thphon

Hey guys,

something I forgot, I do have plenty of records but before this thread didn't know what to look for. I'll review them and post what I find.
To tell you the truth, I never touched a car besides driving it, never knew where to begin. That being said, I'd like to get started at least with very basic things when they are needed. Is there a how to DIY guide?
In the sense, what do I need to own, in terms of tools and such, to get started.
I won't comment on the discussion on the K&N filter because I have no idea, but I guess everybody figured out that much already, hehe.

Thanks for the tips!

Prospeeder

Sorry for trashing your thread Most anything we talk about has probably been beat to death on most other forums too lol. So if your unsure on a subject just search around.

twentysevenlitres

Oh boy, where to start...
There's plenty of DIY's on this and other forums related to specific jobs, but not much in the way of teaching aids - Most DIY maintenance manuals contain a basic 'how-to' guide for most general maintenance. Quite how the Bentley manual (only one available for the A/S8 ) is in this regard I'm not sure.
Start by changing your own oil and filters (air and oil) and move from there as your confidence grows.

The basics you'll want in a tool kit are as follows:

• Screwdriver set (Flat Blade and Phillips)
• Pliers - flat and needle-nosed
• Metric Spanner (Wrench) set - combination open-end/ring is best IMHO
• Metric Socket set - 3/8" drive is a good DIY mechanics set
• Allen Key set - metric (actually, sockets are better than keys)
• Torx key set (again sockets are better)
• Oil sump drain pan (A/S8 doesn't require a filter wrench for the V8 )

You'll also want a trolley jack and a pair of axle stands at some point
So there's a bit of an investment as far as tools go, but if you've got the interest it's well worth it!

S8ilver

I agree, an oil change would be a great place to start. However, a 36mm socket will be needed to remove the filter housing. You'll also need access to get under there. I use Rhino Ramps, but it's still quite snug under there. Also keep in mind that an oil change requires ~8.5 quarts, so you'll need a very good sized collection pan (Mine was big enough, but couldn't keep up with the flow rate so I made a mess the 1st time). It really comes out fast!

Filter wrench:

http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/36mm/ES240945/

but any would do...

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss...+filter+socket

Ramps (usually pretty cheap at local auto stores too):

twentysevenlitres

Really?
Mine uses an 8mm or 10mm allen key!
Same one that fits the sump drain.
They're a really good idea!
I've got a set of the old metal ramps which are probably twice as high as those ones in your link - hardly ever use them as they're a bit dangerous to mount on a concrete floor!
For servicing I made myself a couple of service ramps out of some 8x1 timber stepped up two levels (so 2" lift) works a treat to get the undertray off and the drain pan under the sump & filter housing.

S8ilver

The allen key drain is inside the plastic 36mm plastic "nut." This drains the oil from the housing, but need the 36mm socket to actually remove the housing and replace the filter.

silverd2

Here's a good place to start for some basic procedures (including oil change. spark plugs, etc..) and some more advanced ones.

http://www.audipages.com/Tech_Articles.html

Even if you don't DIY on other more advanced repairs, a Bentley manual is a great educational tool that can pay for itself the 1st time you avoid getting ripped off by an incompetent and/or dishonest mechanic (more common than many care to believe) at a dealership or "Euro specialist" (< beware of that term). Appearing clueless sets off the cash register sound in their heads.

http://www.partsgeek.com/1tzwlhs-aud...ir-manual.html

The Bentley is not a beginners manual by any stretch...it assumes some foreknowledge. It is not written by Bentley Publishing...rather, it's all information directly from Audi...the same info supplied directly to Audi techs, minus the part #'s

If you get a check engine light, do NOT go to a mechanic...easy to check for free. Any Advance, Autozone, etc.. parts store will do a free code scan. Post the actual specific code numbers here (not the text) for an explanation of what you need to do.

Please check back here before you buy anything for your car or have anything done to it. All the D2-specific knowledge on this forum (sorely lacking with most "mechanics", including dealers) will steer you the best parts & suppliers at the best price and save unnecessary wallet drain.

Cheers

silverd2

I know it would be easier (and recommended) with the proper socket, but I've always used a big pair of channel-locks to turn off my filter cap....savage

S8ilver

Maybe you need one of these

http://gruvenparts.com/website/cart/...category_id=60

Not as dumb, but almost as dumb as those aluminum flap pivot arms to replace the plastic ones they claim "break" from wearing out. I'll have to admit though, a do like a nice machined aluminum part, even though entirely unnecessary (I'm an engineer by trade). Hmm, they only list for AUX engine. I thought AUX and AYS housings were identical??? (Can you sense I want one? )

silverd2

O-o-o-o...I like that! Didn't realize they were making those. I'd love to have one...just wouldn't want to pay for it

Maybe I'll hit em up for an "employee" discount. With my permission, they're using my tutorial on repairing stuck manifold changeover pivots, with their own notes added (in red) that tell you to replace the plastic arms with their metal ones. My plastic ones are still fine for now.

As I recall, I hinted at a future discount if I ever needed anything from them...don't recall getting a yes or no, though....hmmmm

Click on the red DIY note here >>>

http://gruvenparts.com/website/cart/...category_id=60

Original post >>>

http://forums.quattroworld.com/a8/msgs/44689.phtml

And, yes, the filter housings are the same on AKB, AUX and AYS engines.