Chain link

I am looking for a replacement for a Vauxhall Corsa 1.2 16V that has a chain cam. Having had two expensive failures of cam belts both with Rover /Honda 213 engines I am nervous about buying anything that has a cam belt engine. However, I notice that some manufacturers now state huge mileages and long times between cam belt changes e.g. Citroen. So, are Belt cams the problem they used to be? Can I discount Cam v Chain when buying a replacement for the Corsa?

Asked on 28 February 2009 by

Answered by Honest John

Chains are better. But even they can have problems with their plastic
tensioners fail. VAG belts are best changed at 4 years or 40k miles. Belts on engines like PSA/Ford's 1.6 and 2.0 diesels are good for about 60k miles. Belts of Fiesta/Focus 1.2, 1.4 and 1.6 engines are good for about 80k miles, though most Focus 1.6s are now chain. If belts come off FIAT 1.2 'FIRE' engines, no problem because they are
non-interference and valves do not hit pistons.

Tags: belts and chains cam belts technical issues owning

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