Slightly Concerned

Checked the archives, but couldn't find the same problem. Car's got 20k miles (Wett at 14k) and not a whole lot of abuse but when I launch at 2.5-3K RPM or so the rev's kick up significantly, something's slipping and I don't go anywhere. No choice but to re-engage the clutch and start from (chastened/worried) scratch. Have only attempted 3-4 times, noticed a faint smell when this occurs, but haven't been able to confirm source as clutch or other. No other driveline problems noted at any time, but get some variable boost (stumbling, perhaps) at certain throttle positions/weather conditions. I've hammered some manual VWs/Mazdas in the past -- I shouldn't be driving the Audi hard enough to blow something, or have I? Suggestions on troubleshooting/confirmation?

Andy Hedin

FYI: Manual Trans. doesn't have a torque converter, that's in an Auto trans

SteveW

It sounds as though your clutch is slipping. The smell is probably burning clutch material. The classic test for a slipping clutch is to set the emergency brake and then to release the clutch with the car in gear. First gear is okay. If the clutch is normal, the car will stall almost immediately. If the clutch is slipping moderately or badly, the engine will continue to run. For the clutch to be slipping at only 20K, there are only a few logical explanations that extend beyond driver abuse (i.e., riding the clutch, hard downshifts with the pedal in a partially engaged position, etc.). Slipping can result from something leaking into the clutch housing. Alternatively, the clutch may not be fully engaged because of a problem with the clutch control hydraulics. There is always the chance that the clutch was not aligned or tightened properly at the time of assembly, or even that there are defective parts, but those chances are rather low.

Slightly Chagrined

Ooops. Knew that.