Further question...I know this is a difficult job while the engine is in the car, but how much less difficult will it be while the engine is out? I have no experience in doing this so will be easy enough for me with the engine out or risky at best?

Oh, and why do we replace the water pump when doing the belts exactly?

Because it's a pain the arse to do at a later date with the engine / belts in place, whilst belts are off, do it.

Would have thought it's about 50% easier with the engine out. Half the battle seems to be space. There are a few guides of xpf of diy belt change.

What every you do, for gods sake! CHANGE THEM WITH THE ENGINE OUT!!!!!!!
Its sooooo much easier.
Its crazy not to if its already out.

I plan on doing it with the engine out, I was just guaging how difficult the job is got an amateur like me!

Do water pumps have a life expectancy?

Most if not all engines that get a timing belt replaced also get the water pump done too, it is purely for piece of mind, it is the same when doing any gearbox work, your better to replace the clutch unless it is already new, that is my opinion anyway.

Also as you have to change the gear box its only 8 or so bolts to take off the cover and check the clutch plate, and also check the release bearing. I'd renew, unless its only just been done, specially if it going to get a bit of a hammering on the track!!!!

Its all a trade off, you have done 95% of the work to change the water pump, they do fail and if you have to go back in, its like another belt change. Might be lucky and the old pump go on for ever, or!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Same as the clutch and thermostat.

Dont think I would fancy timeing up a V6, Could just about do the midget and MGB engines, do the V6's have belts at both end of the block???

I've seen the belts at the front but I have a feeling there are more belts at the back of the engine, driving the camshaft??? Or was that just a nasty dream??

If you can get George to give a hand, as he will have the locking tools and the experience, might be easier.

:wave::wave::wave:

Lol the list of things could be change are endless but this was a budget buy for cheap thrills. It would have been on the track this month had the engine not seized so I have no plans to replace clutch etc unless an issue arises.

Once the engine is in and working it will be on track

I've emailed Gary at UK signs asking about stickers, not had a reply yet, will chase him up or have a look down here.

Don't see the gearbox lasting long on track with the poop OE bearings in it, I know it's extra cost but you should go steel caged.

Saves future headaches