vectras and cambelts

[axel_knutt]

Anyone know whether Vectras have enough clearance for the valves, or do they wreck the engine when the cambelt goes? I gather from the Top Gear website that Vectras are notorious for throwing cambelts, but they don't make it clear whether the engine survives or not.

[spannerman]

if the belt/tensioner/idler wheels break they bend valves and crack valve guides as well, very expensive, when replacing timing belt always renew the plastic belt tensioner+idler wheels as these items are normally the cause of belt failiure...

[matt_t16]

Replacing the waterpump as well is well worth doing. If the bearings break down (which they do) the play in the drive quite often cause the belt to come loose.

Matt

[axel_knutt]

Thanks, I gather the bill is anything up to £3000 for a new engine. Went to look at a Vectra advertised with full vauxhall service history on sat. He said he didn't know whether the cambelt had been done, but when I got there, the invoice for the 40k service said:

CUSTOMER DECLINED CAMBELT CHANGE!!

Oh for the days when I could just put another cambelt on my Capri and drive away after it broke!

>> Edited by axel_knutt on Monday 13th September 16:43