2.0 TFSI Cylinder Head Bolt Removal Interference with Exhaust Side Camshaft?

[craig.wilson1]

I have a 2012 Audi Q5 that I'm in the process of tearing down to replace the pistons/rings. I was hoping to be able to remove the cylinder head without removing the cam cover. I was able to slide the "sleeves" on the exhaust shaft to get access to all the head bolts. All the bolts are loose, but on the exhaust cam side, I'm only able to get the front bolt out completely so far. I've been attempting to get the remaining 4 bolts up and out of the cam cover access holes with a magnet, but I'm running into an interference where the top edge of the bolt (just barely) hits the exhaust camshaft; there doesn't seem to be enough "wiggle room" in order for the bolt head to clear the camshaft. Not sure if removing the cam bridge might allow for some play on the exhaust camshaft to allow removal of the bolts. I really don't want to take the cam cover off unless I have to. Any advice would be appreciated.

[StuckAntichris]

Honestly I would advise you to take the cam cover off and remove the cams. Just dont slide the exhaust cam lobes along the length and you should be able to get them back in no problem.

The reason behind removing the cam cover is that they are prone to leaking and it is not a fun job to do in the car. Since you already have the cam chain loose to get the head off you shouldn't be worried about timing. But if it leaks after you do all this work, keeping the chain in the right spot while you remove the cam cover requires special tools. And even then I don't really trust that the chain would stay on the crank sprocket.

All that to say, go ahead and remove and reseal the cam cover. There is a bunch more information on the A4 section of this site. If you can't seem to find it make a post over there for any specific questions and you'll get much faster responses.

[craig.wilson1]

I ended up taking the Cam Cover off. Just waiting on new pistons and other parts for reassembly.