
upgrade to one's better half, if she wears the pants or keeps the
checkbook.

2) Buy a spring from dealer (eg. Linda, Marty, et al at Carlsen Audi in
sunny CA, no snow).  Shocks might last, but if they're pretty old
already, you'll just have to get in there again soon.  Fronts can be
replaced from the top, but I've never tried-- if the nuts that hold them
in the wheel bearing housings are frozen, the struts might have to come
apart anyway.  Maybe someone else has BTDT?  Also need alignment, after
strut has settled in.

2a) Find a spring in a yard.

2b) Pay shipping on my two original front springs from early '89 200Q
(MC one KS) that have been in the garage for a while, and seem in no
particular hurry to leave on their own.  They are in love, only go
together. ;-) <leer?>  You can have all four, actually.  Need to get
someone w/ parts fiche to verify these are the same springs; if you're
then interested, we could work this offline.  Insurance co. bought my
200Q w/ Eibachs in it, and unfortunately some other goodies as well. :-( 

> Linda???  Blush--I don't know how to contact Linda or how to ask for 
> Audi Q List discount (is there one??))  Please advise..

See vendor list link on Quattro List home page.

HTH,

--Dave Weiss
  '91 V8 5-spd
  '93 90CS UnQ