I have a 1997 A4 with the 2.8 engine.

I am attempting to replace a coolant tube that mounts to the front of the engine just above the oil pan seam. It traverses across the front of the engine. It has two metal tabs that bolt to the area just above the front seam of the oil pan. The metal tube is "Y"ed on the drivers side and single outlet on the passenger side. The part number is 078-121-081-J

I have all the hoses off and the pipe unbolted but I can't see how to slide it out. And conversely to slide a new one in. The mounting tabs are in the way. It seems to be impossible to slide it towards the passenger side as the two airconditioning tubes are in the way.

The tube is behind an item callled the Front Torque Rod which is held on by three bolts. Haynes manual page 2B-21. However in reading the manual on this part it looks like you have to remover most of the radiator mouning and front end to get the cover off.

The mounting tab on the passenger side of the tube prevent it from going behind the torque rod mounting area. I have the oil filter off and the coolant hose off of the oil filter housing. Can the tube be removed by directing it towards the drives side of the car?

So I am stuck. I am fortunate to have a car lift to work from, but what is the trick?

I can distroy the old one getting it out. But getting the new one in will be the problem.

Is ther an online service manual that would give me the step by step on this service?

Any help would be appreciated.

 

I know what your talking about. but I havent had that off in years. I will try and find some pics that might help. also takeing the bumper off is not that big a deal and will grant you alot of room. It is held on by two bolts that you can get to by removing I believe it is the center lowre grill insert and then pulling the bumper forward. Dont forget to disconnecet the headlight washer hose.

 

Can anybody help me on this problem?

 

Well the local dealer helped.

I have to do the service clip. i.e. slide the whole front end forward to get to the front torque damper. Removing the damper will allow the tube to be removed and replaced.

I am familiar with VW GTI's and they are relatively easy to service. This A4 is very tightly packaged.

But at least I can do it.

Whew.

Next is the squirter situation.

Oh well!