help me decide how old this timing belt is (pic)

[llll1l1ll]

Looks like it has some rust on it.

How long ago was the engine ran?

[2.5-12]

It should only take an hour and a half. How long does a motor swap or head rebuild take?

Nobody is going to be able to tell you how old it is from looking at it, either.

it takes considerably longer than that for me.

motor swap probably 4 hours, head rebuilt (not including time at the shop) probably 2 hours.

people have taken out old belts at various mileages, some might have an idea by comparing this to what they have personally seen in their old belts.

Looks REALLY old!

thank you, finally some feedback on the op question.

[E30Gus]

Looks REALLY old!

[nando]

It should only take an hour and a half. How long does a motor swap or head rebuild take?

Nobody is going to be able to tell you how old it is from looking at it, either.

[2.5-12]

normally I'd agree but this belt shows no signs of cracking and very little wear. the parts may only be $40 but it takes quite a long time to do and I'd like to avoid frivolous tasks whenever possible.

again, I'm just asking how old people think it is, not if I should replace it or not

[jlevie]

Unless you have proof of the age of the timing belt, replace it.

[nando]

if you don't know, replace it. a kit is only like $35-$45. a used motor is going to be $500, and a lot more work.

[2.5-12]

Hello all, I just bought another project car, its a 1990 E34 525i (I know this is an E30 forum) with a M20B25 and the Getrag 260.

the drivetrain seems tip top, makes a fair bit of valvetrain noise but they all do and this one was likely run on 30 weight oil like most neglected BMWs.

my question is: I was able to take a picture of the timing belt through the opening where there should be a plastic cap, how old/many miles do you guys think it has on it? looks pretty decent to me but I just have no idea. I would prefer not have to change 3 belts this spring.