Good evening everyone, I realize that this isn't the 'correct' forum as I am just a lowly 89 Mondial t owner but due to the mechanical similarities of the vehicles I decided I would get the most info here. The vehicle has 18k on it and had a belt service done 2000 miles but 5 years ago. Needless to say I am about to do another major service and as such have been reading as much as I can about other things that should be done while the engine is out. On the list are T/Belt, tensioners, valve cover gaskets, cam seals, water pump rebuild, valve adjustment (inspect clearances at a minimum) and repack the flywheel (has a hot start issue and rattles on shutdown when hot) and change all of the fluids. My real concern is what else should be done? I have read about an update to the area behind the cam seals and the oil pump drive tensioner issue is kinda scary, as are the cam drive bearing failures in the front cover. Should I be concerned at this low a mileage? In any event your input would be most appreciated. Thanks Jamie
Hi Jamie, you may be better off to post this in the "Technical Q & A" section....I am assuming you already have this in the "308/328/Mondial section". cheers
Hi Jamie, since your engine is basically the same as our 348's, I have some suggestions, based on the major I did on my 348. For peace of mind, I'd plan to replace all hoses, and belts, although on the 348, the alternator and A/C belts are not that hard to change with the engine in the car. On the 348, there's a small coolant hose from under the intake that connects to the bottom of the overflow tank. The fitting under the intake has been found to corrode and fail. Ricambi has a better replacement, so if your T has the same configuration, check that out. Also, I'd plan to check the oil pump and timing chains/bearings/tensioners each major. These tensioners have been upgraded over the years, and this areas seems to be subject to wear and failure, so checking bearings and replacing the tensioners during each major is a good plan. You might also want to rebuild your alternator during the major. Do a search for 348 alternator repairs, and there's a great thread by Ernie covering the repair. Good luck with the major!
In addition to Rick's comprehensive list I would also contact Dave Helms (davehelms) and get his precious metal connector kit for the ECU wiring loom. It solved a bunch of problems for me including hot start issues and a bank cutting out every once in a while, and would be a breeze to install with the engine out. Some of the gearbox experts on here might want to chime in on what to inspect in that area - seems to me it would be an excellent opportunity to remove the covers and make sure the bearings are good, ring nuts staked properly, etc.
