My Timing Belt Experience

[sleepydsm]

For the first time ever, I tackled a timing belt job on a DSM. I did it to my 1992 Tsi AWD 5 speed that had 142k. The previous owner did not have any reciepts so I did it for a piece of mind. The parts coming off looked new, so that was kind of a relief. I knew now though that everything would be exactly how I wanted it. I did have an extra set of hands that made things a lot easier, but I must say doing the timing belt is extremely easy. I for one was very scared and intimidated, but looking back it's easy as hell! As long as you use some common sense, you'll be fine! My friend managed to put the timing mark plate between the balance shaft belt and the timing belt on backwards, so that the timing was off two teeth. I tore the car down and fixed it in less than 2 hours. Thank god that didn't bend any valves lol. I recommend that more of you try it, but make sure you have an experience person there to help you (I didn't and we managed fine!). It'll save you a nice chunk of change, and you can feel special knowing you successfully completed one of the more difficult tasks of owning these cars.
Kevin Swalchick