Re: Timing belts

[Bfuson@aol.com]

One article in the Quattro Club newsletter recommended replacing the V8
timing belts in the 60K's.

On my 4K I've replaced the belt twice now, once at approx. 90k, second time
at about 190K.  Both times the old one was showing it's age, but not in
apparant danger of failing.  Replaced as part of a pre-winter process so that
the combination of age and cold temps didn't encourage a failure.  Belt is
still working fine at 220K+.

On my S4 I replaced the first belt at 72K.  That one was a surprise to me. I
was expecting closer to 80K.  

Advise careful and periodic inspection of your belt looking for debris,
cracks, general wear.  As noted for the V-8, the S4 is a real trip to change,
front body brace actually is designed to swing away from the car so you can
get to it.  Still 4-5 hrs labor if nothing goes wrong. A4 looks equally
difficult from the casual glances I've had at the engine bay.

Good luck