KEMPF TOOL PICKLE
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Racer
Joined: Jan 2004
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From: Houston, TX
KEMPF TOOL PICKLE
OK I’m almost done with the timing belt service. As advertised I ran across most of the usual problems including stubborn harmonic balancer, spindly broken water pump bolts, nasty little Allen bolts that like to round out, one wrong part delay and a long wait for most of everything else. Now I’m ready to install the top cam covers and button her up, but there are no Kempf tools available so that I may check the tension. This thing has been on order for two weeks plus. Today 928 specialists said the tensioners would not be in for at least 4 more weeks. Aaaargghhhhh! 
Must drive 928 NOW! 
I am tempted to leave the timing belt as is (the should barely be able to turn the belt 90 degrees test) drive it for a couple weekends and check the tension on the belt once the tool finally makes it in. Is this Foolish? I have done many timing belts (on other cars) and never had a problem. Am I asking for trouble here, or am I ok for a few weeks?
Must drive 928 NOW! I am tempted to leave the timing belt as is (the should barely be able to turn the belt 90 degrees test) drive it for a couple weekends and check the tension on the belt once the tool finally makes it in. Is this Foolish? I have done many timing belts (on other cars) and never had a problem. Am I asking for trouble here, or am I ok for a few weeks?
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Joined: Jun 2005
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From: Park Ridge, IL (near Chicago)
Jager has an audio recording of a properly tensioned belt. You can download it here:
http://www.jageng.com/auto_1.htm
They say it's accurate. I don't know if anyone on the list has used it. I've only read about it.
FWIW,
Dave
http://www.jageng.com/auto_1.htm
They say it's accurate. I don't know if anyone on the list has used it. I've only read about it.
FWIW,
Dave
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From: Boulder Creek, CA
You know, if I was stuck in the middle of nowhere trying to tension my belt, I'd be happy to have that sound file. I don't have to be as paranoid as you 32V guys, but I'd still want to get one of the mechanical gauges on it ASAP.
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I don't want to offend anyone..but you can't reliably set your belt tension by sound...although you may be able to "luck out" or get it close enough to usually survive..but the odds are about as good that you'll miss. We all have different ears (That reminds me of a woman I used to know).
However, the Kempf tool (I love mine) is not calibrated accurately for the newer 928s and should be read at the upper end of the window rather than the center. I also have the 9201 Porsche tool and have calibrated my Kempf tool with it and it's actually a smidgeon (technical term) above the window. I LOVE the Kempf tool since it's easy to use and, once you know it's limitations, it's extremely quick and easy to use...whereas the 9201 is a PITA. I use the Kempf first..then final check the belt with the 9201...then again, I've been accused of being ****. Heinrich can probably verify that last statement if you need references. Henrich lives in the state that sells more Russet potatoes than Idaho does. He doesn't really worship 928s but may be getting close. I's doubt he'd use his ears for setting his belt tension.
Harvey
Disclaimer: Heinrich's ears are OK. It's what's between them that seeks 928s. Many people on the list, including me, suffer from the same 928 disease. Any Psychologists on the list? Group rates? 928s Anonymous anyone? I digress...sorry. Back to my 928.
However, the Kempf tool (I love mine) is not calibrated accurately for the newer 928s and should be read at the upper end of the window rather than the center. I also have the 9201 Porsche tool and have calibrated my Kempf tool with it and it's actually a smidgeon (technical term) above the window. I LOVE the Kempf tool since it's easy to use and, once you know it's limitations, it's extremely quick and easy to use...whereas the 9201 is a PITA. I use the Kempf first..then final check the belt with the 9201...then again, I've been accused of being ****. Heinrich can probably verify that last statement if you need references. Henrich lives in the state that sells more Russet potatoes than Idaho does. He doesn't really worship 928s but may be getting close. I's doubt he'd use his ears for setting his belt tension.
Harvey
Disclaimer: Heinrich's ears are OK. It's what's between them that seeks 928s. Many people on the list, including me, suffer from the same 928 disease. Any Psychologists on the list? Group rates? 928s Anonymous anyone? I digress...sorry. Back to my 928.
928 Collector
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From: Seattle
Au contraire Harv I use my ears all the time. My left ear is a lot more tense, so I like to use it on fresh belts. If I hook the top of the lobe just by the tensioner roller, I can get a pretty good "feel" for the good vibes 
.... what they do with the sound file is to measure the frequency of vibes on a pooder. Seems to make sense but truly I would just use a tool. Without it, I would absolutely not feel comfortable starting the engine.
.... what they do with the sound file is to measure the frequency of vibes on a pooder. Seems to make sense but truly I would just use a tool. Without it, I would absolutely not feel comfortable starting the engine.
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From: Texas
Jeff,
Can't bring the car - it is out of commission until I replace the MAF connector - I am waiting on one to arrive any day now from John Speake.
Waht time would be a good time ?(not meaning to hijack this thread)
Can't bring the car - it is out of commission until I replace the MAF connector - I am waiting on one to arrive any day now from John Speake.
Waht time would be a good time ?(not meaning to hijack this thread)
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From: Northwest
Originally Posted by heinrich
Au contraire Harv I use my ears all the time. My left ear is a lot more tense, so I like to use it on fresh belts. If I hook the top of the lobe just by the tensioner roller, I can get a pretty good "feel" for the good vibes .... what they do with the sound file is to measure the frequency of vibes on a pooder. Seems to make sense but truly I would just use a tool. Without it, I would absolutely not feel comfortable starting the engine.
.... what they do with the sound file is to measure the frequency of vibes on a pooder. Seems to make sense but truly I would just use a tool. Without it, I would absolutely not feel comfortable starting the engine.