Clutch going?

**int2str** · 06-24-2008 03:04 PM

Hey all!

I bought a 2002 A4 3.0 Quattro 6-speed a while ago with 72k miles. On a few hard launches early on I noticed the clutch slipped a few times quite badly. Somehow recently it hasn't slipped much anymore, but I still suspect it's going - or at least I'm hoping.

Now, at 95k miles on the odo, the car often shifts a bit rough. The new gear often engages with a "jerk" even with fairly delicate clutch work. Keeping in mind that I usually drive pretty, uhm, "inspired"?! But more importantly, I can feel and hear some "grinding" when I engage the clutch. The steering wheel will transmit some subtle vibes and I can hear a certain grind at a certain RPM range.

I can make this happen parked in neutral as well.

Here's my theory:
The clutch is worn and adjusted itself to the max (our cars have auto-adjusting clutches, right?). Now the clutch plates don't really disengage completely sometime and cause friction at certain RPM.

What do you guys think?
Could it be my transmission itself being busted?
Anything else that could be biting the dust?
Center diff?

Thanks!

**absolutegtr** · 06-24-2008 03:22 PM

I believe that the "clunk" you hear inbetween shift and even with delicate clutch work is either a bad snub mount, either of the two motor mounts or the tranny mount. Hell, I wouldnt be surprised if all 4 mounts are completely shot.

Look underneath the engine bay and see if you see some red fluid the motor mounts, and while you are under there check out the snub mount (it is probably crumbling away as I type).

**int2str** · 06-24-2008 03:38 PM

Hmm, sounds plausible.

Does anybody have a picture or diagram of the 3.0 motor where I can locate the snub mount and the motor mounts.

Also, are they all DIY capable or do the motor mounts require shop attention?