re:When to change the V6 timing belt?

[steve@ipecac.engr.sgi.com (Steve Valin)]

Doug Rudoff <DougR@arkspace.com> wonders:

<< My '92 100CSQ (with the power loss problem) will be hitting 60k miles
soon. The dealer quoted me $600 for the 60k service, which does not
include new oxygen sensors nor a timing belt change. I was told by them
they recommend changing the belt at 100k miles. 

$600 sounds like a lot of money, if they don't replace the OXY and 
timing belt.  Actually, the maintenance manual doesn't say when to 
replace the timing belt or OXY.  60K service consists of:

change oil and filter.
replace air cleaner and spark plugs. 
check exhaust.  Check for misc leaks.  Read diag codes. 
change brake fluid every 2 years.  Since it probably has never been done,
probably not a bad idea.

I don't have the bentley, so I don't know what it recommends.  In addition
I would replace both belts and maybe change coolant.  Also if you have
an automatic, you should probably change the fluid.  This was supposed
to have been done at 45K.

I would find out that exactly what the dealer does for $600 and compare it
with your indy shop.

<< Also, is the V6 an interference engine or not? Yeah, I know it's
probably better to be safe than sorry, but if it's designed to last
another 40,000 miles, I'd rather save the money for fixing my power loss
problem and wait. >>

It's compression ratio is around 10:1.  It's likely an interference
engine. 

Replacing the timing belt on a V6 100 isn't that hard.  I'm not a trained
mechanic and I can do it in around an hour.  Of course the first time
I did it, it took longer, but now I know the tricks.  Too bad you weren't
located in the SF bay area.  I'd give you a hand...

-steve

--
Steve Valin	http://reality.sgi.com/steve_engr	steve@sgi.com
    		"Time wounds all heels"  -Crackerbash