re: 4ksq Throwout Bearing Replacement

["Ken Keith" <keith@specialdevices.com>]

Dave Fain <KC3565L@sprintmail.com>
> 
> The throwout bearing on my 1985 4000S Quattro has apparently
> failed suddenly and rather noisily.  After studying the
> procedure for engine removal and replacement in the Bentley
> manual, I think I have a pretty good idea of what I am getting
> into, but I have a question.  The manual calls for removal of
> the v belt pulley, presumably to allow moving the engine far
> enough forward so that it will disengage from the transaxle.
> Since I don't have "supporting tool 2084" at my disposal, what
> is the best way to keep the crankshaft from rotating so that I
> can apply the 250 or so foot pounds necessary to break the
> bolt loose?

Engine removal?  Am I reading this wrong?  Don't you drop the tranny to 
change the throwout bearing?

Is this only for a 4ksq?  On my Coupe GT, I didn't have to remove the v 
belt pulley.  We're talking about the crank pulley, right?  AKA the 
harmonic balancer thingee?

> Judging from the Bentley manual, this looks like a two Saturday
> project at best.  I recently helped my son reinstall the 
> transaxle in his '89 Fox, so I'm pretty sure that removing
> the engine is less trouble than removing the transaxle, especially
> with that extra driveshaft to deal with.  Am I correct in this
> assumption?
> Thanks,
> Dave Fain

I disagree.  I think the tranny would be much easier.  You should know 
I've never pulled an engine, tho'.  I figure the tranny doesn't have all 
the fuel lines, and (as much of) a wiring harness, and exhaust, and 
everything else.  The extra drive shaft ain't nothing, compared to all 
that other stuff, IMO.

It seems like the much harder way to do it to me.  Am I way off base?  
When I replace the clutch in my 4ksq, will I have to pull the engine?!?

The biggest pain in the butt with the tranny removal to replace clutch 
components, IMO, is the darn steering rack/tie rod bracket area.

Ken