Any harm to short periods above the red line when accelerating rapidly? Also, does the computer cut power automatically to protect the engine if you are above the red line a significant amount or for prolonged periods?

Well, it is red for a reason. There is notmuch to gain going beyond it, the engine ispast its peak power. I'm sure there is a specific rpm when the ECU will begin to inhibit what your right foot is doing. During acceleration, if the engine is wandering into the red zone when you clutch in, just anticipate it and do everything a little bit earlier so that the tach stays in the black. It shouldn't hurt your acceleration and in the end your engine will be better off.

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tim
08 Avus Silver RS4 w/titanium pkg

It wasn't an intentionalred line accleration. Gave first some extra gas and before I could catch it I was at 8500. Seemed to catch a little so I guess it cut the power.I doubt a momentary blip will do much harm. Need to be careful at the upper rpms, the can sure get away from you quickly.

Well if your chipped, the rev limiter usually is increased and you COULD go over the red line on the tach, while this may give you more speed in between shifts the stock valve springs are only designed to stay within the red line so if you go over it too much you could "float" the valves and hit the piston.[:@]
If this happens trust me you'll know it.

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00 A4 1.8T

01 S4 SOLD!!!