j.kenzie@sbcglobal.net

Hi,
I've looked around for a procedure on this. Most of the info is for 32V. I think 16V 84S should be similar and maybe easier. I will buy the Kempf tool. My question is what is the simplest way, best way or quickest way to gain access to the belt. Do I have to pull the fan, upper radiator hose or other belts. I'd like to disturb as little as needed but I want to be able to adjust tension properly.
Thanks in andvance.
Dave McK.

Garth S

You are correct - the 16v is noticeably easier to check than the 32 v, as there is less to remove: the tension check procedure is identical on both 16 & 32 v..
On the 16v, all that need be removed is the right cam cover .... a couple of bolts ans thread it out through the coolant hoses. If you wish, drain some coolant via the bottom rad valve and remove the hoses.
Set to true TDC via the 3 index marks turning always clockwise on the 27mm crank bolt, etc. Check, and then two x 360 deg rotation to recheck, refill tensioner .... a good half hour will see you safe.

mark kibort

you can do it without removing anything, but its a tight squeeze a 3rd hand helps
MK

PorKen

Let's see...open hood...check tension...close hood.

G Man

On the subject of checking belt tesnion. I have seen on the Jeager web site a procedure for checking the belt tension by tone. They pluck the belt like a guitar string and basically tune the belt to achieve a certiane tone when the correct tension is met. Anyone use this method? Is it reliable and accurate?

j.kenzie@sbcglobal.net

Ken,
Is there any problem running with no cam belt covers?
I've enjoyed your many posts and projects.
Dave McK.

PorKen

Dave,

Two years or so without covers, and no cover related issues. I had to reroute a couple of wires after removal, but that's all. It surely makes it easier to work on, and I can see where all the oil (and occasional coolant) leaks are coming from.

My gears are getting shiny, but they were used when I put them on, so I don't know if the wear rate has been affected by road grime. The belly pan keeps the big stuff out.

I have to guestimate how far to push the Kempf tool towards the engine without the rear cover to press against. Someday I'll make a plate for this.

j.kenzie@sbcglobal.net

Tension checked; thanks to your encouragement. It was no problem getting exposure (84S 16V). The tension was perfect, it was 2 years and 3K miles since TB change by PO. The belt looked fine and was centered on the pulley.
I went to fill my tensioner, I pull fill and bleed plugs. I shot 90W gear oil in slowly and waited for it to come out the bleed hole. No oil from bleed hole but oil did spill down from maybe top of tensioer area, I assume a cracked boot. Well I figure some oil got inside and it has to be better than before.
What kind of urgency do I have to pull the front end off to check the tensioner?
I've gotten a little braver but I hate to do things that aren't needed for fear I'll goof something up.
Thanks again,
Dave McK.