Changed my mind about 12V timing belt tension
Thread Starter
AudiWorld Super User
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 2,284
Likes: 100
From: Fallbrook, CA
Changed my mind about 12V timing belt tension
I recently wrote that I prefered to err on the side of looseness when tensioning the 2.8 12V's timing belt. I found that this isn't a good idea, because once the new belt's teeth smoothed out and settled into the sprockets, the belt slacked up. The 12V doesn't have an active tensioner, so it doesn't compensate for wear or stretch. My engine had a chatter at idle and low rpms when cold, which became quieter when hot. I thought this could a defective water pump, but then I noticed how much the belt was flopping, and the polish marks inside the belt covers where the belt was touching. Instead of 90 degree twist, the belt could be turned about 120 degrees! I reset it last night, and the motor is now quiet like it should be.
AudiWorld Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 462
Likes: 3
From: sunny , snowy central New York State
I think on the down side of tighting the timing belt is if to tight wears out water pumps to soon. Happened twice to me now, unless these water pumps are defective. I had one go at 50K miles and the last one go at 26K miles. bearing the first time and the last time it was the seal.. Maybe this stuff is junk now, but still both made in Germany...
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Skyline411
Audi 90 / 80 / Coupe quattro / Cabriolet
9
Sep 4, 2005 04:12 PM
AudiMick
12v V6 Discussion
6
Sep 5, 2004 05:38 PM
98a6quattro
A6 / S6 (C5 Platform) Discussion
7
Nov 22, 2003 09:42 AM
