Folks, <br>In the continuing saga caused from chipmunks stashing acorns in my timing belt, the service department has uncovered additional damage to valves, etc. So, all of those components have to be replaced. Fortunately, and quite impressively, I might add, Audi is covering the expense. However, I'm alittle concerned about the fact they have to send the cams or something out for boring to make a perfect fix with the new valves. The dealer seemed to indicate that boring is common, but I wonder if there will be any problems that result from this, like oil leaking, etc. Has anyone ever had this type of service done, either on an Audi, or some other vehicle? Is this usually not a big deal? Should I be ready for additional trouble later? Thanks in advance for any info.<p>98 2.8 QMS

I would have preferred to send these comments in e-mail, but you didn't list your e-mail address.<p>Do you know what the cam does and what it looks like? When you understand the various components and what they do, I don't think you'll be too nervous about the work being done. I admit I'm a little confused about boring the cams, but I will say that I don't think there's anything they can do to the cams to cause a leak. The cams are internal engine parts that merely push the valves open.<p>Anyway, to see some illustrations of these engine parts and how they work together, I recommend the website listed below. Pay particular attention to the sections on <b>Valve Train Arrangement</b> and <b>Cylinder Head</b>.<p>Pardon me if this is all old news to you.<p>Drew S.<ul><li><a href="http://www-personal.washtenaw.cc.mi.us/~eileen/agenda.html">The Internal Combustion Engine</a></li></ul>

Thanks for the comments.<br>It may not be the cams that need to be bored, but the cylinders. I don't recall from the phone call, exactly. My email address is pweeks@monmouth.com<br>Not knowing much at all about engines, and assuming that Audi engines are probably more complex than most, I'm just a little concerned about niggling problems that may result from this. But, it helps to hear that there shouldn't be too much to be concerned about.<p>Thanks.<br>

I have had my Rabbitt Diesel engines bored and oversized cams put in them. Usually the cylinders are bored out due to excess damage which causes the compression to leak past the rings on the pistons. The cylinder walls are bored to get rid of the pits in them, and make the walls smooth again. Oversized pistons are then installed to make up for the new larger sized cylinders. I would expect this to be a .20mm increase in size on the bore and pistons. On the bright side, you should have a slight increase in power due to the larger cylinders and pistons. :-)

My 95 bmw 740 developed a little blow by at 20,000 miles. BMW replaced the engine this past Feb. 38 hours shop labour , new engine, perfect job- no charge! I would demand that Audi do the same if our 98.5 2.8 was a problem.You should expect no less. <br> PS both cars great !<br>ross

...since the problem originally was not a manufacturers defect, it may be best to just to let them do what they offered. Otherwise, they may just drop the deal completely and not pay for anything. Also, as mentioned above, the engine may end up slightly more powerful, and it will still be covered under warranty. If they do something wrong, it will most likely show up right away.<p>Charles<br>

Folks,<br>Just wanted to say that I appreciate the information regarding this issue. I too wondered in a new engine would be in order. However, I do not want to rock the boat, considering it wasn't a manufacturers defect, unless you consider that animals should not be able to get to such a vital area a defect...hmmmmm. My major concern was whether this boring was something that is pretty routine, meaning I won't hvae too much to worry about in terms of little engine problems, like oil leaking, and it appears that it is. I'll let you guys know how things turn out, when i get the car back in a couple of weeks. BTW, kinda excited about the possible increase in power.<p>98 2.9??? QMS.<br>