Cam Belt Change

[Big Vern]

Hi folks,

A quick question. My S3 is probably due a cambelt change as im unsure when it was last done. I notice on some of the Lotus Specialist sites that the cost is upwards of £400. Is there any particular reason for this, i.e is it a particularly difficult job for a mechanic in the know? I was going to get my local garage to change mine (i have used them for years with no problems) but after seeing the prices im wondering now if it a specialist job. For all i know that could be how much is costs for all cam belt changes?

Please forgive my naivety if that is the case. Im not a mechanic so am unaware of the ease/difficulty of the task. Im just looking for some advice on where to go, if not to my garage. Im in Essex

Many Thanks in advance.

Brett 

[pete]

Where in Essex?

[Big Vern]

Leigh On Sea!

 

[Chillidoggy]

Have a word with Sparky first.

[Vanya]

It's not a difficult job if you take your time, although the S3 is probably a bit more of a pain in the ass compared to the later electronic injection 4 pots. You'll also need to borrow a Burroughs gauge to check tension.

I think the reason these jobs cost so much is that workshops are aware of the fear associated with changing a cam-belt and charge thereafter... 

With that said £400 is cheap cheap cheap! 

[Big Vern]

Ok thanks I'm not looking to do it myself it's out of my capabilities I was just wondering if my local garage would do. They are Toyota/Lexus specialists but do seem to know their stuff. Me thinks I shall give them a call. ?

[Bazza 907]

If you're not doing it yourself get somebody who is familiar with the cars to do it. I wouldn't risk a non Lotus specialist, it's not worth it 

[Vanya]

48 minutes ago, Bazza 907 said:

If you're not doing it yourself get somebody who is familiar with the cars to do it. I wouldn't risk a non Lotus specialist, it's not worth it 

This. 

[pete]

4 hours ago, Bazza 907 said:

If you're not doing it yourself get somebody who is familiar with the cars to do it. I wouldn't risk a non Lotus specialist, it's not worth it 

ABSOLUTELY

Barry Ely is near you in Maldon.Not sure what he is like these days though

[Big Vern]

Thanks folks, ive had a look at the Barry Ely website, it seems like my best choice and not too far away

 

[esprit22]

Do yourself a massive favor and speak to Gerald at GST Performance: 01638661144, ex Lotus man who know's his stuff!

[Big Vern]

Unfortunately, GST Performance are not taking any new clients on as they are fully booked for the next few months. In fairness they did say they could try and fit me in for a cambelt change. I will however try Barry Ely first and also Castle Sports Cars as they are both nearer to me.

[pete]

Perhaps you could pm this chap about Barry ely

[NigelM]

2 hours ago, pete said:

Perhaps you could pm this chap about Barry ely

Booked in wk comm 30th May, will let you know how it goes afterwards. He is pretty busy. I had to wait a few weeks before he could fit me in.

[Big Vern]

That'll be great, im in no rush so itll be good to hear how it all goes.

Thanks 

[Big Vern]

On 20 May 2016 at 22:06, NigelM said:

Booked in wk comm 30th May, will let you know how it goes afterwards. He is pretty busy. I had to wait a few weeks before he could fit me in.

Out of interest Nigel, how did the C service go, would you recommend them?

[NigelM]

It got a bit bigger as a new manifold was involved, which has turned into a new Alunox system. Still waiting for delivery of the Alunox so the service not done yet I'm afraid so can't comment. 

[Big Vern]

lol, one thing leads to another. That Alunox system looks awesome though.

[NigelM]

I'm on the "do it once and do it properly" route I hope. Time will tell. Engine going to come out to remove the manifold which is very well attached so while it's out I can check the tanks, replace the fuel lines, carb diaphragms etc to reduce the fire risk, clean the engine bay and the engine properly. Looking like a rather large C service now, but hopefully the finished result will be pretty good.

Oh, and decided to replace shocks and springs while we're at it, lowering to Essex ride height at the same time. Hopefully will go and handle almost like new by the time it's done.

[Big Vern]

Are you doing the work yourself now Nigel?

[molemot]

Esprits....they are definitely contagious....and you've got it bad, Nigel!!! Lots of fun ahead...