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DRC and problems

Posted: Thu Apr 30, 2015 9:19 pm
by ahoooga
How does DRC work ? ,

Do opposite corners of the car work together or is it side for side of the car ?

I have Two issues , front and back axles
Have a squeak on the back OS , and at the same time I've developed a thump on the front NS .

Rear OS , Initial investigation shows the rear noise is from the damper ram . this happens with forward/rearward motion and side to side motion as well . First thought was it was a bush or ARB bush. Damper doesnt appear to be leaking either.

Also developed a Front NS thump over the smallest of pot holes ( similar in sound to driving with a broken ARB) . Had something similar on the Front OS when I bought the car , which Audi Tamworth cured by draining and refilling the system ( according to them, but I wasn't paying, the seller was). An MOT tester mate has had the car on the ramp today , but cant find anything visually wrong with the front axle . No play in arms or bushes ect .
I'm wondering if DRC works on a diagonal or side to side basis on these cars. If its diagonal , then my problems are probably related. especially if its down to low pressure in the system.

Also noticed the car is sitting down a little and to one side at the rear OS , which is where the squeak is.
MRC cant get it in for a fortnight . I understand they are doing DRC work/stuff these days ( will confirm on the phone tomorrow)

Anyone priced a single damper unit from a stealer before ?

Re: DRC and problems

Posted: Thu Apr 30, 2015 9:39 pm
by p19dro
Yeah I'm pretty sure they are opposite corners, so that it levels the car in a tight corner by sending the compressed oil to the opposite corner. There is a rear OS shock for sale on eBay just now, I had my eye on it but ordered Koni's instead.

Re: DRC and problems

Posted: Fri May 01, 2015 8:41 am
by Daveperc
Your basic understanding of DRC is correct - diagonally opposed corners stiffen or soften depending on the loads on the system.

However, from the symptoms you describe I suspect you will need more than just the rear damper. When the system pressure drops (due to a leak) prolonged use damages the valve assembly so that it too needs replacing - that's the expensive bit. If you have no signs of a leak, and have the symptoms you describe, then I suspect you are right out of pressurised fluid, and have been for some time.

Of course you can buy a cheap set of coilies - they will be OK for a while, but can never fully replicate the handling of a working DRC.

Welcome to the world of RS6 ownership - it hurts the wallet, but rewards the rest of life with a fantastic driving experience!

Dave