Timing belt does this really need to be changed?

[jacksons98]

Hi! Just a quick question because I've been doing all the maintenance on my eclipse I bought. The last item to do is the timing belt and I pop the cover off and it looks brand spanking new. The guy helping me is like "dude your wasting your time" The belt even has the grooves still on the inside of the belt. I know everyone says if you don't know to change it, but take a look and let me know what you guys think.

Thanks again!

 

[gusu]

Tough call, it does look in good condition but you don't know how many miles are actually on it. Personally I'd change it, but you might be able to get away with out any issues.

The only thing about not doing it is the fact that you really don't know when you need to change it.

 

[pauleyman]

Are you really concerned about 100$? You've already torn it down this far. You also won't know when to change it. That could be a zero mile belt or a 20k belt. It does appear to be newer.

 

[jacksons98]

You guys are right, I'm already this far. Might as well just change it. My helper was making me second guess myself
... back to work
I like the idea of actually knowing when I need to change it again too. That an excellent point and makes it worth it

 

[pauleyman]

I lost count of how many I've changed over the years. A 60k old belt really doesn't look all that much different from a new belt. I'm assuming you have no concerns about how to change the belt. Get after it.

 

[jacksons98]

Pauley, Just following the vfaq guide, so far so good

 

[pauleyman]

I have numerous posts on my opinions. I did my first tbelt more than 20 years ago with no vfaq. Get the marks and tension right and you're golden. How you get there or how long it takes is of no consequence.

 

[92AWDHX40]

Looks good i would inspect it for cracks though.

 

[Colt4G63 also]

I agree with the previous posts, just change it so you know. When they start to show signs of wear, it's already way past due.

 

[ampsyco]

when you get it off fold the belt so the teeth are facing you. look at the edges where the teeth meet the belt. they get cracked and dry rotted in there. you wont see that with the belt on.

 

[JusMX141]

It's literally tougher removing the timing cover than it is to change the belt.

Buy this and you'll have no worries.

 

[DSM1G90]

Least the sprocket is at TDC..

Trick is: to look at the base of each teeth and I see fabric wear that could begin to deteroiate that can cause issues down the road.


That Contitech kit is CHEAP! .. and an excellent belt as well !

Just do the change to rest the mind.