In a message dated 8/12/98 7:04:43 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
ray.wei@US.PWCGLOBAL.COM writes:

<< Hi, everyone Have you ever used ContiTech belts, made by Continental,
Germany?<<SNIP>>Even though Conti makes all timing belts for VW, but the
experience I had using ContiTech belts on my Jetta was not a good one.  I had
broken A/C belt and alternator belt within 2 years each time after I put the
new set in.  Seems to me the original VW/Gates belts were last a lot longer.
I wonder the width (9.5 mm on original vs. 10 mm on Conti's) has anything to
do with it? Ron, which belts do you carry at Bus Depot?  Any recommendations?
>>

I swear by Continentals from the dealer. Tried the belts made by melicans
(Americans). No good. Retension every other month. ugh. Gates schmates.

You say you had to replace your Conti's after two years... How long do you
WANT you belts to last??? I replace 'em every two years anyway. You are
talking $30 every two years, vs. a LONG wait for AAA. You make the call.

Don't be a cheapskate, go with the Conti's.

gmbulley
cary, nc