Hi. Poor alignment, improper tension, and worn sprockets will all result in
increased timing belt fabric wear. After the fabric begins to wear,
cracks will start to appear at the base of the teeth on the belt. Next,
the tooth will separate from the belt. This is the most common type of
belt failure.
The interval will be at 60,000 miles, or every 60,000 miles.
60,000 miles. If the belt breaks it will be expensive to fix as it causes engine damage (bent valves).
SOURCE: how to install timing belt on 1998 vw beetle 2
I assume you don't have a Bentley's factory manual and special tool to tighten the belt. I am strongly recommending you purchase either a disc format or hard copy of the factory manual and not generic Chiltons or Hayes because it is necessary for timing marks line up. If you cant buy one I know you can try your local public library for reference materials.
Use a screwdriver to unscrew the clamp that connects the negative battery cable to the battery post. Remove the cable. Jack up the car using an automotive jack.
Set a large container underneath the radiator at the drain hole to catch the discharged coolant. Open the cap on top of the radiator and unplug the drain plug underneath the radiator.
Remove the components that lead to the water pump using an adjustable wrench. In order, these include the upper and lower engine covers, the accessory drive belt and its tensioner and the upper and center timing belt covers.
Free up the timing belt by turning the engine so that the number one cylinder is at the TDC mark. Loosen the timing belt tensioner enough to ease the belt from the sprocket. Remove the timing belt mounting bolts.
Unbolt the water pump retaining bolts and then the water pump. Remove the o-ring and discard it. Clean the mounting surface.
671 views
Usually answered in minutes!
×