Timing Belt Components OEM vs Aftermarket

[gdal]

Hello all,

I'm due for a timing belt replacement on my 2.5L and was wondering if anyone had any experiences (good or bad) with aftermarket brands for our timing belt components. I'm aware that Ford (Motorcraft) parts are supplied by other manufacturers and the original supplier markings are usually on the factory parts that are pulled out.

I don't mind spending a little more money for Motorcraft parts, but DIY'ers usually realize which aftermarket components to trust.

Thanks in advance,
G

 

[Mikel89us]

Most of the companies that make the parts are dependable. The big thing is proper installation. Over tightening the belt is really the only way stock or aftermarket parts fail. Buy a good bet though.

 

[Hagan]

You can't over tighten the timing belt. It has a tensioner

 

[Mikel89us]

Yea you can, its called a screw driver. I usually put a bit more tension on mine because as the engine gets older the spring rusts and weakens and I don't buy new ones. If you put new parts on, you don't need to put extra tension on it. A lot of times an old tensioner with a dirty head will under tighten the belt.

 

[Hagan]

It had a bolt on mine. But your right you can adjust them. I was thinking of my girlfriends Passat.