LeifTT

My 180FWD is an early production model, more spesific: #5507 in 1999 (year X).

I have previously discovered that Audi changed gear oil (from synthetic to mineral) from approx X 13500, and the turbo bypass valve from X 12400.

Looking under the hood/bonnet of a 180Q I discovered a stabilizer mounted between the top of each suspension strut. Asking my dealer why my 180FWD dont have one, he told me (info from the official parts catalogue) that the stabilizer was an "add-on" from the factory (meaning: not originally planned), and more importantly (ARGH!!), that the add-on started from VIN X 6000.

My question is therefore:

Why not the first 5999 cars?
Is it possible to add the stabilizer to my car?
Has AUDI once again changed/added parts without informing their customers? (I had figure it out myself about the gear oil and the bypass valve).

I know that this is not relevant for you US-owners (2000 models ->), but are there anyone out there who can help me?

BTW: Is it true that the first 5000 TTs produced were given to the employees of the Gyor plant for "test driving", and if so, perhaps the add-on stabilizer was a result of that?


LeifTT

Jenner

Added weight, power applied to all four wheels, different weight distribution etc.

I could be wrong here, but I don't think ANY FWD's have this part. I think its found only on Quattros. Go look at new 2000 FWD. I bet it doesn't have it. If it does, then you need to talk to your Service Manager.

-Jenner
'00 180QX TT Garrett

John S

Audi said it was done for a USA impact test & they are not going to retrofit older Euro cars

Jim Torongo

I have a FWD and it does have the stabilizer in question. JIM

Jenner

Ah, my bad(but the Q does have other suspension differences right?)

y2ktturbo

At the SE (US) TT Rally, we had 2000 model year VINs 247 and 46x. Mine is 4949 and others were closer to 10000 (Quattros).

We walked around comparing, all had the stabilizer bar and it appeared to be exactly the same on FWD's and Q's.

I believe LeifTT is talking about European TT's. If I were you, bro, I would fight for it. It's got to be a 10 minute install and a cheap part.

Ivan

Jim Torongo

FWD has a torsion beam axle with trailing arms. One of the reasons the Q is a better handling car. JIM

John S

This question and more were posed to Audi reps on Oct 31. Link is:
http://www.tt-owners-club.de/news/31-10-99-1.htm

Q#18) [bad AltaVista translation]
It intended is that in the context of the re-tooling internal message all TT's receives
a uniform body structure? Meant the inserted cathedral prop, which substantial influence
on body firmness and handling has, is " here tacit ".

A#18) In the context of the type testing in the USA a so-called threshold test
(speed more breaker) is required. Around this test, which is exclusively relevant for
US vehicles, the so-called cathedral prop was inserted. This does not serve for the
optimization the body rigidity and has influence on the topic handling Audi TT. therefore
is also a subsequent installation of the cathedral prop not intended.<ul><li><a href="http://www.tt-owners-club.de/news/31-10-99-1.htm">http://www.tt-owners-club.de/news/31-10-99-1.htm</a</li></ul>