On 01/01/2022 at 16:57, PetrolDave said:

Exactly my logic for replacing the cambelt on my previous EA211 1.4TSI after 5 years.

Had my cambelt and water pump replaced after 5 years and 56k in September. Requested to see the original belt and have to say it looked in extremely good condition. Do I regret having the belt replaced? No, for the peace of mind and hoping to keep the car long term, having owned for nearly 5 years. 

12 hours ago, KenONeill said:

You've really never seen rubber get heat hardened and cracked, or oil contaminated?

Many, many times - seems my PC 'auto-corrected' can to cannot as I intended to type this

Quote

Personally as an engineer I cannot believe that what is basically a rubber belt in an environment subject to vast temperature changes (under the bonnet attached to a lump of metal) CAN survive for the same length of time as the metal parts

 

4 hours ago, PetrolDave said:

Many, many times - seems my PC 'auto-corrected' can to cannot as I intended to type this

 

My faith in you is restored😁

19 hours ago, KenONeill said:

You've really never seen rubber get heat hardened?

 

I have yes but most people won't unless they are Doctor Spock.

Bring back Chains, no reason to have cam belts other than keeping the service sector happy.

What a pity that even by Euro 5 engine VW group had not got chains or tensioners shorted after decades of failures. Same with other engine components, software, gearboxes etc.   But then ever since VW went from aircooled and cars with metal roofs rubber has not been their best understood or developed material.  They have yet to get the hang of seals, belts, tyres etc.   Sourcing quality parts is the issue as they do not manufacture stuff they just buy as cheap as they can get stuff. Anytime there is an issue with VW they blame other manufacturers. They just design and put together parts from anywhere made by whoever.  Even if VW own the manufacturer they still blame others. 

 

Edited 4 January, 20224 yr by roottoot