Hi, I'm preparing to replace my Punto's Timing Belt.

Haynes Manual says tension is about right when it can just be turned on longest stretch with finger & thumb 90 degrees. But Haynes also warns the tension should subsequently be checked by Fiat! If I'm going to get them to take off engine mounting and auxiliary belt just to get the Timing Belt covers off for them to be able to check the Timing Belt's tension... bit pointless me doing the job in the first place - may as well pay them to do the whole thing. :bang:

Or... am I being overconcerned about Haynes' warning. Do I really need to get Fiat to do their tension check with their special tool on my Punto's 8v FIRE engine? Or is the rough rule 90 degrees with finger and thumb good enough for it?

A similair query applies to the auxiliary belt...

btw I typed "Punto Timing Belt Tension Tool" into a search engine and see there's plenty outlets selling the Sealey kit, but it's for 16v engines.

Haynes are quite right regarding the tensionining of the belt, but this should be done with a hot engine, the belt tightens significantly as the engine warms up so I always run the engine up and recheck it. A loose belt can skip teeth and cause engine running problems or failure to start but a tight belt causes bearing damage and significantly shortens the life of the belt.

NumanR

Does the belt not get stretch with use ????? I have to say ive changed several belts on several types of cars over the years and ive always checked the tension by twisting it 90 degrees and have never had any problems. Obviously getting it tensioned correctly is the best way to go i just never have.

Thanks guys. Think I'll not bother with getting Fiat check it, unless someone here gives dire warnings...

teulk, you're located near me. Can you recommend any MoT garages that have Fiat test equipment (non-dealers)? Ta.

Sorry but i just use a local MOT centre which is literally on my door step. I dont use Fiat garages of any sort mate , if i need any work done i try and do it myself or again use a local garage which is about 300mtrs away.

Okay, cheers. I'll choose one of my locals. I used to take my Citroen ZX to a small garage behind Chillingham Road (across town from me), but they hate Fiats...