Hey guys, I drive a 2003 3.0 a4 with 75k, after some searching, im pretty sure my throw out bearing is bad. I can hear a knocking sound when the clutch is down to the ground. (even in neutral). Clutch def. slips and my whole car vibrates. i can even feel the vibration as soon as the car is started. So I realize that I'm in for a expensive repair, but would love some suggestions on the following:..... 1.) What other components should be replaced here (clutch, flywheel, etc.)?
2.) Should replacment parts be oem or after market?? (does it pay to get a upgraded clutch and parts, and whats good?)
3.) Would you try to drive the a4 to the shop or just get it towed?
4.) I want this to be done right, any other suggested maintenence that could be done while they have it apart? (75k).... I know timing belt/water pump is in the near future, I was gonna wait till about 90k, but now am wondering if i should just go all out, especially if i can get any type of deal for such a large job?//[&:] .

I know I have a lot of questions but thanks for your time!!

 

Well, my personal philosophy has always been to never replace when you can upgrade, on the idea that if OEM parts are good for the car, and handle what your driving dishes out, then stronger aftermarket gear often can be better (there are exceptions of course). I don't see anything wrong with upgrading the clutch if you can on that car - a mild upgrade may cost about the same as OEM from the dealer.

Since the transmission is coming out, I'd have everything inspected (of course) and change the TOB, clutch, and at least resurface the flywheel (is that recommended for a 3.0? I'm not sure). You might consider replacing some of the sensors and vacuum lines on the back of the engine, as there may be much easier access to them with the transmission out. If you're getting noise from the hubs, it wouldn't be a bad time to replace wheel bearings, since a lot of that disassembly will be done as well. Check your mounts out too - might be an opportune time to see if they're cracked or leaking down, and replace them as well. Same for O2 sensors.

As for doing your timing service, if they're willing to cut you a break by having so much done, you might as well get it out of the way all at once instead of having your car down twice this year. However, make damn sure they know what they're doing with this stuff before you authorize any work. If they screw up, it could cost you plenty to fix it and there's no guarantee you will be able to recover costs from them.

 

Thank you for the input, it is def. helpful, I will get price quotes from a specialist and the dealership but my audi dealership is awsome and if they can help me out with out completley killing me, i will most likely use them. Thnx Again!!