91' Q45 should I replace the timing belt before it goes out?

[cpoage]

my car has 170,000 miles on it, should I replace the timing belt?

[maxnix]

What timing belt?

Verifying you have the metal backed guides is a must.

First, RTFSM

http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/Q45/

Then read all previous posts (including the links therein) by Q45tech.

You will learn how to extract the maximum value from your Q45 for the minimum outlay of cash and time.

Also, there is a search tutorial in the stickies above.

Honest.

[rhinoone]

What else needs to be fixed or replaced on the engine? Does it burn oil? Injectors good? Knock sensors & harness getting old? Valve cover gaskets need to be replaced?

170K is still many many miles, and if its getting weak, or needs a bunch of work, a low mileage replacement is a better choice. Hours to R&R an engine are about the same to just change the guides, depending on your skills.

If you have a mechanic R&R the engine, most mechanics can be trusted to do the swap correctly. I'm not so sure just any mechanic should be trusted with changing the guides.

With a replacement engine sitting on a an engine stand, its much easier to work on it, good time to check everything before installing it in your car.

If you do your own work, you can save $$$, but this is not a task for the beginner. Also nice to have some help. Finally, make sure you buy the correct year and model replacement engine.

[Kiven422]

Is that a question to ask??? Preventative maintenance my friend... its 100% worth it!

If you can do it by yourself--even better! While your there you might as well make sure all the tensioners are working properly