UTPwniez

Hi folks! I'm a new proud owner of a 2004 Audi A4 B6 1.8TQ. I've previously owned 2 240 s13s w/ built SR motors, so I'm not a nooby to mods & performance, but I am a total nooby to Audi as a whole. I understand that you need to maintain these things like babies, which I already do for all my vehicles I own so this won't be a problem. I've heard great things about the A4s and I feel I chose the right engine for the job, but I would like some feedback on that. I picked her up for 2 grand w/ 128k mi. and runs beautifully with no apparent leaks besides a very small water leak.

First, I would like to know if there's anything specific I need to keep an eye out for, or should look at now before a problem goes unnoticed and causes issues. I have the 6 spd tranny, but have heard the stock trannys tend to lock up/weld w/ too much power on launches? How does the AWD system compare to something such as an EVO/STI?

Second, I plan on producing around 400HP in the long run after I get to know her better and do my research. Any type of average list going around? Mandatory company/parts Audi enthusiasts encourage? I've been told to chip my ECU first, then go for major mods. If one could list the order of mods I should get first to last, that would be awesome.

Any help would be very much appreciated!

lyleswk

I know I would not quantify as a professional, but am an engineer with a long history with the B6, so I'll give you my thoughts.

UTPwniez

Thanks so much for your reply! Very informative and exactly what I needed to hear. I'll look into the ECU flooding more, but I'll be getting my timing belt replaced while I get my new snub nose mount in. It's deteriorated to ****

I have a water leak that seems to be leaking both free on and antifreeze out of a cross looking plug beneath the block. Any idea what that may be?

Again, I appreciate the response!

lyleswk

"Cross looking plug beneath the block" is not a description I am aware of. Also, you mention freon and coolant. Both would not be leaking from the same place and freon typically just evaporates. Is the fluid pink and sweet smelling and where exactly is it dripping?

Here are the usually coolant leak check suspects:

1) Coolant flange: this is at the back of the engine passenger side and leaks down onto the transmission and onto the ground. Doesn't sound like this is the issue.
2) J-Plug: On the side of the engine drivers side under the intake and behind the thermostat. Again, look for pink residue from above as this usually doesn't leak enough to make drips. Maybe your issue after you answer the where a little more clearly?
3)Thermostat: behind the alternator. Maybe your issue?

Unclescrooge