Audi B4 Steering Rack: Differences & Replacement

Hello there,

I own an Audi 80 B4 Avant TDI, manufactured in 1995, with approximately 190,000 km on the odometer. For some time now, my suspension has been making annoying clunking noises. After replacing various rubber bushings and buffers, I tried to pinpoint the source of the problem. In the process, I noticed that the noises most likely originate from a defect in the steering gear, which has also been confirmed by a VAG workshop. However, since a genuine steering gear costs almost 700€ without installation, I purchased a used one. Now, here's my problem: the used part comes from a B4 2.0 gasoline engine from 1992. The part number of this steering gear is...
8A1 422 065 A, the part number of my steering rack is 8A1 422 065 K. According to the Audi spare parts list, the steering racks are not identical, but they appear to have the same mechanical construction when viewed externally. Does anyone know if I can still use this steering rack? Perhaps someone has encountered the same problem before.
Okay, here's the translation:

"Has anyone ever replaced the steering rack in a B4? What parts should I remove to make the replacement process as easy as possible?"

Thank you in advance for your efforts.

For 700 euros, you can get a replacement steering rack, as you already mentioned.

If you order a new steering rack without a return (i.e., without returning the old part), you will receive a steering rack with the part number 8G1 422 065. It costs just over 1000 euros. While it may seem uninteresting at first glance, there is no difference with new parts whether you have a 4-cylinder gasoline engine or a diesel. The new part fits every model.

So, since you say that the A-type transmission is externally identical to the K-type transmission, then it will also fit into your vehicle. And it will also work.
My opinion.

"This might not be very helpful to you right now, but in the Golf III, the steering racks are also interchangeable between different engine types (diesel/gasoline) (I've done it myself). Why should there be any differences in that case?"

/Jan