Ralf Oehlerich

I have a 87 944 N/A and have installed a new balance belt and timing belt. After about 500 miles I adjusted the belt tension via the spring loaded auto tensioner only to find out that the spring has maxed out. Meaning it won't go any tighter. Now after about another 2k miles I hear a sound that makes me believe the belt is loose and hitting the housing (when in low idle 900rpm). I want to take the covers off and check the tension again.

What do I do if I can not increase the tension anymore?

Thanks,

Ralf

Devia

Replace the tensioners before you blow the valves!

- Julie

Dal Heger

Get a new timing belt. It shouldn't be able to max out the tensioner. Sounds like the belt was either aftermarket or has a manufacturing flaw.

Only buy PORSCHE timing belts. The belt is important enough to spend the extra money to make sure that it's right. Besides if the Porsche belt fails due to a manufacturing flaw Porsche will most likely warranty the work to fix the head.

Get it done NOW! Don't drive the car unless you want to replace a few valves.

My $0.02.

Dal.

Ralf Oehlerich

Dal,
I just checked the tension again and it seems to be OK. WHat will happen if the belt is a little too loose? I think it may be the balance belt that was making the noise. I will close verything up and see what happens.
Thanks for the replies. Ralf

awilson40

The balance belts will whir a bit and seem loose by feel. DO NOT run the timing belt loose. If you skip a tooth, you will be doing a head job. I check mine about twice a year just cuz its easy and gives me peace of mind.

Ralf Oehlerich

Guys,
I just finished and it was the balance belt that was a little lose. I did check the timing belt and although it is maxed out, it is not lose. I will keep you guys posted if I do skip a tooth.
I put it all back together and the scraping noise is gone.