Zumkopf

I managed to get the old one out after a bit of maneuvering and tugging, without disassembling anything major. However, while I got the new one into the recess, I can't seem to get it twisted upright so the bolt can go through it. Is there a trick to this, or do I have to bite the bullet and drop the whole upper suspension?

Marty
'98 A8Q 100k

diogeniS8

from what I know you should have removed the whole assembly

A8CT

yes, check my procedure on audipages.com, subframe must come out

Zumkopf

I gave up and dropped the strut and then the subframe. On the left there are only three bolts holding the subframe, so it wasn't that difficult. Once it was out, of course, installing the links was a breeze.

Now, a different practical question. The Bentley manual says not to tighten any of the link bolts until you put the weight on the wheels. Since I'm working in my driveway and can't readily get in there from underneath, I put a block of wood under the wheel carrier and jacked that up until the weight came off the jackstand. That way I could access the bolts through the (still open) wheelwell. Is there anything wrong with doing it that way?

JimR

Sounds more than reasonable to me.

-OvO-

I'm not completely sure what the reasoning is behind that requirement, unless it is simply that the bushing is going to spend most of its lifetime in the "at rest" position, and it will be under strain (and wearing out) any time it is displaced from that "at rest" position.