banditoamigo

At the GTG mentioned below, Troy mentioned that there's a weird open spot under our typically-overengineered 2.7T German hoods. We took a peek under Rick's 4.2 hood to see if something occupied the spot (next to the power steering reservoir), and hey, presto!

Any ideas what this thing does?

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/77805/ar-mysterypart.jpg">

DAP@EPL

Vacuum pump for brake assist. My wife's 2.7 tiptronic allroad has it.

banditoamigo

Ah, makes sense as both 2.7's are sticks, and the 4.2 (obviously) ain't. Thanks!

happy allroader

What does type of transmission have to do with brake assist?

skidmark

sure there was something missing off his car because that spot was empty(mine didn't have it either because of being a 6 speed). He doesn't post on this board although I'm sure he would be glad to see this post. : )

Asgor

I suspect the absence of engine brake force - hence the tip brakes are on steroids

Trango

I'm not being contrarian here, but didn't the brakes get *weaker* post-02?

AudiForYou's 2.7T

6-speed drivers don't have it as they are generally better at directions :P

Asgor

Well, the calipers were "weakened", but the difference in boost between tip and MT stayed the same

allestraße

Part # 8E0 927 317A = Unterdruckpumpe = vacuum pump.