My A4 110SE TDi crunches into 4th gear, why?

[macman1]

Hello,
My 1997 A4 110SE TDi crunches into 4th gear, why?

I have been told by 'a mate' that the syncro is broken, but it is only for fourth gear that it cruches.
Do gears have individual syncros?
It goes into gear no problem, just make a crunch sound when it does.

The car is not high miles as it has 'only' done 87500 miles and was regularly serviced.

Any ideas?
Thanks
Sean

[Alan02]

Hi,yes,the synchro ring for 4th gear is either worn out,or cracked in half etc.May help if you engage this gear gently for now.Not a common fault especially for that mileage.

[macman1]

Hello,

Thanks Alan. Is it cheaper to fix the box or replace it do you reckon?

If repairing, should I get the other syncros changed at the same time?

I know 2nd gear is a common fault?

thanks again! Sean

[Alan02]

Hi Sean,never had the misfortune of this problem myself.It all depends on what box you would replace it with,as in,is it a refurbished box itself or is it out of a scrapped vehicle? If you can locate a local mechanic capable of the job,maybe worth pricing both options.
If you do go ahead and get it repaired,get them to inspect the rest of the Synchros.It may be they are fine.You will not know till its stripped thats the thing.But you dont have to replace all if you want to keep costs down.You can go to extremes and throw new parts at it!Cheers!

[macman1]

Thank Alan,

My local garage owner used to work for VW and knows the engine well. I have asked for a quote for a repair, which he is still working out. I am sure he will check the other rings, but I will ask him to check.

I will keep the post updated for others.

[Alan02]

Good Luck,hope its not too expensive!