Cambelt change method.

[Steve Webb]

I stumbled across this hint for how to change a cambelt on another forum. And to be honest, not sure how I feel about it.

The method involves cutting the original in half, so it is half its original width while it is in place on the car. Removing the outer half, slipping the new belt on, then cutting the remaining half of the old belt off.

On the plus side you'll make sure that the new belt is on with the cams set correctly, but on the minus side you are going to have to mess around no end to get the original belt cut in the first place, then introduce a sharp blade to the vicinity of the new belt one it is all in place.

So is this over complicating the issue of a belt change, or a foolproof method.

[santino]

I have never seen something like this!:lipsrsealed:

[juamin]

never heard about this :S

[AlfaJack]

Bit pointless when most would change the tensioner and any pulleys too.

[SteveNZ]

I do not see a lot of merit in this method. It actually sounds rather difficult and time consuming. Plus, you have to turn the engine over with a cut down belt to cut the whole length. Dotting the belt with your own marks is a much better shortcut if you dont want to align the sprockets by the factory marks.

[Steve Webb]

Well the post that originally read was just about a generic cambelt change, but like you say its going to get in the way of changing the tensioners etc.
Also its going to be pretty tight in there trying to work around the balancer shaft belt.

Seems to me to be a overly complicated way of doing things for people with no confidence in what they are doing.

[jimnielsen]

ah.. I see now, I thought that the article was about a Q4 belts change specifically, because on a standard Q4 with the balance shaft belts on etc with method would be a pain. It is an interesting idea however...

Having changed the belts on the Q4 many times, I find it very easy now, but you need your reference points on the crankshaft and the camshafts clearly set out before you begin. Also its easy to get a tooth out at first, but easy to fix this..

[wrinx]

I have heard of this before...the brave version is to introduce a knife to the belt when the engine is running :lol: :shock:

As Jack posted...waste of time as you'd be daft to change a Q4/Coupe/Integrale belt without doing the rollers and tensioner.

Besides, this is the easiest way to change a belt...
YouTube - The Original Fast Volkswagen Belt Change.

wrinx

[AlfaJack]

:thumbsup: Very good :D

[SteveNZ]

yes very good!