Big Ends :(

[Gozza]

Ello,

Any one have a definate way of telling when the big ends have gone ??

Also how the fook do you get the alternator belt off ?

Thanks all

[AudiA8Quattro]

Knackered big ends = knocking worsening under load.

As for the alternator belt, what engine?

[Gozza]

Under load, right I will look for that when I drive it next.

1994 8v Mark 3 engine, has a spring under the alternator by the look of it.

[AudiA8Quattro]

I think you need to push down on the alternator somehow.
Bentley manual shows as special tool to do this.
I've never worked on that system, but i should image there is a way to do it without the tool, even it meant making something.

[rubjonny]

I loosened the bolts then stood on the alternator 

[Gozza]

Stood on the alternator lol, I have an image of "Mini Me" now from Gold member heheh.

I may er try that 

[rubjonny]

just put your foot on it and put some weight on it, just enough to get the belt swapped

I tried to remove the old belt with the engine out of the car, in the end I gave up and chopped it 

[Len]

If the big ends are gone - you will hear it!

You dont say how old the engine is and the mileage. And if its been modified.

[Gozza]

Its ok I decided there was an easy way to learn if it wa sthe big ends rather than remove the alternator belt. Got a metal pipe and put on bottom of eangine and alternator, alternator fine, big ends bad. Bought the car from someone I know for a small ish amount, thought I hada bargain but the nobhead drove it with no oil so obviously shafted it. Not too bad and not all that loud but give it time, booo. Any idea how long they can last if you have the noise starting ?

Car has done 118k with fsh, he such a muppet. What a spoiled mark 3.

[Len]

Well I wouldnt rev it much!

But really if its knocking you should get it done soon as!
I have known folks keep em going a long time if yer just pottering around, but whats the point of that? Surely ya wanna use its full power?