If there is a mechanical weak link in Benz engines, it the timing chains.
Frequent problems and expensive. The belt is chaep and easy. While the belt
may be good for 100K, I would suggest occasional checks of the condition and
tension. Rarely will a cam belt actually break. They come loose and skip or
rip off a few teeth. Siezed tensioner will also burn them up. Pay attention
to strange noises on interference engines.

Dennis

>From: Zeitgeist <gruengeist@GMAIL.COM>
>Reply-To: Zeitgeist <gruengeist@GMAIL.COM>
>To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
>Subject: Re: diesel Vanagon vs. MB, Volvo, other diesel VW
>Date: Fri, 7 Dec 2007 09:57:31 -0800
>
>I agree, and am quite familiar with VW diesels, but there's one thing that
>still just bugs the hell outta me...timing belts.  That makes the MBs look
>much more attractive, IMNSHO
>
>On Dec 7, 2007 9:42 AM, Karl Mullendore <groups@westyventures.com> wrote:
>
> > Much smaller package using the VW TDI fours and fives, fits nicely, and
> > can easily make all the torque you'll ever need. If you need more for
> > whatever reason, well...the V6 TDI could be fitted more easily than the
> > Mercedes, perhaps.
> >
> >