First off id like to see if i cannot get flamed in this thread, with that said.....My car is in "service mode" right now front end is off and im replacing the Camshaft tensioner just like to say what a bitch of a job. Im defininately going to change the timing belt, idler roller and tensionerrollerwhile im in here because i know it needs it im at 80k. My question is, is it necessary to replace the water pump and thermostat or the tensioneretc. while im in here or is that just a precationary measure that really doesnt need to be taken, if i dont do this water pump and such, 10k down the road am i going to have to pull it apart to change it beacuse the bastards leaking? Just asking around for anyone that has any experience with this matter thanks.

 

"There are two reasons why it is important to replace much more than just the timing belt. As with many repair procedures there is significant labor involved to get to the part in question [removing the front bumper and at least partially removing the radiator support]. Other parts that could fail based on age should be replaced "while you are in there" to save on future labor. Also - and more importantly - things like the water pump and pulleys should be replaced because if they lock up they will kill a new timing belt and potentially kill your engine. This is not the time to cut corners. Replace all the parts listed below.

- The timing belt
- Water pump with gasket
- Serpentine belt
- Idler roller
- Tensioner roller
- Thermostat with O-ring"

Resource: http://www.audiworld.com/tech/eng63.shtml

 

I'm pretty sure the serpentine belt takes a special tool to lock something-er-other in place....speaking of I need to get that tool back from the guy who did the work for me!! It's like $120 or something and can be bought in a kit from ECS tuning.

 

Yes, do the whole job, plan on being pissed off most of the week working on it. It's nice to have the cam lock bar to keep the timing. I put the belt on with out removing the cam gears, just do the crank last, & keep on the tension on the crank & tensioner, make sure the cam part is tight, you can NOT be even 1 tooth off.

You might as well do the cam seals & gaskets.

 

Wow! This tool costs $180 and it's currently out of stock on Ecstuning. I wounder if I can buy it for a better price from somewhere else...



"Cam securing bar for Audi V6 cars from 1996 to 2001 & Passats from 1998-2005. This ECS securing tool is needed for the critical task of securing both engine banks camshafts at T.D.C. when replacing the timing belt. This kit comes with the necessary crank shaft locking pin.
Most tools of this kind do NOT perform this task on both 12v V6 & 30v V6's. This ECS exclusive designed tool does both applications so it has a much wider application base."

 

ZDMAK sells the pin and bar for $99. http://www.zdmak.com/wbstore/main.as...=1&LowCt=0

 

wow, very very good news! Got into the front end and whammo timing belt, water pump, rollers already done....YES!....well sucks i had to pull it all apart to find out but whatever. i changed the belt again just cuz i was there but what a pleasant surprise

 

That's one of the best surprises you'll get with these cars besides finding out that it already has k04s. Now youcan fill out the timing belt replacement sticker underneath the hood.