Cambelt change on Fiat Punto

they are a pleasure to do as they are so simple and access is good. The only problem is that in theory a tensioning tool is needed to set the right belt tension. I have never used one and I don't actually know anyone that does. I would set the tension by feel, allowing a new belt to be twisted nearly a quarter turn on the long run using two fingers to twist with. run the engine for a while, listen to make sure it is not too tight (will whine) or loose (flaps about) , turn off and double check and bolt the covers back on.

The engine is a freewheeling type, so unless you are very unlucky a belt failure will NOT damage the engine, so you don't need to be in too much of a hurry to change it.

Mrcheerful

Thanks, I was hoping from a reply from yourself!!!

What are the steps involved?

In broad terms:

take off the wheel, take off the splash guard, remove the alternator belt, move or remove the coolant tank, undo the crank pulley, remove the cam belt cover, turn the engine to line up the marks on crank pulley and cam wheel. slacken tensioner, replace belt, retension, recheck marks, replace crank pulley, start and run, recheck, reassemble the rest.

If you are not too confident then at least get a manual to read up and see the the pictures.

It really is the simplest and safest one to do that I can think of.

Mrcheerful

Thank you.

Just one further question. I have seen references to cambelt and cambelt kit? Is the only difference that the 'kit' also contains the tensioner? Is it also best to replace the tensioner whilst you have the belt off?

On a difficult engine or one known to be problematic then change the tensioner every time, on a low mileage, easy one like yours I would not bother unless it feels rough or is noisy. The kits generally have a belt, one or more tensioners plus bolts etc. if needed.

Replacing the water pump is worth considering, but probably not at your mileage, maybe next time.

Seconded. The only reason the belt is being changed is due to chances of the rubber perishing with age.

Try looking here:

Another Dave

What's a freewheeling engine?

Rob Graham

one that does NOT bend any valves if the belt breaks

"Mrcheerful" gurgled happily, sounding much like they were saying:

Ah. You mean non-interference.

I've never heard "freewheeling" used in that context, and it makes no sense whatsoever.

Ah! Ta.

It is the term used by Autodata (world wide automotive information supplier)