Exhausted with my exhaust...

[borabear]

Hi peeps

I a couple of problems with my A4 1.9TDI QS (PD130)

Firstly, the exhaust rattles..well resonates at idle.

I have had my local specialist who refitted my turbo have a look at it and there verdict was that the cause of the problem is a stiff flexi joint which is passing the engine vibration on to the exhaust which at low revs is amplifing the problem. Sounds pretty feasable to me with my modicum of knowlege.. However, the problem with this is that the only way to replace the faulty or stiff steel brade is to buy a new downpipe which is VERY expensive as it incorporates the CAT. Alternatively they suggested a De-Cat solution but, Miltek don't do one for the Quattro..... So, that leaves one final option, hack out the CAT and fit some In-Line flexi-brade in its place in the hope that it cures the problem.

Has anybody else experienced this problem? Is there another cure / solution to this annoying problem? As another issue I have is removing the CAT... As I fear that that in it self will cause problems i.e - More noise, smoke and emissions problems, not to mention the ECU throwin an eppy cause the NOX is too high...

Any opinions or advise would be greatly appreaciated.

Secondly (which mybe related to the first problem) I have recently had my turbo taken off and blanced + VNT cleaned at Turbo Dynamics as my engine was very flat power-wise and was making a "whoo-ing" noise when accelerating. I took it to my local specilaist who diagnosed a faulty turbo. (the reason for the turbo being faulty was down the the ****** MTM piece of crap already fitted to the car when I bought it) So, now the car is back complete with re-worked turbo and a proper nice progressive map. However, the "whoo-ing" noise isn't as bad but remains none the less particulary when the engine is fully warmed up. I have mentioned this to the chap who re-fitted the turbo but he says he has checked for vacuum leaks etc but its all tight. Has anybody here had experience of the same problem? Is there something really daft I have overlooked?

Again, adivce or pointers are very welcome as I have already spent over £1500 on the car since buying it!!

Cheers
Rich

[SebRogers]

I sympathise on the exhaust rattle front. I have exactly the same problem, except that mine occurs at 2100rpm instead of idle. Same cause, same expensive fix. I'm living with it until the CAT fails... but it must be hugely frustrating to have it happen at idle. Sorry I can't offer any practical advice.

The indy specialist who diagnosed the problem for me said that it wasn't that uncommon (and that Passats suffer from the same thing). If that's any consolation...