Dude, are you crazy? 145k is not too much to upgrade the turbo. The K04 would treat your car better than the stock K03. I get tired of people thinking that Audis with 100k miles is too much. These things tend to run for awhile.

 

Potentially no there shouldn't be any shaft play.

 

well there should be a little play in there but not as much as my k03 had when i replaced it, it was about a 1/2 inch of play.
you should look on other audi forums andebay for a used ko3 sport if ur not going to upgrade.

 

OK, I've decided not to upgrade. I think I fould a great deal on a stock K03 from a 2000 A4. Other than these gaskets;
turbo to header gasket
turbo to cat gasket
turbo oil return line gasket
What will I need to do the job myself? Is there anything I can do to improve oil flow?

 

Don't know what price range you are looking at but there is a place we use quite a bit in San Bernardino area who can rebuilt your turbo for about $400 with all new parts.

PM me if it is in your price range. They can also upgrade your K03 for a little more money if your housing is in good shape.

 

ya If I'm not mistaken The worlds fastest 1.8t a4 has 150k on the stock motor. Tapp AUTO