Cambelt Change On A 1.8 Diesel

[yellow rallye steve 0]

Hi Guys,

Can anyone tell me if there is an idiots guide to changing a cambelt on the 1.8 diesel? The one thing I don't understand is the tensioning? What's that all about and how do you do it?

Many thanks

Steve.

[Anthony 1,003]

Haynes manual for the XU diesel engines explains it well from memory, but if it's the same as the last 205 diesel that I changed the cambelt on had a spring loaded tensioner that you undid with the square end on a ratchet and was thus a doddle and hard to screw up

[yellow rallye steve 0]

Haynes manual for the XU diesel engines explains it well from memory, but if it's the same as the last 205 diesel that I changed the cambelt on had a spring loaded tensioner that you undid with the square end on a ratchet and was thus a doddle and hard to screw up

Thanks Anthony, I'll see if I can get hold of one of those manuals. Sorry to sound like a complete retard, but do you have to measure the tensioner somehow? If so, how?

Cheers Steve

[Anthony 1,003]

My memory is a bit hazy as it was some time ago that I last did one, but I'm pretty sure the spring sets the tension automatically, much like an 8v GTi, and hence you basically just release the spring tension and that tensions the belt, and then tighten the locking bolt(s) and you're done.

[yellow rallye steve 0]

My memory is a bit hazy as it was some time ago that I last did one, but I'm pretty sure the spring sets the tension automatically, much like an 8v GTi, and hence you basically just release the spring tension and that tensions the belt, and then tighten the locking bolt(s) and you're done.

Well if it's that easy I'll going to give it a go. Thanks for your help mate, I'll let you know how it goes after the weekend.

All the best

Steve.

[smithy 1]

As Anthony said fairly easy.

 

Cam and pump sprockets lock with m8 bolts there is a tool for crank that you put through block in to flywheel but if you don't have one I just lock top end and paint mark crank sprocket.

The Tensioner is indeed spring loaded couple of 13mm nuts from memory hold it then use a 1 inch 3/8 extension to push Tensioner back and secure 1 nut.

Fit belt and slacken nut so Tensioner springs back,give engine 2 full turns with a spanner and re check tension.