CryptoTurbo

Well, I tried to install the RaceTec 4-point upper strut tie bar yesterday on my 2001.5 A4 1.8T. It can very close to fitting....but didn't. Unfortunately, for me, I bought it a few months ago before the recent postings that it will fit only up to MY2000 A4's and before EuropeanSpeed.com updated their website containing their review of the strut tower bar and added one very important line!

"2001 A4 requires a battery change in order for the brace to fit correctly."

Anyway, I can confirm that that battery on my vehicle is in indeed in the way; if the battery were a bit smaller or could be shifted more to the driver's side then the bar would fit without problems. I can also confirm that the install is very easy - just remove 4 bolts, put on bar, put bolts back.

Here are some pics:

One of the mounting points on the pass. side:

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/17545/upper_strut_tie_bar_-_one_mounting_point.jpg">


Driver's side mounting points:

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/17545/upper_strut_tie_bar_-_right_side_mounting_points_2.jpg">


Driver's side mounting points from another angle:

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/17545/upper_strut_tie_bar_-_right_side_mounting_points.jpg">


What it would look like:

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/17545/upper_strut_tie_bar_-_test_fitment_2.jpg">


Another angle:

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/17545/upper_strut_tie_bar_-_test_fitment.jpg">

~Gordon

2heretic

I'll trade ya my OMP 2 point bar.

CryptoTurbo

No thanks. I plan on selling it locally.

SameerP

i picked one up since everyone seems to like how it stiffens the front.

Cheers,
Sameer

2heretic

I would ahve traded but I won't drop the $$$ to buy antoher...can't see it making much of a diff. I've still got to pay for the RS4 Oil Cooler in the next few weeks.

Lambo-Bully

<center><img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/21967/pa040005.jpg"></center><p>We all know audi batteries aren't the best, right? I think this optima runs around $130....

Angry Alex

how hard is it to relocate the thing to the trunk?