SEPTEMBER 2023 AFTERMARKET 31 examine the crankshaft journal and bearing, remarkably with no excessive wear or discolouration due to friction whatsoever. Please refer to Fig.3 and Fig.4. The reassembly went smoothly after we obtained a full belt kit with tensioner, pulleys, crankshaft bolt and crinkle washer. Please refer to Fig.5 and Fig.6. If you recall my previous comments about key less sprockets and stretch bolts the crankshaft bolt is set at 60nm plus 5x 90 degrees. This must never be reused as indeed should any stretch bolt. Good running order The vehicle was duly restored to good running order, fully serviced with brakes, two tyres, tracking, wipers etc, and a personal Frank Massey valet, all at a cost of £3,000, valued online at £6,500. Onto the most important aspect of this story, which as always is; “Why?” Incorrect oil specification? I do have knowledge of dealerships buying oil in bulk to cut service costs, a practice also undertaken by many independents, so there’s that. Could it be the result of oil flush additives being applied? I have been advised that these can cause belt deterioration. Might this be the answer? On this occasion, I do not have a definitive conclusion, which as a diagnostic engineer, concerns me. Coupled with cars from several French marques like Peugeot and Citroen also suffering premature belt failure, I think need to learn more. Fig. 2 Fig. 7 Fig. 6 www.aftermarketonline.net Fig. 3 Fig. 4 Fig. 5
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