Timing Belt: Questions & Opinions

Hello.

Today, I visually inspected the timing belt after replacing it, and I noticed some areas where it appears to be "stitched" together.

There are some seams that are open, but I doubt those small threads will hold anything at all.

I've replaced several timing belts on PD engines before, but I've never noticed that issue.

My question is:

Does anyone know about this?
Is it concerning?
What is your opinion?

Timing belt changed approximately 90,000 km ago, using an original VAG kit including pulleys. I installed it myself.

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In my opinion, it looks absolutely brand new. These fibers on the side are from the cutting of the strap, and many of the straps I've sold have had the same thing.

I would be concerned if the shoulder seams started to pull or bunch up, and if there was any fraying.


But get some additional expert opinions here as well, which is absolutely fine.

Thank you, Octavia_4x4.

Ich vergass noch zu sagen. ZR Breite gemessen exakt 30mm. Okay, then.

Best regards, Charly.

Hmm... that's a bit strange. We should compare it to the same part from a new one to see if there are any differences.
I also believe that the gear ratio is appropriate in terms of power transmission.
The seams might just be a temporary way to hold the belt in place before the actual baking process that bonds it together.

Hi,
I had never seen anything this extreme before, but I had encountered a similar example with the same effect on the inside (after about 10,000 km). I didn't take any risks.
I would return the belt and try to get a flawless replacement. Otherwise, it's just 80 euros and wasted time.
Sure, here is the translation of the text from German to English:

"vg" translates to "very good" in English.
Herbert.

Hello,

charlyfirpo wrote:

Today, I visually inspected the timing belt, which had just been replaced, and noticed that it has some areas where it appears to be "stitched" together. There are some seams that are open, but I doubt those small threads will hold anything at all.

I recently bought a belt kit on eBay and wanted to return it immediately when I saw this seam (manufacturer: Dayco). However, I did some research beforehand, and apparently, that's a reputable manufacturer... Then I took a closer look at the belt and came to the same conclusion as you and Red32, namely that the threads are insignificant for its operation. In any case, I will install the belt.

Best regards, Uli.