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406 Cam belt

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2021 7:57 pm
by Xavier
Hi. Many thanks for letting me join. I live in France and have just bought my second 406. This one is a 1998 1.9td Berline saloon. Now wishing I hadn't scrapped the other one as I could have used the bits... Ho-hum. Anyway, the garage I bought it from assured me that they had done the cam belt and water pump. Sadly, I don't believe them - there is no sign that the work has been done. And as the last change is down as 2009, I want to be sure. One thing I am sure of is the mileage is genuine at 80000 kms - yep, 50000 miles. So my question is: Is there a quick way to check the belt? I did do a belt change on the last one which, for a home mechanic, was a bit of a trial, but I don't want to start stripping away stuff I don't need to just to get a quick shuftee... Any help gratefully received. Look forward to a long association with the forum! Many thanks, guys :-)

Re: 406 Cam belt

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2021 12:34 am
by Doggy
Hi and welcome aboard. 8)

I've changed 5 or 6 HDi timing belts over the years and to be honest I've never removed one that looked worn or damaged despite many of them having done 5 years or at least 70k miles. In other words I don't think you can tell looking at it.

I think the best approach is to realise that you're unlikely to have to do it twice unless you have the car for more than 5 years or do a lot of miles. On the other hand you will probably have to do it at some point, so plan it in for a convenient point in the next 6 months and get it done for peace of mind.

Re: 406 Cam belt

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2021 6:26 pm
by Xavier
Many thanks, Doggy. You've relieved a fretting mind. Appreciate your reply. Best. Steve (Xavier - couldn't find anything to do with Steve which hadn't already been taken)