Tell me all about these gearboxes...

[CliveH]

I've read the sticky and can see that these are problematic on these cars, especially if not serviced regularly. But, as usuaul, a few questions...

Is the weak point on these the gearbox or the torque converter?

Is this only difference between the S8 and A8 gearboxes the final gear ratio or is the S8 a stronger box?

I know that the similar RS6 (C5) box fails due to level of torque on that car, but what is the main reason for failure on the A8/S8?

When they do fail, I would assume that replacement is as cost effective as a rebuild, but do you replace with the same box/torque converter or is there a better solution?

Thanks in advance

[Conan_the_Librarian]

Originally Posted by CliveH

I've read the sticky and can see that these are problematic on these cars, especially if not serviced regularly. But, as usuaul, a few questions...

Is the weak point on these the gearbox or the torque converter?

Is this only difference between the S8 and A8 gearboxes the final gear ratio or is the S8 a stronger box?

I know that the similar RS6 (C5) box fails due to level of torque on that car, but what is the main reason for failure on the A8/S8?

When they do fail, I would assume that replacement is as cost effective as a rebuild, but do you replace with the same box/torque converter or is there a better solution?

Thanks in advance

Its not the box it's the service protocols. The 4 speeds are bullet proof and have a service schedule. The 5 speeds are 'filled for life' (which is tosh). Service them regularly and they can go on for ever.

The A8 and S8 have different ratios in the box and the final drive. You can switch boxes between them but you must switch final drives as well.

Main reason for failure is lack of servicing.

On failure a new box will cost about 8k. A full service at a ZF specialist between 1.5 and 2.5k. A replacement box from A8parts = A lot less.

There is no better 'bolt on' solution. However, a 6 speed manual!!!!!!!

[CliveH]

Many thanks for that, very informative

So the key to finding a 'sorted' car (at least in the gearbox department) is evidence of regular servicing of the gearbox, but from what I've read that will be as rare as hen's teeth if the Audi servicing regime has been followed

Now a 6 speed manual, that is interesting but I guess those are not easy to come by but is there something from another Audi/VW that will bolt on, such as from a C5 A6?

[Conan_the_Librarian]

C5 S6 would do it. Need Rear Diff as well. Custom prop and fabricated pedal cluster and clutch actuating system.

Easier still a written off LHD S8 6 speed from the continent. (By easier I mean still fecking hard)!

[Singh]

C5 S6 has the same ZF auto as the A8, didnt come in manual at least not in the UK for sure..

[jmw748]

Before my gearbox rebuild, Ian found me a few manual 6 speed boxes on Ebay Germany. All around the 1K to 1.5K Euros cost. With all the other work involved to make the car manual, I plumped for a guaranteed gearbox rebuild!

[CliveH]

How does the cost of a rebuild compare to fitting another one?

Is this a better route to go as presumably a rebuilt box, if serviced properly, will last for a long time whereas there is no guarantee how long a used one will last or how it was cared for in the previous car?

[PsYcHe]

Rebuild is about the same price as getting a swap for a remanufactured job.. about 2k fitted.

The 01E / 01X 6-speed manual bolts directly to any V8 block - 3,6, 3,7 4,2L 32/40V without any issues.

The manual transmission, both 01A 5-speed, and 01E 6-speed are multi-fitment, i.e will bolt to ALL Audi blocks, from I4 to V10. The only exception as far as V8 fitment goes, is the C5 RS6, which due to the massive torque converter (shared with the the W8 VW Phaeton) means the block has a different bolt pattern to regular V8's, and requires a slightly different approach to run an 01E.

[Singh]

What model where the 01E 6-speed boxes fitted to? Any for sale?