Hello all,
Newbie here and I have really found myself in a pickle with my 2007 Audi A4. My buddy and I thought we were intelligent enough to change the timing belt on my car (just hit 80,000 miles), but I'm pretty sure we completely messed up my timing and who knows what other damage we have done.

Long story short, I was wondering what is the best way to get the Audi to TDC without using the crankshaft, or if that is even possible? We had taken the timing belt off and during that process moved the crankshaft while the belt was off. Because of this, I'm 100% sure that our timing is way off because the crankshaft was moved while the camshaft, water pump, etc wasn't moved. I'm pretty sure at this point there is no way to put it back at TDC using the marks on the camshaft and covers.

I have tried to read all different forums to figure out how to get it to TDC but can't seem to find an answer that would work for my situation. I may be completely screwed but I'm hoping somebody on here may be able to save the day. Thank you much

 

Sorry, I didn't mention but this is a 2.0T engine.

 

Which direction did it move? With the belt off, it'll only shift by hand until it comes into contact with a valve (which is NOT enough force to damage it). Turn the crank back the other way until the mark lines up, make sure the cam is aligned with its mark, then put your old belt back on, tension it, and rotate the crank two full revolutions by hand. Go slow and listen for metal contact. You will encounter resistance as you compress each cylinder - this is normal unless you remove the spark plugs - but if you touch a piston to a valve, you'll hear and feel it and won't be able to turn farther. Make the two crank revolutions and realign the marks. If they all line up, you're good. Mark the cam backplate and the sprocket, ditto for the crank sprocket and oil pump housing. Then pull the belt and complete the job.