I would appreciate any feedback on Porsche vs. Contitech vs. aftermarket balance shaft/timing belts.

I recently discovered a locked balance shaft idler pulley
<img src="http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploads/DSC00000001.JPG" alt=" - " />
that caused the balance shaft belt to wear on one side. BTW, the updated tensioner is the metal one. I did not realize there was an update...

Anyway, now laying the belts side by side, the more square looking belt is a Porsche belt, contitech belts look very similar. The more rounded looking belt (I don't think I've ever used the aftermarket belt on my car) is the aftermarket one. Would anybody like to share feedback on the aftermarket belt?
<img src="http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploads/DSC00000002.JPG" alt=" - " />

If I recall correctly, the Porsche belt is listed @ $90, contitech around $65, and the aftermarket belt I can get for $20. I wouldn't normally worry about this, but frankly it looks cheap.

Thanks
Ahmet

 

I never had problems with the aftermarket belt and never bought a genuine Porsche one. Some I have seen are not as wide as the other ones for the balance shaft belt and I wouldn't get the thinner ones. As long as its replaced within recommended time/mileage I don't think there will be problems.

 

The balance shafts are not a stressed item like the camshaft, crank and waterpump. I wouldn't be terribly worried unless you start to see any accelerated wear with the aftermarket belt.

 

I use Conti belts (which are German) and change them every 2 years.

 

Just make sure they don't come apart and get into the timing belt even if they are not stressed during engine operation.

 

The belt I took off was flat spotted like yours on the inner side. I also had a roller that was very tight to turn by hand. The roller had a flat spot from the belt rubbing on it, I assumed the belt was flattened from rubbing on the sticking roller. I also agonized over Porsche vs. aftermarket belts, I finally just bought everything from Ian at 944online as he's been so patient with my many questions. I'm about 2 good hours from starting my car: 1 cooling hose, airbox, starter, oil and coolant, fingers crossed.

Arne.

 

For reference...

The belts for my '90 S2 from Sunset Porsche were...

Timing $54.00
Balance $79.33
AC/ALT $11.84
PS $7.87

That included the +15% but not the shipping.

Also, their rebuilt water pump was $87.38.

After a bad experience with aftermarket TBelt on my jetta, I went with factory... Call me a chicken, but I like my 16 valves just the way they are - thank you!

 

I'd suggest replacing Water Pump and Thermostat! Those get me every time, so I am now paranoid, and make it part of the belt changes every single time now!

Plus both hoses for the radiator.

- Julie