I have had one belt snap, on a Volvo 245 i'd only just bought.

Non interference engine, new belt marked with three different markers which coincided with same markers found on the approriate pulleys which in turn lined up with marks on engine casting, nothing could be simpler no workshop manual needed self explanatory, once i'd got the kit probably half an hour saw the job done all cars should be like this.

I've done some that are remarkably simple to do, and have a spring to set tension and then the tensioner is bolted solid in the right place and does not rely on the spring to maintain tension.

The engine in my Landcruiser is supposed to be non interference, but quad cam, fed by two timing belt camshaft sprockets, i preferred not to get involved with thanks all the same, Toyota charged me just over £300 incl coolant renewal, which was cheaper than any indy quote, not worth not doing IMHO.

That is a very good price.

Seen some pics on another forum, starter failed on footballers Bentley, front of car off, engine completely removed, then dismantle plumbing and manifolds etc from one side to access the starter...who dreams up something like this, not as i'd want one of the horrid things i hasten to add.

There are some Audi's that require a similar amount of work to change the thermostat that lives behind the timing belt. front of car off, radiator out, timing belt off etc. Rather stupid design in my opinion and if they are going this route, why not use a better quality thermostat? I suppose we already know the answer to that, it only has to last until the warranty runs out and then they can scalp the cars owner for replacing it.

Heigh ho - yet another sad story. I do wonder if these post-inept-service disasters would outnumber the disasters that might occur if everyone just left their cambelts alone until they started making an odd noise or looked significantly worn. That's what I have always done and I haven't yet had a disaster in hundreds of thousands of miles and 35yrs. Although I do pick my engines very carefully.

Had one go on an XR3i (remember those?)...

Yes I do! And here's an old post on the subject!!

www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=7920

I think I might be the only surviving poster from it - my current cambelt (16yrs and counting) has clearly lasted longer than they have!