Removing and installing balance shaft: Audi A8 D3 (ASB, AUK, BDW, BDX, …)

🧭 Before you start

Fits: Audi A8 D3 (4E, 2002–2010)

• Timing position: the crankshaft or camshaft is set and locked during this job
• Special tools named: locking pin

Don't miss

• Disregard (arrow).

🔧 Engine codes this applies to

🔩 Torque settings

Values can differ between engine variants — check the code stamped on your block.

ℹ️ Always cross-check the exact figure against your vehicle's factory manual before final tightening — a wrong torque can damage the engine. These values are extracted from workshop data and may not cover every variant or revision.

📐 20 workshop diagrams for ASB

Real factory drawings for this job — timing marks, bolt locations and routing. Locked in the free view.

📋 Procedure

1. Release quick-release fasteners (1) and (2) and take off front and rear noise insulation.
2. Place used oil collection and extraction unit V.A.G 1782 under engine.
3. Drain off engine oil.
4. Remove engine (see the separate procedure).
5. Separate engine from gearbox (see the separate procedure).

6. Secure engine to engine and gearbox support , or leave engine on scissor-type assembly platform VAS 6131 A.
7. Remove sealing flange (front) (see the separate procedure).
8. Remove drive plate (see the separate procedure).
9. Remove timing chain covers (see the separate procedure).
10. Attach special wrench T40049 at rear end of crankshaft using two old securing bolts for drive plate. [Note: Disregard (arrow).]
11. Lay a cloth beneath sump (top section) to catch engine oil.
12. Unscrew plug from sump (top section).
13. ⚠ To avoid any risk of injury, do not rotate the crankshaft while feeling for the TDC hole with your finger. — Screw locking pin 3242 into bore (20 Nm); if necessary, turn crankshaft (1) backwards and forwards slightly to fully centralise locking pin. — 20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
14. Lock balance shaft at front of engine with diesel injection pump locking pin 3359
15. Unscrew bolt and detach balance weight from balance shaft.
16. Lock balance shaft at rear of engine with diesel injection pump locking pin 3359
17. Unscrew bolts (arrows) and detach chain sprocket from balance shaft.
18. Unscrew bolt (arrow) and detach balance weight from balance shaft.
19. Unscrew bolts (arrows) and detach bearing plate for balance shaft.
20. Pull balance shaft out of cylinder block.
21. Install chain for oil pump and balance shaft
22. Install timing chain covers (see the separate procedure).
23. Install drive plate (see the separate procedure).
24. Install sealing flange (front) (see the separate procedure).
25. Bolt gearbox to engine and install engine/gearbox assembly (see the separate procedure).
26. Fill up with engine oil and check oil level (see the separate procedure).

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