Should I replace timing belt?

TonyB · Post by **TonyB** » Sun Nov 22, 2009 8:16 pm

I'm rehabing my 81 dasher, recently aquired. The timing belt appears to be in good shape, but I'm aware you can't judge condition by just looking. The printing on the back of the belt is still partially visible which leads me to believe that it may be fairly new. Is that a valid conclusion? I plan to replace it & water pump as part of the rehab, but would like to delay for a month or two. Is that a reasonable approach?

TonyB
Jacksonville, FL
81 Dasher 1.6na

Quantum-man · Post by **Quantum-man** » Sun Nov 22, 2009 9:31 pm

Inspect for any wear on the teeth and any surface cracking. If fine, then I'd risk it

82vdub · Post by **82vdub** » Sun Nov 22, 2009 10:06 pm

I agree with quantum man.

FineFrank · Post by **FineFrank** » Mon Nov 23, 2009 10:18 am

The printing on the back of the belt is still partially visible which leads me to believe that it may be fairly new.

X3. I doubt you'll have any trouble.

TonyB · Post by **TonyB** » Mon Nov 23, 2009 12:46 pm

Thank you Q-man, 82vdub and FineFrank for your reply. I'll go for it.

TonyB
Jacksonville, FL
81 Dasher 1.6na

Op-Ivy · Post by **Op-Ivy** » Mon Nov 23, 2009 4:59 pm

Really check for slight cracking on the belt under some good light. If there is none then you can wait a couple months.

But overall as a rule of thumb: If you don't know how new a timing belt is, just replace it.

I wasn't sure if the timing belt had been done on my girlfriend's 1.8t so I changed it. And let me tell you, it's a lot more difficult than doing it on our little diesels!

hagar · Post by **hagar** » Mon Nov 23, 2009 7:55 pm

TonyB : yes that is a reasonable approach

hagar.

CoolAirVw · Post by **CoolAirVw** » Sun Nov 29, 2009 8:38 pm

Just dont let the two months turn into 4, then 6 then 1.5 years......

Former VWDieselParts.com Forum

Should I replace timing belt?

Should I replace timing belt?

Timing belt.