Timing Belt Rip-off?

Not sure if this is a good idea if the guy isn't sure whether the belt was
changed at 78,000 miles.

Maybe luck was on your side - a snapped belt can cause a hell of a lot of
damage even whilst the MOT guy revs for the smoke test.
flick a coin *will it* *won't it*

Bill

 

This is where recommendation of a local independent is priceless.

 

Why not, If they refuse to, then chances are that they never changed it, but
just want the extra cash out of you.
This is not the same as asking to see the worn belt BEFORE they fit the new
one.

 

There is no problem with this. I have been asked a few times by the
customer to see the old belt, though they're usually more impressed
with the old auxilliary belt which is normally cracked to buggery!

 

I asked for all my bits back when my belt was fitted - the belt and all
pulleys which I had provide new ones

Bill

 

oops sorry thought it was said show the old belt before fitting new - read
question wrong

Bill

 

with regards the smoke test i alter the throttle cable to limit the revs to
3800rpm so it doesn't sit on the rev limiter. takes 10 seconds to do. in the
engine bay, just lift the circlip, push the cable to the left and replace
the clip. never failed the MOT because of it.

 

What about the testers that don't sit in the car to rev the engine,
but use the lever direct on the pump? Thus bypassing your "mod" and
enabling full revs.

 

hey i never said it was perfect Nigel! Blimey. Just a bit a friendly help
that costs nothing and could save you a snapped belt. At my local garage
they work in pairs and use the pedal. Infact the other garage did too.

 

Good point

Bill

 

I remember when there was the time belts were being broken each week, that's
why most garages decided not 'to' do the smoke test at the beginning
Now they ask if you know when the last belt was fitted to cover themselves.

Bill

 

Can cambelts not really cope with high revs on a Diesel car ?

Does the same apply to Petrol cars ?

If I were to continually drive around on the redline (I don't, before you
ask , would my cambelt snap prematurely ?

 

Yes up to a point. That point being the recommended mileage for
renewal!

Not on an MOT as it is only revved to around 3K. But they still have
recommended renewal times.

Sod's Law says "Probably"

 

like i said, not perfect but 'could' save you a snapped belt. costs nothing.
easy to do. each to their own. bet you wish you had if it snaps at the MOT
though and he was sat in the car.