JacobB

I have heard mixed stories that special tools are required to lock the cams? I have a Bentley manual, a nice set of tools, and I know my way around cars fairly well but I haven't done anything this extensive on any Audi before. Is it a job better left to the pros or is it something I can do myself?

evils4

replace water pump and tensioner while you are in there.

QCRAZY

"You can do it"

paulroad

simply because its is so possible to screw it up, an unknown turn of the cam shaft or crank and you can have pistons hitting the valves. (interference engine) which can result in cracked valves, destroyed pistons, broken connecting rods.. etc. BLOWN ENGINE.

Its' one of those repairs that unless you have done a lot of engine work, have a lot of patience, and are meticulos about your work... is best left for someon who can be FINANCIALLY RESPONSIBLE for their work.

bison

would you change the water pump even if everything was ok?

JacobB

It includes all of the following for $250

-Timing belt
-Idler roller
-Tensioner Roller
-Water Pump
-Thermostat
-Accessory drive belt

Other than the possibility of the cam shafts moving it's not too tricky right? If I could buy the 2 cam locking tools for $350 each or find someone who would let me borrow them then it wouldn't be very hard would it?

If I do take it to a pro and do provide all of the parts necessary how many hours of labor am I looking at?

evils4

I guess it depends on the mileage

evils4

I would buy that kit and have someone do the labor...like paulroad said there is alot to go wrong. You are prob. looking at something like 10hrs labor....depends where you go. The audi manual says the front end needs to be removed but there are ways to get around it which will save a few hrs

RKA

It's not critical, but if you're already in there, it's another item that might fail before the next timing belt change.

Labor cost would be 8-10 hrs at an independent mech.

QCRAZY

Changing the waterpump is the most important part, IMHO.