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D3 - Axles, Brakes, Suspension and Steering Brakes, Springs, shocks, steering racks, steering columns, suspension arms, wheel hubs etc.

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Old 21st February 2019, 08:58 PM
GH77 GH77 is offline
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Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Glasgow
Posts: 119
Default Steering rack conundrum

Hi,

I need to replace the steering rack on my 2009 and while Maria at A8 Parts was very helpful today our conversation was inconclusive. Therefore just wondering if anyone else can pitch in with experience and help, please.

Turns out that in the 2008 facelift the part number for the rack changed. PF was 4E2422065 and FL is 4E2422052 (both with various letter suffixes)

A8 Parts don't have a '52' in stock but are able to supply a '65'. A bit of research led me to the Bosch website and raises the question as to whether the part number change is simply down to a supplier change from ZF to Bosch. Bosch show their part number KS01002334 as being equivalent to both '65' and '52' variations. (see first attached picture)

I cannot confirm that my 2009 rack is Bosch as I've not had access to it yet. So the whole change of supplier theory might be a red herring.

However, it seems that the steering was tweaked in the 2008 facelift. What were these changes, does anyone know? Programming or mechanical? Or something else? Here's a couple of review quotes:

"The A8's rack-and-pinion steering, featuring a variable steering ratio and Servotronic power assist, has been optimized for a more direct feel. The car's adaptive suspension has been retuned, with the system's electronically controlled variable dampers fitted with new seals to reduce friction. The suspension also employs new valves and updated hydraulics -- all in an effort to further smooth out the luxo sedan's already impressive ride."

"the steering’s slightly more linear, the ride supposedly smoother (but still fidgety – especially if you opt for the sport package)."

Now, if you search for a replacement rack for a 2003 D3 (2nd attached picture) and a 2009 D3 (3rd attached picture) it seems to list the '52' part as being the one to go for. So, the big question is whether we know if a '65' part is forward compatible . . . . .

And to confuse things further here is a RHD rack for sale in Lithuania which was manufactured in 09/2009 and has the early part number 4E2422065K

£1495 from Audi (actual part) or £99 from A8 Parts (for '65' part) - you understand my dilemma


Thanks, Gregor.


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2000 FL A8 3.7 QS - Turned 21 years old on 15th March 2021. Ming Blue - 175k miles. I love having a 90's car worthy of 90L of 98 RON! If only they still did 4* fully leaded!

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477k miles to the moon and back. 238k to go and between them they'll have made it!

Last edited by GH77; 21st February 2019 at 09:16 PM.
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