nm3210

So ever since I've owned my car (some three years now) there has been a small vibration when accelerating and it has only gotten worse as the years/months/days go by. I got it diagnosed by an audi dealer (I wouldn't normally take it to them, but there were circumstances that benefited from me doing so) and they quoted the following:
Fair enough, but obviously i'm not going to drop a grand on this car that easily. Additionally, some threads of this happening to people: here, here. Many used driveshaft assemblies can be found on ebay and I am wondering a few things: 1) is there a "correct" driveshaft part number for my '99 A6 2.8l or can i use any of them that are for the C5 and appropriate engine (including 2.7?), 2) what is an estimate to how much would it cost if i, say, had an indy put it in? (i do not have the tools, not to mention if there's a u-joint problem), and 3) would it be a better idea to buy new CV joints to ensure that it will last longer? What all would that entail? Thanks for the help and I'd appreciate any advice!

nm3210

Bump! I'm hoping to get this done in the next couple of weeks. Again, thanks to anyone willing to give me their two cents!

4Driver4

Bump!
Viva la KAWF.

Johann2.7t

i think advanced automotion sells a remain or even one peice for $495 or something. Its too bad you dont have some tools its a pretty easy job, the hardest part is removing the exhaust.

nm3210

I guess I was concerned with the possibility of having to deal with u-joints and what not, so I shall ask: if I were to do this myself (I mean tools can always be found through friends and it's not a HUGE issue) would I have to do much other than unbolt it and bolt a new one in?

Redneck Truck

If you're talking about replacing and not rebuilding, it's as simple as pulling the exhaust system, pulling the heat shielding, undoing two 13mm carrier bearing bracket nuts and 12 insanely hard to loosen 6mm allen bolts at the rear and center diff. I used a 25" prybar as leverage on the allens and ruined two allen bits. Probably could have used some heat - about half an inch of red loctite on each screw when I removed them.

Johann2.7t

yeah other then getting the exhaust off (rusted couplers which i cut off) I just had my girl friend sit in the car and pop it in and out of neutral so I could get all the allen bolts out.

You will probably need new exhaust couplers and maybe a few new allen bolts if you strip them and need to cut them off.

Redneck Truck

I reused everything and I've got a rusty northern car. You'll be fine just take your time and don't get careless.