OK, thanks to Struculeus' offer to send out the factory instrucions on Timing Belt replacement (see Timing Belt thread below), a lot of us have been recieveing and forwarding the document. But now it's time to move on to doing the work. There may be other threads on this but I'd appreciate hearing anyone's thoughts or experience with aftermarket belts, pulleys and water pumps, vs. factory parts. Any suggestions on which brands of aftermarket to use or avoid would be great.

Thanks

Ron

 

this is the scene here on aftermarket vs OEM parts.
if OEM parts cost too much,one can opt for aftermarket parts.
aftermarket parts is divided into 2 categories,one form Japan the other one from Taiwan and china.
most of the time,parts from Taiwan should be avoided.there is a reason why the part are so mush cheaper than OEM and other Japan brand.
for non critical parts,taiwan and china brand is ok.

 

I have heard many bad things abt aftermarket belts. When it come down to something as important as a timing belt oem is the bast way to go.

 

Thanks guys - I've decided to go OEM based on this and other advice I've gotten.

One more quick question. What's the best way to lock the crank from rotating when removing the pulley bolt? I'm sure few people have the tool picutred in the manual.

I've done belts on other cars and have been able to block the flywheel via the starter port. Any other ideas?

Ron

 

If you have a 1/2 air impact gun it really shouldn't move a lot, that would probabaly work the best.

 

Thanks!