Exhaust manifold cracks on a 200

[Mike Arman <armanmik@n-jcenter.com>]

From: mike posner <posne@cts.com>
Subject: Exhaust manifold cracks on a 200

>  Unfortunately, I tweaked the intake valve on #1 cyl when the camgear
moved 45 degrees counter clockwise while I attempted to break loose the bolt.
The result, a bent intake valve on #1 cyl.  Local Audi dealer wants $3k
to repair, including $1100 for a new exhaust manifold, which is almost 
always cracked according to the service mngr.  No prior symptoms suggesting
a problem with a cracked manifold.  Any thoughts on this?  BTW,
Re the prior questions re interference vs non-interence valves, here,s some
expensive evidence.  Mike Posner

First thought: Your local dealer is a thief (but we knew that  . . . ), and
I gather he hasn't even LOOKED at your mainifold "which is almost always
cracked".

Second thought: (And this assumes the manifold IS cracked) Used manifold
from parts yard?, braze/weld yours, then have the gasket surface milled flat
- probably should have the surface milled even if it isn't cracked - these
often DO warp, and pull head studs.

R&R the head yourself, or find a trusted independent to do it (rotsa ruck!).
The valve itself is no big deal, either price or replacement. Three grand
for this job is outrageous! Even two grand (gee, your manifold was good! -
but you prolly should buy a new one just in case!) is astronomical - if it
takes 10 hours, that's $200 an hour - I think I'll tell my wife the lawyer
to turn in her law degree and become an Audi mechanic - she'll make more money!

Hells bells, for three grand, I'll fly out to wherever you are, do the job
over a weekend, and fly home! (Rant rave fume hiss) 

Other subject: V-5. There was once a motorcycle company named Megola
(Germany, 1920's), built what must have been the spiritual ancestor of the
Audi 100/5000 series - and no, this isn't an April Fools joke - 

Engine was five cylinder RADIAL, with cylinders in "star" layout inside the
rim of the front wheel. Whole engine rotated, thus turning the rim and tire
- bingo front-wheel drive, 5 cyl motorycle. Front axle was hollow, with carb
mounted on end - open exhausts - probably steered like a total pig, rode
worse - but this was real - have photos and references to prove it. As Anna
Russell (and Dave Barry) have said: "I am not making this up!"

Best Regards,

Mike Arman