there's no thermostat on there, which explains why yours is probably failing...also, the water pump should be changed if you have an '01

 

I have a 97, sorry for not saying that, so i should be ok with the water pump right?

 

well, if you can afford it (~100-125 bucks iirc), it's a good idea to replace it while you're doing the thermostat, just for piece of mind...

 

well ill have to see, but ill try to buy one. any other suggestions? also idk if you have seen my thread about my engine clicking, but if i could direct you there, a response would be greatly appreciated, becuase im not sure if i should be worried, as in take it to a shop to let them have a listen, or just try changing oils, using better gas etc.

https://www.audiforums.com/m_102068/tm.htm

 

sent ya a pm, sounds like the normal audi tick from what you described

 

Water pump would be a good idea to change & yes.. it will be your thermostat thats cactus. I agree with Headshok..... Only OEM

 

im curious what ended up being the problem, im getting similar symptoms now? correct me if im wrong people but if the thermostat was broken wouldnt there be no heat comming through the inside heating system (without A/c on) ?

 

This is a totally classic example of why you should do it all together on a timing change. Timing gets replaced next week it is the thermostat, week after that it is the water pump. And you are rebuilding your engine face 3-4 times in a year. Lesson to everyone else. I would replace water pump with thermostat. 97's last a little longer with the water pump, but not forever... it could make it to the next timing change but why risk it, you might end up in middle of nowhere montana with a bad water pump (he he personal experience)
I think it has already been determined but yeah you have a bad thermostat or a super low thermostat (because someone thought that would be a good idea and was really wrong. That is a big prob with aftermarket too it Audi built the car to run at a certain temp for a reason... don't mess with it. (If you have a lot of heat inducing mods you can mess otherwise no)

 

Ticking noise, probably you have something hitting the timing belt. Common problem for guys that do it themselves. the timing covers are a tight fit and when people who are not Audi mechanics put them back together, they like to torque things down tight (cause it is better right...) and there are a few key plastic pieces that they get too close. Also try an overly tight timing belt. Down at the crank is a piece that is really common to get a rub on. Also on the dohc the left side (passenger) sometimes gets put behind this little notch (cause it fits better) and it really goes between that notch and another one on the right side. For better tracking down noises, take a piece of heater hose (rubber 3/4" water line) about 2-3' long and put one end at your ear and the other use it like a stethoscope. You can really track down a rub fast that way.

Since you are replacing the thermostat soon, you can find rubs that way too... look at all the plastic you take off and see what looks surprisingly cleaner.

HEY THIS IS IN THE WRONG SPOT!!