Cam Belt change?

[Helloern]

My Mk5 2.5Tdi had a timing belt fitted at 40,000 in 2002 and has now done 64,000. It was garaged for 1yr as the former owner of this campervan was terminally ill. I have just read that the belt should be changed at 40,000 or 4yrs. I am now worried as it is now 7yrs since the belt was changed. Is it vital that it be changed by time or is it good for another 16,000?

Tiffy1

[Breakdown Biker]

There's only one rule when it comes to timing belts.
If yer no sure, change it
Seriously though I would change it as the rubber can deteriorate, especially if it has stood for long periods. It's cheaper and easier than replacing one that has snapped, and you'll have the peace of mind once it's done

[ake]

Change it, a new belt is cheaper than a broken engine and a ruined holiday:)

[Helloern]

Thanks guys, you've convinced me. Think I might just do it myself. I have the diy manual!

Tiffy1

[Helloern]

Today I got the front end, radiator, a couple of belts off, just got the viscous fan to remove and then the cam belt covers. The manual says there's a plastic plug concealing the TDC locking pin hole just above the starter motor together with a speed sensor to be removed. I couldn't see it, unless it is tucked behind the fuel filter, if so it dosn't look very easy to get to without removing the filter. I'd be grateful if someone could enlighten me.

Tiffy1

[Burgman]

Use the locking pins that you can get to and mark the pulleys you can't, I usually use tippex or paint on all the pulleys anyway and being careful not to move the crank pulley if you move it slightly as least you've got marks to go by.

hope this helps.

[Helloern]

Thanks Burgman,... hadn't thought of that. If I get the pins in the camshaft and pump sprockets I can mark the crankshaft.
When it stops raining I've got to get out there and find something to hold the viscous fan pulley while I take the fan off. Thanks again for replying.

Tiffy1

[Luke]

the pin your looking for is 13mm dia one - the cap might be missing but it is there easy to get to not hidden behind the fuel filter

[Altransit]

the pin your looking for is 13mm dia one - the cap might be missing but it is there easy to get to not hidden behind the fuel filter

...... You will have a speed sensor occupying the hole on a TDi engine, and as Luke says, it's not behind the filter, but much lower down, just above the starter

[Helloern]

Thanks guys for the info and advice, will let you know how I get on.
Tiffy1

[Helloern]

Hi, I have just finished putting everything back and running the engine. Everything is fine and back the way it was, except cleaner and 'tarted' up. I'm very grateful for the info you gave me, but this 76yr old didn't think that 13mil crankpin hole was so easy to get at. My fuel filter has a drain hanging below it and that sensor/speed gadjet was definitely behind it, so I adopted Burgmans suggestion and marked the crank sprocket with a little dab of white touch-up paint. A couple of rotations after fitting and tensioning new belt it was spot on.
Changed all belts and antifreeze for under sixty quid so I'm very pleased at saving all those garage labour charges!
Recently changed a MAF sensor costing £29.99 on my VW Golf, it took less than 5 miutes to fit. VW wanted £160 including half hour labour!
Thanks again.

[Burgman]

Hello ern,

Glad to know you changed the cam belt Ok. and saved a bundle too

Burgman

[Helloern]

Yes, I really appreciated your suggestion Burgman in marking the crank sprocket. Much easier than on my knees groping through the cables and hoses to get to that 13mil pin hole, removing and replacing sensor etc. It might have been easier from a ramp or a pit. I took my time cleaning the engine, even spray lacquered the cam belt cover with an old can I had. Lifting the bonnet everything 'looks new'! Engine runs fine so I'm 'chuffed', thanks again,

Ernie