General Is there an easy way to tell if a cambelt has been changed?

[rockhampton]

Hi all,

I've just got myself a lovely Marea weekend 155 HLX in metallic red and I love it. It has got 85000 on the clock, and goes like a dream - I bought it after having a go of my girlfriend's 115 ELX which she loves. I got the car at a decent price, however there is little paperwork after 60000 miles - so of course, my main concern is the timing belt. I know someone who has some experience of Fiats, and he states that the cambelt is not the original one - he pulled back the cover and the makers stamp on the belt is different to the Fiat original - I can't remember the make offhand, but I'm sure it begins with a G - I'll check it again next time the belt stops at a suitable position. The belt appears in decent condition - there are no cracks in it or anything, however I don't want to risk it.
I guess it's pretty unlikely that any 20v engine would get to 85k with the original belt, but I really need to know if I should change it urgently or I could potentially wait until 100k - I'm currently in the process of writing to the two previous owners to see if they could shed any light - in the meantime, can anyone give me some pointers? (fortunately, my girlfriend just had hers done at 43k so she's sorted!)

Cheers,

 

[dave]

gates? they are a good belt,
but rule of thumb is, if you havent got a bill for recent belt and tensioners, then fit new anyway, its a lot cheaper than if it brakes

 

[rockhampton]

Yes, that was it - Gates. You're right though about not taking the risk - I'll see what i can find out from the previous owners, and if it's not conclusive, I'll take it to that place in Birmingham and get it done.

Cheers,

 

[dave]

what place motormech?

 

[rockhampton]

Yep - they seem to have good reviews in the forums

 

[dave]

yeah they are cool

 

[jug]

why dont you loosen off the timing belt cover and inspect the belt. it will be obvious if it needs changing. any cracking or a shiny surface with lines scored onto the outer side means it needs changing as a matter of urgency. if the belt inbetween the teeth appears to be thinning then it means it has done a good few thousand miles and hasnt been changed recently, although that does not mean it needs changing.

a agree gates are good, in fact i'd say they're the best. i only use gates belts.

 

[rockhampton]

Thanks for that - I did have a look at it the other day - there is no cracking or scoring - it is a little shiny, but does not look excessively so - the 'gates' markings are perfectly clear too. The belt outer is nice and smooth at the several places I looked at. I've sent off letters to the previous 2 owners now, so I'm just awaiting their responses, fingers crossed.... I'll pop the cover off at the weekend and have a nose at the teeth as you suggest.
thanks for your help,

Glenn