wtmmm

Yes, that sounds about right. I'm having both valve cover gaskets replaced on my '09 S6. My independent shop said it was probably about 6 hours to do both sides but he wasn't sure. One Audi dealer quoted $1,100 and another Audi dealer quoted $750 for parts and labor.

Also, I think the gaskets themselves cost about $130.

alvocado

The labor time guide to replace both valve cover gaskets is 2.9 hrs for my 2008 A6, 3.2L. I used Victor Reinz gaskets from Napa which cost about $45 total for both and they have been leak free for over 3 years.

MSAB84

If anyone requires a T30 Pivot Torx (as pictured) I have some available. I used this tool for the rear valve cover bolts and the tool is definitely worth its weight in gold!! Please feel free to direct message me if interested.

raj99

Yeah, not that special to require a PM since I referenced it in the thread earlier: https://www.audiworld.com/forums/a6-.../#post24429968
It's just a wobble extension which allows more flexibility.

Heck even HD sells it and you can buy these everywhere: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Bondhus-...8730/302015109

MSAB84

Hey, Don’t shoot the messenger....just putting it out there. Just trying to be helpful. I hadn’t seen a post using this tool so figured I’d put something out there.

On my S4, a socket+wobble+extension definitely did not fit!?

Also, HD doesn’t have this tool in Canada.

raj99

Had you read the thread you would have seen that there are alternatives out there and they work just as well, if not better...like I posted in this thread earlier.

If you are looking to sell your product, go post in classified, but don't spam for something that can be had at any decent h/w shop. As for being in Canada, I'm pretty sure Canadian Tire or Rona caries some form of these.

flamehacker

How can I find your tool on amazon?

TIA

hhegedus

The guy who made this about replacing the cam timing chain tensioners was emphatic that the valve covers would leak if the bolts were not replaced in addition to the gasket. A complete set costs $27-33 on Amazon, but there is no mention about a need to replace them in this thread nor have I heard it from anyone else. Does anyone reading this have enough experience or knowledge to say with confidence whether replacing the valve cover bolts is required or at least highly recommended? I do know the bolts contain a rubber grommet so it's at least plausible that replacement would be wise. TIA for all replies!

Sallad

I didn’t use any special tools to do them, I’ve done them on both my A6s, 3.2 and the 3.0T... as for the time, 7 hrs?! Holy crap, couple hours at most, that’s including 420 breaks and vodka drinks.

remove air box and tube, coil packs then take it off... how can anyone charge 7 hrs for that? Horrible.

kelisko

I removed my valve covers twice. The first time was to replace the top gaskets. The second time was to replace the bottom gaskets. The first time I did not worry about the valve cover bolts. The second time I ordered 4 replacement bolts because I stripped 2 of them bolts during the first job. When I compared the new bolt to the old bolt, there was no difference. The kind of plastic washer used is a hard one that feels like cut truck tire rubber. I'd say there's no need to replace them. Replace only the ones you strip the head of. Here is how I did mine: