I don't have much to report just yet, except that my auto is slipping. Its drivable, but annoying.
While doing all of my cost/benefit analysis of going back to an auto or doing the manual, it was clear it would never be close in price. It was a big nut to swallow, estimating at least 10k including labor and parts, without unforeseeable problems. I searched for a donor car, salvaged or otherwise, and came across the cheapest 6 speed A6 in the country which was only about 20 miles from me. Picked her up for 3200. I think it was fate..
After a test drive and a trip to Raven to confirm its condition, it was decided it was the perfect car to cannibalize. Remarkably good shape for the mileage, except the paint was pretty faded and dinged. As far as the parts I needed were concerned, it was perfect. More expensive initially, but a LOT easier than chasing down individual parts. And she shifted beautifully. There is maybe 2k in salvageable parts (engine, interior, brakes, chassis) so in the end it won't cost me so much, but I do have to pay Raven to dismantle it.
I bought it Friday and drove it the same day 600 miles round trip on a shooting adventure in Nevada.. without regard for the exterior, off-roading on a dry river bed was awesome! Kept up with the trucks, as long as I had clearance. More parts for Raven to clean. I will say, its been a relative joy to drive the A6 manual.. very confortable daily driver. For the price, its outstanding.. I would consider picking up another like this in the future just to take some miles off the RS. Rides like a boat however..
Anyhow, here is the happy couple, ready to be joined in holy Frankenstein matrimony. Just waiting for Raven to finalize their new clutch package for it, and their new adapter plate which is being engineered now. I will post the progress as it comes, probably a few weeks out from anything else.