Going to be doing my timing belt again soon. Some places I've looked for info recommend changing the tensioner when you do the belt, while others don't mention it at all. Do you think it's necessary to put a new tensioner on with the new belt and all?

 

From what I always understood, it depends on the mileage-as all bearing eventually wear out(including the bearings in the tensioner). Having, only, a 96 I wouldn't think you'd have a s***load of miles on it to justify it, also with only a intake. Though, if I'm wrong, please educate.

 

I just did my timing belt as well and I went ahead and replaced the tensioner. No sense on waiting for it to go bad and start making noise. Are you going to replace your water pump as well?

 

Well, I've got 105,000 on the car right now, including about 75 (sloooowww) track passes in the last 50k, so it's probably a good idea to replace it when I do the belt.

Yes, I'll be replacing the water pump also.

 

question...will the tensioner scream like hell if its on its way out...

i.e. my car makes this loud *** whistling / screaming sound upon start up when its cold and goes away after about 20 seconds yet when i drive and stay at low rpm i can hear it whistle still but not as loud...i know this sound has to be a bearing though...tensioner,a/c pulley bearing,power steering pulley bearing or alternator pulley bearing...anyway to narrow it down to one...?


[Modified by teg-your-it, 3:52 PM 1/28/2003]

 

remove each belt one-by-one.

 

How much did you guys spend for the timing belt & labor? I'm thinking to change everything including my water pump, fan belt (looks worn)...

 

$350-400 parts and labor. This includes the w-pump, belt, etc.... minus tensioner.