Cambelt re-tension after a heat cycle

[brian j 32]

Haynes recommends heat cycling the engine after fitting a cambelt and then re-tensioning it. it always feels like a faff for no gain. 
what are people’s opinions.  Is it really necessary? 

[petert 588]

Why not? It’s dead set easy if it’s a spring loaded type.

[Tom Fenton 1,542]

I’ve done loads of XU cambelts without issue, it’s never even occurred to me to do this.

[brian j 32]

Thx both. 
 

As to why, it’s a bit annoying to have to remove the pulley and aux belt again, and I hate the access to the rear tensioner bolt when there is a fuel filter fitted.

[Tom Fenton 1,542]

The rear tensioner bolt I’ve found the easiest way is a 16mm deep socket on a long extension bar and do it from the gearbox side. 

[pug_ham 244 3 Cars]

Same as Tom, done loads on both 8v & 16v but never had / thought to do this after a heat cycle.

 

Haynes only seems to mention it for the sprung tensioner too from a quick glance.

 

g

[brian j 32]

Thanks all. I did heat cycle and re-tension in the end. Tom’s shout for access is a great idea, and I found (as you all probably already knew) that even with the double pulley a/c setup, there is just enough room to re-tension and refit the covers without having to remove anything again.