Cambelt should be done at 7 years/105k. So what else to do at the same time???

[rgvlee]

Having now called another recommended shop I tend to agree

[Catfish]

It's 7 years, or 105,000klms - whichever occurs first.

So, what would you advise for a 6 year old car that has done only 15,000 klms? Leave it to 8 years and hang the consequences? And please don't say get out more!

Cheers

[Umai Naa!!]

So, what would you advise for a 6 year old car that has done only 15,000 klms? Leave it to 8 years and hang the consequences? And please don't say get out more!

Cheers

Just simply stating the facts, not looking for a fight.

Anyway, you could leave it another 12 months but if you'd feel happier doing it sooner, by all means do so.

[Catfish]

Just simply stating the facts, not looking for a fight

No offence intended - I respect your advice on this and other issues.

Cheers

[Diesel_vert]

In Germany, the condition of the belt is checked at 90 000 km, with a check every 30 000 km thereafter. The belt is replaced as necessary or until it reaches 180 000 km(!).


So on balance, a 105 000 km/7 year interval is fine.

If one is really, really concerned, consider changing at 90 000 km/6 years.

[Jmac]

From a technicians point of view lets not forget if you choose not to do the pump you will be putting more strain on an old water pump bearing with a new belt, its a fact so for the sake of 3 bolts , losing coolant and a bit of time cleaning the block why not fit a new pump, you not really saving anything by not fitting a new pump, i see many threads saying the " mechanic said the pump looked ok" yes you can chekc the bearing and check for coolant crust but how do they know the impeller is ok? they simply dont. My opinion is change the thing.
Jmac

[sambb]

is there anything unique about the job that means it should really be done by a VW tech or is belt/tensioner/water pump well within the realms of a non vw mechanic without time blowing out too much.

[h100vw]

is there anything unique about the job that means it should really be done by a VW tech or is belt/tensioner/water pump well within the realms of a non vw mechanic without time blowing out too much.

I would agree with that statement. Don't let them use anything but VW coolant or German aftermarket equivalent. Get yourself the engine manual from erwin and print out the relevant pages.

Gavin

[Umai Naa!!]

The biggest issue is the tooling required.

[h100vw]

The biggest issue is the tooling required.

I have done a few on my Polo the last six months and I would say the least mainstream tool I have used is a torx bit for the bottom end of the belt cover.

A set of allen keys won't undo anything, but I have had allen sockets for years.

Are you thinking of something else?

Gavin