Re:timing belts

[AKress1948@domain.elided]

the more we hear about how other manufacturers do things, i realize that the 
things we complain about alfa (fiat) doing are just the things that Alfa does 
to keep current w/ changes in manufacuturing methodology.  
we whine about the change from timing chains to belts - in reality - everyone 
is changing.  stepper motors - the audi and saab and others have the same 
problems.  i;m sure the list is a long one. at the end of the day, i'd bet 
that the alfas are no worse and probably better than a lot of other marques. 
andy
btw - re slipped timing belt damage -  this may make you feel a little better 
about your lot in life - 
have a friend who works in a ferrari shop - customer brought in a 512 TR - 
slipped belt, bent valves, rebuild cyl head (no machine work) $20,000 + (not 
a typo).

another friend has audi A4 - tensioner failed (btw, audi has - at least as 
late as last summer - no published recommendation on belt change intervals) - 
audi does not allow head rebuilds - have to buy a complete rebuilt unit for 
$3,400).  
i'm sure the harder you look, the uglier it gets.  pretty soon, alfa gets to 
look downright cheap to own.
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