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From: akers@oliven.UUCP (Rob Akers)
Newsgroups: net.auto,net.consumers
Subject: Re: Escort/Lynx/EXP/LN7 Owners: Note
Message-ID: <452@oliven.UUCP>
Date: Mon, 25-Nov-85 13:37:19 EST
Article-I.D.: oliven.452
Posted: Mon Nov 25 13:37:19 1985
Date-Received: Wed, 27-Nov-85 22:17:10 EST
References: <865@terak.UUCP> <1665@cuae2.UUCP>
Distribution: na
Organization: Olivetti ATC; Cupertino, Ca
Lines: 28
Xref: dcdwest net.auto:6787 net.consumers:3663

> The owners manual for my 1982 LN7 states that the timing belt MUST BE
> replaced at 60,000 miles. The handy dandy service chart they sent me also
> notes the same. I talked to my local L-M mechanic and he said they have
> had cylinder head problems with some 1982 and 1983 models and that has
> lead to the early timing belt failures. Also, they have used four different
> spark plugs in the last 3 years for other assorted problems. Ford will
> pay for a good chunk of the cost of repair if the timing belt fails.
> He would not tell me how much, though. I have only 7,000 miles to go before
> 60,000. Does anyone know how much they charge to replace the timing belt?
> I can just feel the pain in my wallet already.
> 
> Chris Donahue
> AT&T Info. Sys.
> Application Engineering

*** Timing belt replacement at 60000 miles ***

My 1984 Mazda 626 also requires that the timing belt be replaced at 60000 miles
as part of the routine maintenance. I would definitely have it replaced.  On 
some cars, when the timing belt breaks the valves will collide with the pistons and severely damage the engine.  On the 626 this is not a problem because of thedesign of pistons and cylinder head.  I don't know if the LN7 has this problem
or not.  I think it used to happen on some Fiats.  I still have 35000 miles
to go before I have the dealer replace the belt.  It looks like a pretty
easy job on the 626 but I would guess they will probably charge around
$100 or so.  Your dealer could probably give you a better estimate for 
your car.  Good luck!

Rob Akers
Olivetti ATC