Aldi A4 1997 auto

[RegandPat]

Hi all, I have just brought a Aldi A4 automatic 1800cc estate car, year 1997, I will be towing a 1300kg van.
I know this is a drop from my 4x4 but it cost to much to keep in diesel.
Please tell me all the good points on this old tow car.
Reg and Pat

 

[Bill.D]

Blimey, Aldi making cars now!!
I have an Audi A4 Avant if that helps although it is a later one and a 2 litre diesel so performance will be different. As far as handling is concerned it tows well ( a Swift of about 1300kg)
Bill D.

 

[OmOnWeelz]

Well it should be a Lidl cheaper on fuel for sure

 

[RogerB]

Hi Reg and Pat I think that you'll find that the rear suspension is a bit soft on the car and the caravan will put the back end down quite a lot .Years ago I had the problem on an A4 saloon.I fitted spring assistors - basically a rubber spacer that fits between two coils of each spring.Its not a perfect solution but cost effective and really helps. The build quality of the car is typical Audi and as long as it has service history it should give good service.

 

[ProfJohnL]

Hello Roger,
I am sure you have seem my other posts on the subject of spring assistors.

In brief and for the benefit of Reg and Pat, if a cars suspension is to low with a trailer attached, then spring assistors are the LAST thing you should consider.

If a cars suspension is too low, there is a reason for it.
The first thing to check is the loading on the car,Is it overloaded? Both the trailers nose load and the load in the car should be checked.
Second thing is to get the cars suspension checked for wear or damage, Are the tyres inflated correctly?
Spring assistors are technically never necessary, they do not increase the loading capacity of the car.

 

[RegandPat]

If the weather is fine this weekend I may hook up and go for a drive, just to see how the outfit handles.
I am a bit concerned about the detachable tow ball (swan neck) as I just hope it dose not come detached on route, it is a Brinks with a side clip that seems to move a rod.
I think what I will do is hook up and go backwards and forwards several times first.
I have checked all the lights and they all work.
Reg

 

[RogerB]

Hi Prof John
Whereas I can't argue with the science of your arguement,I used these on an Audi A4 years ago and they increased the rear ride height by about 25mm.I was not looking for increased load capacity but merely wanted to level out the car with the van attatched.The car was not that old but the rear dipped significantly with the noseweight at the recommended figure and the kids in the back.I can't say that there was any difference in towing but the coupled outfit looked better.