Re: 4KQ Front end work

[Jerry Croucher <croucher@eos.net>]

Benjamin,

I did a complete rework of the front end on my 86 4kcsq including new
bushings in the control arms.  I removed the arms and had my regular
mechanic R&R the bushings.  He had to use a large press and heat to
remove them.  I do live in a snow (read salt) belt state so that was a
factor.  In my case a vise would not have done the job.

Now that you have the struts off consider replacing the wheel bearings.
After all with the struts off the car you've done alot of the work.  You
might also consider new CV boots for the same reason.  Be aware that
the axles can be a pain to reassemble.

I replaced my exhaust with a Stebro a year ago.  Great sound, improved
top end power.  I had a problem with one of the hangers breaking from
metal fatigue and had to have another welded on.  I also had problems
with the bolts loosening up using the composition gaskets that came with
the system.  I changed to the all metal gasket that Audi uses for the cat
and my problem was solved.

Good luck

Jerry

"Swann, Benjamin R. (BSWANN)" wrote:

> Any BTDT from the list on the following work associated with front strut
> replacement is appreciated.
>
> I have my '85 4000 Quattro 140Kmiles up on jack stands.  Front struts
> removed.
>
> Installing new BOGEs and strut bearings.
>
> Needed to replace a tie rod end and a lower ball joint and a CV boot that is
> starting to look like the other did before I replaced it recently.
>
> I'm also looking at replacing the control arm bushings with new OEM rubber.
> Should I be able to press these out with a large vice or will I need a
> press?
>
> Anything else that I ought to get to while I've got all this apart, or do I
> have everything covered pretty much so I wont have to dissasemble again to
> replace something I might have missed in the near future?
>
> Next week - installing a STEBRO SS Exhaust from cat on back.  Any BTDT on
> this also?
>
> TIA for replies.
>
> Ben Swann
> '85 4KSQ
> '87 5KCSQTW