I'd like opinions please, on the best belt and pump kit out there, I'm looking at buying a kit soon and I want a good one.

Hello John, 

I’ve tended to stick with Gates, but ideally buying a genuine VAG. water pump. Some might suggest Dayco to good effect. 
You’ve now got other options, such as SKF ( once a very well respected manufacturer of bearings), and INA - also bearing manufacturers. 
Whichever you use, I would recommend you renew the auxiliary belt at the same time. 
Kind regards,

Gareth. 

Thanks very much Gareth, looking at the INA kits  they apparently make good stuff. SKF were my favourite choice last time I replaced the belt and pump, but it's looking like the pump has failed after only 4 years. I read that Gates are using Chinese bearings now, so that puts me off, that they are seeking cheaper manufacturers. Thanks again 👍

Huh.....speak of the devil, just googled where are INA parts made 😳 

I think it's the heater core, but to be 100% I've ordered a heater core bypass kit.....if everything circulates after fitting that, then it's the core and not the pump.

I THINK 🤔 

What belt kit did you choose or intend to choose John?

Kind regards,

Gareth.

Hi Gareth

I've bought a INA kit with water pump, and while I'm on I'm replacing the damper pulley just need to get cracking sometime. Regards john

On 10/20/2024 at 9:26 PM, johnymingle said:

I think it's the heater core, but to be 100% I've ordered a heater core bypass kit.....if everything circulates after fitting that, then it's the core and not the pump.

I am a little puzzled by this topic. Are you buying a new water pump & timing belt because the cabin heater is not working?

Don’t forget to renew the auxiliary belt John. I use Gates. 

3 hours ago, cliffcoggin said:

I am a little puzzled by this topic. Are you buying a new water pump & timing belt because the cabin heater is not working?

Ha ha, don't blame you  they've been crossed somehow......two separate posts of mine......Havnt done the belt yet but I hope it goes better than the heater matrix!! It was a right !Removed!.