OHC cam belt.

[hbr341]

Hi All
How often do you change the belt on your OHC i have changed mine 2x in 8 years as it only does about 2k miles a year the other thing is the belt tensioner mine has been there for years are they still avalable as i would like to fit a good quality new one next time i change the belt anyone know please.

Regards Chris,

[droopsnoot]

I do about the same, around four years between changes. On the kind of mileages a lot of us do, it's more down to the material degrading rather than wear, hence a lot of modern cars also give mileage and age ranges for changing the belt.

I've never changed the tensioner pulley. There were some available in Germany at one point, but I believe they were plastic pulleys which I didn't think would add to longevity.

[1972nail]

The original metal pulleys are not available anymore. The plastic ones are still available from a supplier in Germany but the quality is dubious.

The bearing in the metal pulley is a standard and easily available bearing I believe and can be bought from a bearing specialist if you know the part number. They have to be pressed in and out.

Magard Sport have the bearings in stock I believe.

Belts are not expensive at less than a tenner from a local motor factors for a Gates one. If they break the engine is a non-interference design so you will be stranded rather than seriously damaged.

[droopsnoot]

If they break the engine is a non-interference design so you will be stranded rather than seriously damaged.

Yes, that's pretty much why I don't stress over swapping it too often - I've got one in the boot, and a ruler to get the marks in the right place if I need it.

[hbr341]

Hi All
Thanks for your help i will check the condition of the tensioner when i change the belt and get a new bearing if its worn Thanks.

Regards Chris,

[1972nail]

It's very unlikely that the tensioner bearing will be worn unless the belt has been very over tightened.

[hbr341]

Hi All
Had check to see when i did last change the belt and it was 2011 at 52000 miles now iam at 62000 so i think i will get a new one as 7years and 10k miles time flys by,

Regards Chris.

[1972nail]

Best price....

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/VAUXHALL-FIR ... SwnTdaC5jy

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/GATES-Powerg ... 4E2iz-ocIw

[hbr341]

Hi David
Thanks for the link i have ordered a gates one.

Regards Chris,