New Timing Belt Too Old?
10-24-2003, 11:24 PM
#1
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New Timing Belt Too Old?
I got a brand new genuine Porsche timing belt, still in the box, off eBay. The date of manufacture is December '95. Is this belt too old to use?
10-24-2003, 11:26 PM
#2
Nordschleife Master
Is it for your 87?
If so, I wouldn't use it.
If for the 78, I wouldn't worry too much.
Rubber can vulcanize with age, as it can also dry rot. The fibers that give it it's strength, can degrade.
If Porsche says 5 years is the max, they're probly thinking 5 years in a normal enviroment. Which includes heat and oil from the engine. As well as grit, grim, and moisture. Heat, and moisture can greatly accelerate the degradion of the rubber, and the fibers.
Result? I wouldn't trust it to keep my valves away from my pistions. If it's for the non-interference engine, I might think of cutting costs.
If so, I wouldn't use it.
If for the 78, I wouldn't worry too much.
Rubber can vulcanize with age, as it can also dry rot. The fibers that give it it's strength, can degrade.
If Porsche says 5 years is the max, they're probly thinking 5 years in a normal enviroment. Which includes heat and oil from the engine. As well as grit, grim, and moisture. Heat, and moisture can greatly accelerate the degradion of the rubber, and the fibers.
Result? I wouldn't trust it to keep my valves away from my pistions. If it's for the non-interference engine, I might think of cutting costs.
10-24-2003, 11:33 PM
#3
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It's for the '87. I don't think I'll risk it. I saw something on TV recently about tires having a shelf life of 6-10 years max. It follows that belts and hoses would also have a shelf life.
