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Oh the other thing I wanted to look into is tcm software version. I've read tsb's about software updates fixing problems and wondered where to start with that. Can I do any verification with VCDS or do I have to take it to the stealership?
You can read the software version in the transmission module, but then need TSB's or other materials to tell you if there was a revision. Only Audi dealer can actually flash it if there even is a change; it sync's to Audi central computers in the Vaterland. Fluid is your likely path here, plus an adaptation.
So I think I will go the route of draining and replacing filter. The manual explicitly says not to put weight on wheels with the crossbrace removed. With that said, I can put it up on 4 jacks easily enough. However....there doesn't seem to be an obvious place for the jack stands. Is under the control arm/frame connection an appropriate spot for front and back?
I never remember exactly from car to car, but yes jackstands under a major suspension bolt up point like arms are one of the places I go for. Best on audi's for me are typically frame/subframe bolt up points, but those may be blocked by other parts. You have to make sure the purchase is solid. Sometimes I find places like the arm bolt up points end up with parts that are at an angle to the floor/stand. If so, I worry the stand may move/slide under load.
I think I should mention the other symptom I'm having. There is a noticeable whine until about 1500rpm. This is agnostic of gear, happens in 1-8, park, neutral, reverse, or sport mode. Dealership thought it might be power steering pump, but they also said the engine has to be dropped to replace it...which is wrong...so I don't believe their assessment. Also, there is zero noise when turning the steering wheel, driving or standing still. After some research it seems to be one of two things: transmission fluid pump, or clogged transmission fluid filter. I can try to capture it on video, but it relatively subtle.
I think I should mention the other symptom I'm having. There is a noticeable whine until about 1500rpm. This is agnostic of gear, happens in 1-8, park, neutral, reverse, or sport mode. Dealership thought it might be power steering pump, but they also said the engine has to be dropped to replace it...which is wrong...so I don't believe their assessment. Also, there is zero noise when turning the steering wheel, driving or standing still. After some research it seems to be one of two things: transmission fluid pump, or clogged transmission fluid filter. I can try to capture it on video, but it relatively subtle.
Hmmm...does a 13 4.0T have a power steering pump?? My 2015 S8 is an electric rack...no pump.
Yes, whine not tied to gear like that could be PS pump--if it has one. Could also be alternator or water pump, and it does have those. Maybe even a serp belt pulley. And yes, could be trans oil pump too.
Net, need more diagnostics--plus review whether your year + motor still even had the hydraulic PS set up. Poking at things with an automotive stethoscope can help isolate a noise like this. Or the poor man's equivalent I have always used: a really long screwdriver with blunt handle end pressed up against ear and the blade touching the suspect part/pump, area near pulley, etc.
Hmmm...does a 13 4.0T have a power steering pump?? My 2015 S8 is an electric rack...no pump.
Yes, whine not tied to gear like that could be PS pump--if it has one. Could also be alternator or water pump, and it does have those. Maybe even a serp belt pulley. And yes, could be trans oil pump too.
Net, need more diagnostics--plus review whether your year + motor still even had the hydraulic PS set up. Poking at things with an automotive stethoscope can help isolate a noise like this. Or the poor man's equivalent I have always used: a really long screwdriver with blunt handle end pressed up against ear and the blade touching the suspect part/pump, area near pulley, etc.
Also, only happens with throttle. So if I put it in gear and let it roll, no noise.
There is a hydraulic fluid reservoir, so I assume it has hydraulic steering. I suppose water pump would be easy to diagnose since it's fairly accessible, but the alternator is stuck way in the back right? I suppose if it's either of those I can just live with it until they start showing other symptoms.
Any idea where to find out how many bolts and what kind for the cross brace? ETKA diagram is of little help as it shows only 4 different bolts, however there are 7 bolts on each side:
Bolts to remove (alldata):
Last edited by sushistrip; 11-15-2018 at 01:23 PM.
Still haven't figured out the bolt situation, but I've bought replacements for most if them so I'll just wing it for now.
After re-reading the manual, the other crossbrace (referred to as tunnel brace) has to come off. Common sense tells me that having the transmission supported solely by the engine isn't a good idea, but the manual makes no mention of supporting the transmission. Any thoughts?
10-25-2018, 01:58 PM
