Timing belt

[suprabran]

Is there a way to check the timing belt with out disassembly? I have a used motor from tiger Japanese. They say its a low mileage engine, but I know it has more than 50,000 on it. Is it critical to change a timing belt on a used engine, because it should have been changed with the power train intervals of its time am I right? ((and are there signs of a timing belt about to go?)) I am going to replace it, I don't have the money now. But by the end of summer it will be replaced. I just want to know if there is any way to tell if it will last 2 or 3 months.

[Jeeves]

In order to really check it out, you'd need to pull the two bolts outta the water neck assembly, then pull the (5 ?) bolts that old the front timing cover on. This'll allow you to get at the belt and check it. Low mileage doesn't mean much, assuming is a good way to get yourself into trouble.

[suprabran]

Thanks Jeeves, what do I need to look for? I know look for missing teeth, but how to check if any other problems?

[Jeeves]

You're looking for missing teeth, abnormal belt wear (e.g. threads showing), lots of cracks (I believe it's more than 6 per inch?).