Coil pack connector clip broke, how to remove?

[naiku]

Ok, so this car is really starting to irritate me, I have managed to get 3 of the 4 clips off from the coil packs. But the 4th snapped, no matter what I try now I can't get it to unlatch. The first 3 are loosened enough that I can move the rail back a little, but without unclipping the first one I am stuck. The piece that broke off is the top of the part where you can slot a screwdriver, so I can't use any leverage to pop it out.

Any tips on unclipping the broken one? do I need a replacement clip once I get the bastard off? The whole connector is starting to look chewed up from me attempting to remove the thing, and I don't want to wreck any more of it.

Edit: Posting threads here must be the bit of luck I need, right after I posted, tried again, and off it popped. But, do I need a replacement clip? if so where can they be purchased? or should I not worry about it since its on there good and tight.

[illegitimus]

This had happened to me on a couple of the coil pack wire connectors. I ended up buying new connector housings. The problem was dismantling the old, broken one and pulling wires out it and feeding them into the new housing. I'd guess Audi tech have some sort of a tool to perform the job. I think, the part number for the wire housings is 4B0-973-724 and it was a bit pricey for what it is, $23.40/each at the dealer.

[jc_333]

If the housing is already chewed up you can break off the top clip part and with a screw driver lift the latch.

The connectors on mine were pretty crispy and even though I have changed sparks before I broke two! How long or difficult is it to replace these connectors? Do you have any pictures how the wires come out and any pointers for me?

Thanks

J

This had happened to me on a couple of the coil pack wire connectors. I ended up buying new connector housings. The problem was dismantling the old, broken one and pulling wires out it and feeding them into the new housing. I'd guess Audi tech have some sort of a tool to perform the job. I think, the part number for the wire housings is 4B0-973-724 and it was a bit pricey for what it is, $23.40/each at the dealer.

[illegitimus]

If the housing is already chewed up you can break off the top clip part and with a screw driver lift the latch.

The connectors on mine were pretty crispy and even though I have changed sparks before I broke two! How long or difficult is it to replace these connectors? Do you have any pictures how the wires come out and any pointers for me?

Thanks

J

Here're pictures of the replacement connectors that I ended up getting (back, front and side views):







what I had to do was to break the original ones to free the wires. The wires will have rubber tubing/seals around each of them. Then I fed individual wires through the corresponding holes on the back of the connectors (make sure you do not mix the wiring order!) so that rubber seals are well seated inside the connector. Once all wires are in, you need to press the pink clamp from the side firmly in to secure the wires in the connector. I hope, this is what you are asking about...

[jc_333]

Exactly the information I need...thanks!

Those connectors are pretty expensive for what they are at US14 a pop from ECS!

J

[illegitimus]

Exactly the information I need...thanks!

Those connectors are pretty expensive for what they are at US14 a pop from ECS!

J

yep, they definitely are, so you really have to make sure you get the wires in the correct order and nicely tight the first time. I made a mistake and got them from the dealer at $24 a pop! good luck.

[allessence]

has anybody discovered a source other than ECS or AUDI? I mean these weren't designed and produced only for Audi. There must be a manufacturer somewhere.

[Charles.waite]

Reviving this one. I'm looking to replace my connectors as well. GAP sells the connector itself for $12.90 (Part no 4B0973724). ECS sells a similar connector for $19 (Part no 1J0973724). GAP sells the 1J0973724 connector for $12.28.

I took the 4B0 part number off my car so I know thats at least the same part. Is the ECS part any better different? It appears to be from a TT rather than an A4. I can't imagine theres a single bit of difference. Anyone know for certain. I mean 70 cents is 70 cents...

Also anywhere I can get a cheap pin extractor? Or should I bend a paper clip?

[jc_333]

Even though u make a small saving I prefer to go with OE parts for peace of mind and ensure they last just as long as original ones. Cheaper ones might not fit as well or last as long.

If your plugs were as old as mine just crush the housing with pliers and install new connectors.

J

Reviving this one. I'm looking to replace my connectors as well. GAP sells the connector itself for $12.90 (Part no 4B0973724). ECS sells a similar connector for $19 (Part no 1J0973724). GAP sells the 1J0973724 connector for $12.28.

I took the 4B0 part number off my car so I know thats at least the same part. Is the ECS part any better different? It appears to be from a TT rather than an A4. I can't imagine theres a single bit of difference. Anyone know for certain. I mean 70 cents is 70 cents...

Also anywhere I can get a cheap pin extractor? Or should I bend a paper clip?