cambelt use by date

[s2driveruk]

I bought a cambelt for my 3b a couple of years back and due to time pressure never got round to fitting it. Having dug it out, i notice there appears to be some kind of use by date (12/2008) on the packaging.

In theory, is it now scrap? Its airtight (vac sealed) but I wouldn't want to risk any problems for the sake of £30 to be honest.

Thoughts?

David

[Nuvo]

The one you have in storage is probably fine but what if...
Personally I would fit a new one to for complete peace of mind if nothing else.

[s2driveruk]

yep agreed, will order one today - cheers

[GazzaG60]

coffee too has a use by date that can be changed on request.

they are guidlines.

id check the belt and use it if good. i used to use £2.50 belts on my corrado. never broke or skipped.

but for 30 quid. not like its a 100 quid subaru one.

[s2driveruk]

yeah i know but it in theory expired on Dec 2008 which is a fair amount of time....in theory its fine, sealed/airtight, been stored in the garage in the dry and dark BUT...sod's law and all that

[Jamo]

I agree get a new one, I'm sure the rubber in belts degrades which is why they have to be changed by a set mileage or 4 year period which ever comes 1st.

[s2driveruk]

current one has been in there since 2004 luckily mileage has been pretty low in that time but even so its weeeeeeeeeeell overdue and it isn't heading to Le Mans and der Ring without a new one thats for sure!

[GazzaG60]

oil contamination has a lot to do with it but its best to just get new.

[s2driveruk]

ordered from gsf along with a new receiver drier so i can get the a/c working nicely again....thanks guys