Not sure if this is a good idea if the guy isn't sure whether the belt was changed at 78,000 miles.
Maybe luck was on your side - a snapped belt can cause a hell of a lot of damage even whilst the MOT guy revs for the smoke test. flick a coin *will it* *won't it*
Bill
This is where recommendation of a local independent is priceless.
-- R
Why not, If they refuse to, then chances are that they never changed it, but just want the extra cash out of you. This is not the same as asking to see the worn belt BEFORE they fit the new one.
oops sorry thought it was said show the old belt before fitting new - read question wrong
Bill
with regards the smoke test i alter the throttle cable to limit the revs to
3800rpm so it doesn't sit on the rev limiter. takes 10 seconds to do. in the engine bay, just lift the circlip, push the cable to the left and replace the clip. never failed the MOT because of it.
What about the testers that don't sit in the car to rev the engine, but use the lever direct on the pump? Thus bypassing your "mod" and enabling full revs.
hey i never said it was perfect Nigel! Blimey. Just a bit a friendly help that costs nothing and could save you a snapped belt. At my local garage they work in pairs and use the pedal. Infact the other garage did too.
Good point
Bill
I remember when there was the time belts were being broken each week, that's why most garages decided not 'to' do the smoke test at the beginning Now they ask if you know when the last belt was fitted to cover themselves.
Bill
Can cambelts not really cope with high revs on a Diesel car ?
Does the same apply to Petrol cars ?
If I were to continually drive around on the redline (I don't, before you ask :), would my cambelt snap prematurely ?
Yes up to a point. That point being the recommended mileage for renewal!
Not on an MOT as it is only revved to around 3K. But they still have recommended renewal times.
Sod's Law says "Probably"
like i said, not perfect but 'could' save you a snapped belt. costs nothing. easy to do. each to their own. bet you wish you had if it snaps at the MOT though and he was sat in the car.
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