I took my car in to have the valve cover replaced today (Oil leak - 2 VC gaskets replaced already - they decided to put in a whole new cover)and they said that when they opened it up, there was a gasket that was loose and contacting the timing chain. I only spoke to the service manager; when I asked exactly what parts were involved and how serious this was, he replied that he had no idea on both counts (BComm like me I guess). I have to go in in about 1/2 hour to pick it up or leave it overnight. I'd like to go in armed with some info. If anyone can tell me which (exactly) parts would be involved, how serious this is, what could have caused it (My car was leaking oil before I put my chip in), etc. I'd really appreciate it.

Thanks,
Mark
99.5 1.8tqms, 10000miles, APR and K&N at around 8500, Mobil 1 at 5000.

Don't mention the chip!!!!!!!! they will void you for sure. They tried that with my car a 98 a41.8t with 19,000 m on it. My timing belt tensioner went bad and so they had to replace it with the belt. They then test ran it to find out that it was chipped. In the end they could not prove for certain that the chip did it but they told me that Audi views altering the ecu just the same as voiding out your entire drive train and engine.

They obviously installed the first gasket incorrectly. It is no big deal, since the gasket is a lot softer than the chain. You certainly are not at fault, and the gasket is a known failure item.

gasket (I believe the mechanic said it was on the cam or something) and said that I didn't need the new valve cover, as the little gasket had been causing my oil leak. So hopefully everything from here on in will be all roses (as everything else has been with this car).

Thanks for your help,
Mark