In a message dated 7/16/01 8:03:02 AM, bmcarthr@SOUTHERN.EDU writes:

<< I have a 1993 Eurovan 5-cylinder standard transmission with 82,000.  My
service manual says that timing belts should be changed at 60,000 miles
for 16-valve engines.  How does this relate to my regular 5-cylinder.  I
don't have a clue as what I should do about my timing belt.  Any
suggestions?

Ben McArthur >>

I believe most EuroVans have a noninterference engine, meaning that if your
timing belt breaks you won't damage your engine.

Since I'm a member of the EV_Update list on egroups, I have to tell you that
there are EuroVan owners on that list that claim their engines were damaged
when the belt broke.

I didn't replace my belt until 120,000 miles, and then only because one of
the pulleys was making noise.  I did the pulleys, belt and water pump all at
the same time.

The old belt still looked good with no cracks.  My guess is that it would
have been good for many more miles.

So VW includes the belt replacement during the 60,000 mile service for the
EV.  It's up to you if you want to replace it, but personally I would wait
until you reach at least 100K and then have everything else done at the same
time (pulleys, water pump, etc.)

Steve Lashley
http://EuroCampers.com
314-614-0750