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MG MGF Technical - Cam belt replacement

Hi,
What is the current feeling on intervals between cam belt changes? I am considering the purchase of an early, but low mileage, MGF it's had one belt change but that was 8 years ago, the current mileage is only 42,000. Is changing the belt on a vvc engine a diy prospect and what are the best belts to use?
Thanks
Steve

The MGF life span for cam belt is 5 years maximum (regardless of mileage) and I understand it was lowered to 4 years for the TF.

OR

60,000 miles (not kilometres) if they com up quicker than the 5 years (4 years).

Don't be tempted to put it off - it could cost your a NEW engine.
Ted Newman

I think there are just the standard belts, The Mpi is do-able if you're a keen diyer with a good socket set, but it's not the easiest of jobs

.. cambelt goes round an engine mount
.. Starter must be removed to lock crank (tool needed)
.. tool needed to lock cams

I assume the VVC is just one more (easy access) belt

my advice, unless very keen I'd take it to a shop
Will Munns

I was under the impression that the best belt you could buy was the Piper which I bought from Mike Satur you can fit his stronger bolts kit too while you are at it.
Charless

To add to Will's note the torque figures for the engine mounting and the crankshaft pulley ( which also has to be removed ) are high so they adds to the difficulty, so you need some good/powerful tools to be able to do the job.
Dave

I have had a few F/TF's with under 30000km but are five years or very close and I have changed the cam belts on all of them. The belts have looked fine but for pease of mind they should be done. I have seen cars with 16000km and some with 101000km break so for a reasonable cost DO IT.
Andrew W Regens

By all means get the Piper belts and new camwheel bolts from Mike S. This is no "plug" or advertising - just plain fact ! My 12 year old VVC is now on itīs 3rd set of belts. Comparing the first original belt with the Piper oneīs tells it all. There is a different manufacturing process used with no joined ends on the Piper belts. IMHO close to impossible to break.
But that gives peace of mind ,NOT prolonged change intervals... If You DIY, (Roger P has a very good write-up how to) donīt forget to check waterpump tightness as well as tensioner.If in slightest doubt change both. / Carl.
Carl Blom

Thanks for the advice, can anyone give me a link to the belt change write up?
Steve

Better still, here's the video! http://www.mgf.ultimatemg.com/group2/engines/video/cambelt.wmv
Rob Bell

This thread was discussed between 29/07/2008 and 01/08/2008

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