2.7 to 4.2?

[Snowman1080]

Sad day...my old truck finally died (beyond repair) and my 2.7T C5 Allroad isn't quite capable of towing my trailer

I've been contemplating trading up for a 4.2 Allroad. What are the downfalls of the V8? (besides the obvious mileage and whatnot)

I really don't want to get rid of my current Allroad (full on Kermit status), but having one car instead of a car and a truck would be nice.

Thanks guys!

[carmudgeon]

The 4.2 in the Allroad has the notorious timing chain on the back of the engine unlike the 4.2 in the S6. Although I'd be more worried about the transmission. ZF 5HP24's don't have a stellar reputation even when not used for towing.

[LakeTahoeQuattr]

I would just get a new 2.7t. There are plenty around all with 160+ compression for less than a grand

I would stay far away from the 4.2 unless the cam chain work has already been done

[mr_dave]

What are the downfalls of the [Allroad] V8?

[Snowman1080]

HOLY sh*t! Well, no 4.2 for me!!!!

[Snowman1080]

I would just get a new 2.7t. There are plenty around all with 160+ compression for less than a grand

I would stay far away from the 4.2 unless the cam chain work has already been done

My 2.7T just had its transmission rebuilt (including new torque converter), new timing belt, new water pump, new t-stat and housing, new front cam seals, and new spark plugs just went in. Car has 135k miles on it. I just don't want to destroy it by hauling a load of fire wood.

[carmudgeon]

I love that picture. I just had a friend that bought a used Audi with one of those time bombs and I showed him the same picture. His reaction was priceless.

[JTown77]

in most cases even when they fail it is not nearly as bad a belt failure. It is a concern, but so is turbo failure, oil leakage.

Maybe haul less and make more trips, I love my 4.2 allroad though, it hauls ass!

[mr_dave]

HOLY sh*t! Well, no 4.2 for me!!!!

Yeah, and that's the back, meaning you have to pull the engine for any repairs that need to be done to that timing chain system. It's the main reason I ended up with a (timing belt-ed) S6 Avant instead of the 4.2L Allroad that I originally wanted.

[4rings2turbos]

And your garage is a bit more BA for having an S6 and RS 6 as a pair. Haha

[LakeTahoeQuattr]

I am doing a 4.2 belt job right now. NO engine pull

[happy2B5]

The 4.2 in the Allroad has the notorious timing chain on the back of the engine unlike the 4.2 in the S6. Although I'd be more worried about the transmission. ZF 5HP24's don't have a stellar reputation even when not used for towing.

Pretty sure the hp24 would be better than the equipped hp19 in the 4.2 ar. I agree though, that trans is what I would be more leary of than the engine. At least thats my first hand experience.

My take on all the chain driven ticking time bomb vs twin KO3 shelf life is unless you are doing the work yourself you are still paying a shop for an engine pull regardless. Yes you are likely upgrading with the 2.7t turbo replacement and with that comes supporting fueling, tuning, smics, clutch, etc, etc. It really is more than the cost of the turbos...I do think people forget this little fact and it adds up quick! That said, you have one badass allroad. Both have their merits imo. Its a lot like every B5 S4 being a maintenance nightmare and unreliable. I have had good experiences with both my 2.7 and 4.2 vehicles. Service when needed and performed by competent people whether that be you or a shop. Take your pick.

[4rings2turbos]

You're right about the engine pull, no biggie: shop cost or personal time. The only thing keeping I from being a chain 4.2L slam dunk is the parts are very pricey for the budget minded DIY-er. Finding good K03s or having yours rebuilt comes in a good bit cheaper than chain bits. If you're going stage III? Well then you're digging your own grave lol.

I don't own a 4.2, my guess is that the chain isn't that common of an issue.

[happy2B5]

I hear ya, with the updated and newer timing components, it is highly likely to be one time and done if needed. Like I said, both have ups and downs. Pick your poison

[Snowman1080]

Thanks all for the info!
Ended up finding a steal of a deal on a '77 3/4 ton Chevy P/U. No more towing issues :)

Sticking with the 2.7. Given the recent maintenance, it should hold up for a while longer.

Cheers