5K timing belt

[John Larson <jdlarson@ix.netcom.com>]

Mike, we routinely change the timing belts in these cars at 60K, but I
have seen 5Ks go twice that far before having it changed. There are
several factors which could be culprits here. Oil on the belt from a bad
cam or crank seal, not checking/adjusting the tension, a bad roller, a
failing water pump bearing, poor installation the last time, and greater
drag on the cam than normal due to sludge buildup in the oil passages.
Another factor is the tried and true "bad luck". If the primary operator
and provider of maintenance is as anal as you report, that belt should
probably have been changed earlier, as there most likely was a slapping
noise for some time prior to the failure. I suspect the failure was due
to the belt being too loose, but I don't have many of the facts needed
for an accurate diagnosis.
No, the 10V is not a hitter. Yes, they should probably have
checked/replaced the water pump, and the roller as well. However, the
roller need not always be changed, I've seen some go through several
timing belt changes.
Now for the flame. It would be a wise move on your part to try to lose
the attitude toward dealer techs, many of whom are well trained, more
than competent, and are often willing to share their knowledge and
experience with those of us in the aftermarket. They're not all flat
raters, and often are the only ones with enough resources to solve
difficult diagnostic problems. You're gonna find bad ones, I can
guarantee it, but the good ones don't deserve to be tarred with the
brush of generality. No, I'm not a dealer tech, though I sure would have
had an easier time of it had I been able to continue my training at that
level after I entered the aftermarket.
Having said that, thank you for joining us, It's been weeks since I had
a good excuse for a little rant. I hope you stay with us a while, enjoy
your Audi, and learn something while you're here. This list is pretty
heady company, and it's a fun ride.
John