We had our 2004 2.5CRD Voyager timing belt changed at 60k miles (nov2008) as per the service requirements. (By a main dealer).

Since that service we have had a series of starter motor failures (on our third in 20k miles since the belt change).

The engine doesn't run as smooth as prior to the belt change, is more laboured. At shutdown it shudders to an abrupt stop, which i dont think it did before.

My concern and question is whether the belt has been changed leaving the timing out.

Q: Is that possible and how easy would it be to check the timing positions - ie can this been done with a very limited cover removal or even better non-intrusive measurement ?

Also, I wondered whether the starters are failing either because it pulls a higher current to start or is just being vibrated by a rougher engine.

Very frustratingly the main dealer has no answers or even suggestions. (to be fair they have not charged for 2 of the starters as less than 24mths since fitting), but one issue may be their concern of liability if the timing is out ?

Any help would be much appreciated.

 

Hi
starters would be covered under the 2 year parts warranty anyway.
starters hardly ever fail on these so this does surprise me a little.
timing can be checked with not too much effort with the locking pin (1 behind the alternator, 1 the opposite to that) and pin in the crank shaft.