Audi S8 V10 Blowing Exhaust

[samastonlongley]

I wonder if anyone could help. I’m trying to help a friend out who’s recently bought a 07 plate Audi S8 and since purchasing the car has developed a blowing exhaust. Now I’m told by the owners the blow is from the joint after the manifolds, I’m presuming either the back end of the manifold or the next joint along, the owners inform me that to replace the gasket it involves taking the engine out. Is that really necessary or is there an alternate way, I know the engine coming out would possibly be the easiest and best way but I’m wondering if there is an alternate method they could try. It’s not the exhaust manifold gasket that is blowing but the next joint down. Any help would be greatly appreciate.

[anonymous-user]

Probably the flexible hoses.... You can either buy new parts and whip the engine out to replace them (£5K all in) or have them replaced by a decent exhaust fitter / welder (I paid £300 for the pair).

[samastonlongley]

AnotherUsername said:

Probably the flexible hoses.... You can either buy new parts and whip the engine out to replace them (£5K all in) or have them replaced by a decent exhaust fitter / welder (I paid £300 for the pair).

Are the flexible hoses a common problem? Is it common for them to split I take it? Is that the only way to remove them by taking the engine out? Can it not be done leaving the engine in place and removing inner wheel arch panel and inlet manifold perhaps?

[Dr G]

The flexis are common to go on S4s too; we also use a local exhaust builder to replace them.

Audi's atitude tends to be replace, not repair.