Re: 1.8 A4 engine

[Dan Simoes <dans>]

> Maybe the mechanic is right, I doubt it
> but maybe he is. Has he taken a 1.8T or 2.8 apart? Does he have
> the credentials and experience to objectively analyze the engine
> itself in terms of construction and design? Has he done real
> statistical analysis? How many has he worked on with serious
> problems?

It sounds like the answer is "yes" to all the above.  As I said, this is a
guy who sounded like he knew his stuff, and claimed to have 20+ years
at the Audi tech level.  He also had no reason to BS me, and sported
a german accent too :)
 
> The warranty costs will kill them if there's
> something seriously wrong with it not to mention what it will do to
> their reputation(something neither VW or Audi can afford right now).

I asked him if the bad engine had been chipped - he wasn't sure.
If he's right about the lack of oil delivery to the turbo, chipping
could be the deciding factor as far as failures.
 
> Another thing that can be learned from the 'net is that ALL cars
> have problems that are outliers on the bell curve. This includes
> things like Hondas seizing engines at 20K and Toyotas having
> undiagnosable electrical problems.

True.
 
> 'He says the TT is a bit better as far as the oil delivery because
> they use a chain "like american cars"'. That says it all.

It doesn't.  He went into far more detail that I am not qualified to
comment on.  Does anyone else know the difference between the innards on
the TT and A4 engines? 

> APR said the 1.8T is susceptible to carbon build up and
> that I should get an anti-carbonization service done.

I think the main issue is not enough octane.  You should try Eliot's "rocket
fuel".
 
> Currently, the APR chip has been sent back for reprogramming to not advance
> the ignition as much.  This is the only engine related problem I've come
> close to having with my car.  I'm not sure I can even blame this on the
> engine or the new chip yet.

I will probably look at a Garrett chip myself, if and when I get that elusive
A4 (now being told Avant ordered today won't be here until Jan...)

| Dan |