Date: Thu, 01 Sep 2005 03:54:15 GMT From: "James Sweet" <jamessweetnospamail.com> Subject: Re: SAAB Quality Since GM?
> That really is the point. Having to replace a timing belt at some considerable > expense at regular intervals is not a great feature. > > The only explanation I've ever heard in favour of timing belts is low audible > noise ( Oh and maybe reduced cost for manufacturer - but that's not something > of interest to the purchaser ) . In view of the excellent sound insulation in a > Saab - that's not really a convincing argument. > > Give me a timing chain any day. > I'm somewhat split on the topic, Volvo has always used timing belts on their OHC engines, but up until the 90's they all had it right on the front so replacing it is very easy, not very expensive, and is just something you do ever 40-75K depending on whether it's an 8v non interference or 16v interference engine. I like the longevity of the chains Saab uses especially with them being back up against the firewall but then again chains can and do stretch and break and given it's not a regular maintenance item it's easy to not see it coming and be left replacing the engine. A friend of a friend recently lost his 9K to a timing chain failure.
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