Maureen, I just had the same problem on my 86 Syncro and I too panicked,
but only for a moment. I quickly realized that it would be a pretty poor
design if you had to replace an engine every time oil drains got
stripped. Since I had never dealt with this problem before, I took it to
my mechanic and watched him drill out the old drain, then use a tap (a
drill bit type tool) to make new threads in the case. Next the heli-coil,
which looks like a small spring, is threaded into the new hole with a
special tool, job done. Cost me $40 and took about 15 minutes. Make sure
the mechanic is careful to remove all the metal from the drilling before
you refill with oil, this can be done by pulling the shavings out with a
vacuum and flushing with oil. You could buy the kit to do the job
yourself for about $35 dollars.

You don't need a new engine, stay away form the dealer that told you
that. Any mechanic that can find his way to work without his mom in the
car can repair a messed up thread.

First ya panic, then e-mail the list, then armed with knowledge, go deal
with your mechanic...and don't let them charge you an arm and leg for a
simple fix. Someday you may even want to try to do this job yourself, I
did, just fixed three holes for my exhaust manifold.

Steve and Jo Ann Wacker
San Marcos, Ca.
90 Carat
86 Syncro
86 Audi 5000 CS Quattro

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