hi, I am getting ready to have my camshafts installed. The one doing the install suggested that i should also replace the timing belt even though i only have about 17,xxx miles on it.He has got this mentality to "do it right". you guys think i should replace it? and if so, do i also need to replace the balance shaft belt? lastly, what brand do you suggest? thanks!

 

Timing belt is definately not necessary at that mileage.

 

A BIG NO NO NO my friend. I just got mine done at 41K miles. After I finish it "myself" with the help of my younger bro . You'll need at least two person to do this. Especially when it comes to breaking the cam gears nut. Anyways, my mechanic told me that the stock belt should be good for at least 100K miles. 108K to be exact. Even if you screw up, still keep the belt and save some money.

 

 

I suppose normal driving should be around 108K but if you see the track a lot of time, maybe 80K would be ideal. But the guy is a trusted and experienced mechanic so gotta listen to him. After install my camshafts, I thought I might have missed at least one or two tooth on the belt so I decide to have him check to be sure. I mean, it's better to be safe then to "f" it up and spend more money down the road you know. He told me the timing was good and I didn't miss any tooth. Great relief to hear since it's the first time I did that kind of a job myself. I recommend reading the write up at Evomoto and the one in Evolutionm How-to a couple of times before anyone start tackling this job.

 

thanks for the help guys!! oh, i forgot to add that i'll also be changing springs and retainers.

 

What kind of camshaft are you putting on??

 

When I spoke to my mechanic he told me alot of horror stories of 4G63 belts snapping after 60k and destroying the engine.

 

60,000

 

you trusted mechanic didn't design a 4g63...

mitsubishi as stated above me advises the timing belt to be changed at 60k miles

please don't post non factual information

 

My bad. chaotichoax you're right. Eventhough someone is a trusted mechanic, most time it's just best to go by the manufacture's advice. Guess I have about 18K life left on my belt. But still, I would suggest not to replace belt at only 17K miles. My thought's only

 

hks 280's

 

being hmong makes timing belts last longer, so you're good until 90k.

 

At the mileage you have I also have to agree that a new timing belt isn't necessary. As far as those guys suggesting those high mileage timing belt changes, I wouldn't take a chance. Change it at least at what Mitsu recommends at 60,000 miles. I've had both my Mitsubishi Mirage DOHC Turbo and my Talon Tsi timing belts fail before the 60,000 mile mark. I will be replacing my timing belt well before the 50,000 mile mark, it's cheap insurance compared to have to replace bent valves and maybe some cracked pistons.

 

U might as well put in a better timinbelt on, They're going to remove the old one anyways.