Just bought a 1996.5 A4, 12v V6, SOHC. The lifter on #1 cylinder is in two pieces, with the bottom half still in the head, and the cam lobe on #1 is damaged from being hit repeatedly by the valve stem. Does this mean I have a bent valve? Should I go through the trouble of replacing only the cam, and risking not addressing a deeper cause for the damage? The previous owner had a mechanic replace the opposite head, then a month later had this problem show up. This may be the result of poor work or just a failed lifter. Could have been the mechanic did not install the timing belt correctly. Any ideas on the best approach? Car has not run since I bought it.

 

I think a bad timing belt job is a really good place to start. Whether your valve is bent or broken, either way it's going to be more than a cam and valve replacement. Either you or a trusted mechanic should strip it down to the timing belt apparatus and take pictures of the timing belt set up, 'cause my guess is it's off. Make sure your insurance people are with you on this, b/c if you're not doing the labor it's going to hurt your wallet.