90q rear differential noise

[Andrei Kogan <abk@phy.duke.edu>]

Hello,

Our rear differential seems unhappy. When cornering, it produces a
low-pitch growling /roaring noise. Not really noticeable when going
straight, only on reduced speeds, say getting on a highway-off ramp. On a
0-10 linear scale, 0 being a subtle whistle and 10 being <insert your
favorite dying car sound> I would rate it at 2-3. Based on the past
experience with a fwd 4k auto tranny rebuild, I would say it sounds like
the pinion teeth clearance isn't right. (they were having a very hard time
putting the differential of the 4k back together. It would make this
horrific noise, same in pitch as what i get from the quattro, but about 10
--- 15 on the above scale)

Question --- should I do anything about it? If so, what exactly? Has
anybody had any luck with rebuilding / ajusting rear differentials, or
should it just be replaced as a unit? Is this a signal of things to come,
or is it just an annoyance that I can live with without worrying until I
can afford repairing it? Since special tools are needed for most of
differential internal repairs, I am assuming that DIY is out of consideration.

Andrei
BTW, I'd like to thank everyone who recommended Probst's fuel injection
book. I got it , and it is great. Feels good to know what the hell you all
are talking about when it comes to Bosch stuff.

 



Well, this is the curse of the audi ownership. One becomes hyper-sensitive
to anything out of the ordinary when it comes to noises, feels, etc etc etc
with these babies.