Tools&Parts
 

Greetings;

Just bought an A6 Quattro wagon - 1998 2.8. It has needs but I couldn't contain my enthusiasm and bought it anyway.
Questions:
1) I have a pretty good toolbox - what specialty tools come in most handy when working on the Audi?
2) I've seen a great deal of disparity in parts prices. For example, I can buy an axle assembly for less than a cv joint.
I also need rear wheel bearings - dealer's price $320 online price $45. Are there online retailers to avoid or engage?

Thanks

RE: Tools&Parts
 

Assuming your tool kit is metric, and automitive based, you probably have most, if not all of what you need. One handy tool to have, though (if not already in your arsenal) is: http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=40732 which you can also find for $5-$10-cheaper on ebay. You'll also want (if new to VAG, and don't already own one) a: http://www.ross-tech.com/or: http://www.obdtool.com/?gclid=CIn1-e...FSG8GgoddF_N7w same basic tool, different price/vendor. Maybe swing by: http://www.bentleypublishers.com/audi and pick up their repair manual on CD, again, if you are not already in posession of same.

RE: Tools&Parts
 

also buy some hex sockets, torx, and triple squares.

RE: Tools&Parts
 

Thanks guys.

I've a Bentley manual and VAG tool arriving today. Once I get to look at some of the processes I'll add some hardware to the box. I'm in ID and it sounds like the first big job on the car will be some sort of center bearing to the back drive. It has a high-pitch whine but not so much of a low-end grind. Audi service thinks it should cost a grand. I think less.

Cheers

Uh-Oh - '97 or '98?
 

Well there you have my best plan -
It took about 30 seconds reading my manual before I discovered there are two different engines in the '98 and that my car, VIN tag designates it as a '98 was built in June of 97. Goodbye dual overhead cams -AFC instead of AHA.
Do I need both manuals? I don't have the tiptronic - which I knew - but what about the rest of the chasis, brakes, drive train part numbers - all '97 parts or is this a bastardized combination of C4 and C5?