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931 Timing belt tensioning
Posted: Thu Jul 07, 2022 5:39 pm
by kmaneh
What is the correct way to tension a new timing belt on a 924 Turbo. Or is it just not as critical as on a 944?

Re: 931 Timing belt tensioning
Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2022 6:59 am
by painenneck
I just replaced mine, though not a turbo but same engine, and I used the twist method to measure tightness. It is not as critical as on the 2.5 as the 2.0 is a non-interference engine...but a failed belt will leave you stranded either way, just not as costly.
Re: 931 Timing belt tensioning
Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2022 7:09 am
by Tom
painenneck wrote: Fri Jul 08, 2022 6:59 am
I just replaced mine, though not a turbo but same engine, and I used the twist method to measure tightness. It is not as critical as on the 2.5 as the 2.0 is a non-interference engine...but a failed belt will leave you stranded either way, just not as costly.
I'm not a 924/931 expert by a long shot, but I thought the turbo version of that motor was an interference motor, unlike the n/a version....
Re: 931 Timing belt tensioning
Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2022 7:21 am
by painenneck
You're right; I stand corrected.
Re: 931 Timing belt tensioning
Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2022 7:33 am
by painenneck
I have a 944 also that I use the twist method for the belts...but I also run with scissors so...
Re: 931 Timing belt tensioning
Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2022 8:33 am
by Zirconocene
@Tom : I only just saw the part you designed, via the newsletter, but any chance that your tension tester will work for the 924? I know just about zero with those cars, but your tool is really slick and might be something useful here.
Cheers
Re: 931 Timing belt tensioning
Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2022 9:17 am
by Tom
Zirconocene wrote: Fri Jul 08, 2022 8:33 am
@Tom : I only just saw the part you designed, via the newsletter, but any chance that your tension tester will work for the 924? I know just about zero with those cars, but your tool is really slick and might be something useful here.
Cheers
Well, I'm sure the concept could be adapted for the original 924 motors, and the 928 for that matter (and whatever else), but the current 944 tool is heavily dependent on the physical layout of the 8v 944 motor (pivot point boss, water pump rail, location of belt, etc.). I think it's safe to say this tool would not work on that motor. No reason we couldn't work on a tool for other motors if there is demand for one, however... I'm hoping to do a 944 balance shaft tension tool next.
Re: 931 Timing belt tensioning
Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2022 10:06 am
by Zirconocene
Gotcha. I've never seen a 924 motor in person, much less taken note of bolt placement, etc., so I guess I was hoping that maybe there was a lucky shortcut.
In any case, I am totally on board with the balance belt tensioner being next up, as well as anything you have in mind that's 928 related.
Cheers
Re: 931 Timing belt tensioning
Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2022 10:30 am
by Tom
Zirconocene wrote: Fri Jul 08, 2022 10:06 am
Gotcha. I've never seen a 924 motor in person, much less taken note of bolt placement, etc., so I guess I was hoping that maybe there was a lucky shortcut.
In any case, I am totally on board with the balance belt tensioner being next up, as well as anything you have in mind that's 928 related.
Cheers
Post some pictures of those 928s, including in the Excellence picture thread if you are so inclined.

I'm hoping this site can eventually help the 944 and 928 crowds compare notes more, but we need more 928 folks to join and speak up. Despite occupying the high and low end of the product range back in the day, these cars have a ton in common and their respective owners could learn a lot from each other I'd say.

Re: 931 Timing belt tensioning
Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2022 10:37 am
by Zirconocene
I'm totally inclined, but my cars are a mess right now. I'm doing a motor mount, oil pan gasket, and steering rack rebuild on the S4, and the GT is sort of in pieces, as it was bought as a project after some body damage. Depending on the timing, the S4 might be off the lift in time to submit something and I would *love* to see my car in print (excited fanboy noises follow).
Cheers