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Post by vojtazbrna on Mar 30, 2005 22:20:14 GMT -6
This might be a stupid question, but how can you tell if the timing belt is worn and needs to be replaced? They say to replace it every 60k. I have 75k and I'm not sure if it was replaced after 60k. Also the dex-cool...do you really believe that it should be changed after150k? Isn't that too long?
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Post by erw38 on Mar 30, 2005 22:47:54 GMT -6
The timing belt on these cars is a chain and never has to be replaced. The serpentine belt however does need to be replaced at every 100 thousand miles. It may need to replace more often though (depending on environmental and other factors). You can inspect the belt by looking at it and moreso the grooved side of the belt. If there is any cracking in the belt then its time for a change. If the belt feels unusually hard then its time for a change. You should plan on changing it at ~100k to insure that it doesn't snap and break while driving, stranding you and possibly causing some other damage. Why do I feel like I reciting Jeff Foxworthy's "You migh be a redneck if..." routine here. As for the dexcool, it will last 150k under ideal conditions. As I'm sure you know, we don't live in an ideal world. Therefore, I would recommend changing it moreoften. I would think changing it once every year or two would be great. You can probably go longer between changes, but it's so easy to change so why take a chance?
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Post by Letitroll98 on Mar 31, 2005 10:21:35 GMT -6
My GM link tells me change the Dex Cool at 150k miles or 5 years. Most of us will bang up on the time ceiling before the mileage limit.
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Post by BuccaneersFan on Mar 31, 2005 19:24:56 GMT -6
In addition to what erw38 said, If the serpentine belt looks shiny then its time to change it. Also if you push on it and it pushes more then an inch, change it.
I just changed mine last Friday and the belt only cost me 17.99. Putting it on is a pain in the butt, but it is possible. To have a mechanic put it on will cost you about $50 or more.
If you have any questions about putting on the belt yourself let me know.
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Post by vojtazbrna on Mar 31, 2005 22:23:45 GMT -6
Thanks guys. I'll check it tomorrow, but if it needs to be replaced I'll go with the mechanic.
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Post by BuccaneersFan on Apr 1, 2005 14:25:32 GMT -6
Yeah the mechanic is much easier.
I would only suggest doing it yourself if you have some confidence in your mechanic ability, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, and someone to help you. Its easy to get the old one off but putting a new one on is pretty hard.
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Post by oldsauroraman1 on Jun 7, 2005 20:44:45 GMT -6
Just because the belt is loose does not mean it is the problem. There is a Belt Tensioner that takes care of the slackness. If a belt "Stretches" it breaks.
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Post by stevensolds on Jun 7, 2005 20:48:10 GMT -6
mine was replaced when the car had 54k on ti.
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Post by oldsauroraman1 on Jun 7, 2005 20:50:12 GMT -6
That sounds right Steven. 50K is common. Sometimes 75K but thats not the norm.
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Post by stevensolds on Jun 7, 2005 21:21:55 GMT -6
i wont be replacing mine again
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