What is the function of the "Polyrib Belt" on the 991 Engine?

[RussellFunnell]

Can someone tell me exactly what the "Polyrib Belt" is and does in the 991 engine?

I refer you the extract from the 991 fixed cost serving below...

"Check condition, and adjust if required: fuel system, parking brake, clutch, steering gear, tie rod ends, axle joints, running gear, exhaust system, suspension, seat belts, throttle actuation and Polyrib belt"

 

[tscaptain]

Or even the function[]

Drives the alternator, water pump and air con compressor from the crankshaft pulley. A real problem if it snaps! My turbo was renewed at 6 years due wear.

 

[RussellFunnell]

Corrected [8|]

So this is what they also refer to as the Drive belt, correct?

 

[tscaptain]

Yep. Just call it a polyrib because it has, er, lots of ribs to guide around the pulleys which have corresponding grooves.

 

[RussellFunnell]

[font="comic sans ms,sans-serif"]So this is where it gets interesting, I have 2 OPC's that have both confirmed in emails to me that the 4 year major service they have quoted for is part of the fixed price service.[/font]

[font="comic sans ms,sans-serif"]Although both have quoted different rates for the fixed price service (one slightly higher and lower).[/font]

[font="comic sans ms,sans-serif"]Both have mentioned the Drive Belt Check at extra cost was recommended at 4 years (which is the major service remember) and yet the Major Service states the following[/font] (extract from the 911 (Type 991) Fixed price servicing PDF)...

Major service includes: All items in minor service as detailed plus: • Replacement of air cleaner element • Check condition, and adjust if required: fuel system, parking brake, clutch, steering gear, tie rod ends, axle joints, running gear, exhaust system, suspension, seat belts, throttle actuation and Polyrib belt All of the above items are included in the fixed pricing structure.*

[font="comic sans ms,sans-serif"]I have read the small print which gives the OPC's an opportunity to change anything at anytime see below...[/font]

Service timeline and additional work requirements vary according to model. For full details on your Porsche’s service requirements please contact the Service Department at your local Porsche Centre. Within a minor or major service additional parts or work may be required depending upon the age of the vehicle, mileage and wear and tear. Additional work is not included within the prices displayed, should it be required we will advise you of this prior to completing the work. Having your Porsche serviced by a Porsche Centre means you also have access to a courtesy car** or the option of a collection and delivery service.** For more information about the range of services available, please speak to a member of the Service Department at your local Porsche Centre. *Participating Centres only. Fixed price tariffs may be withdrawn or varied at any time. **Subject to availability.

[font="comic sans ms,sans-serif"]So am I missing something or am I correct in saying that the Drive Belt/Polyrib Belt does not need to be added as a recommended item at extra cost?[/font]

 

[BigCat]

I would interpret that to mean the drive belt is checked at the major service and adjusted if required but if it needs replacing that's an extra cost.

 

[RussellFunnell]

You'd think so but one OPC wrote "Drive Belt Check - £xx (This is due at 4 years or 40,000 miles, whichever you approach first.)"

another wrote "I can confirm the drive belt check is not included within the major service, this is an additional recommended item at 4 years old. The cost of the drive belt check is £xx, please let me know if you would like to add this to your booking and I will be happy to arrange that for you"

So despite it saying that the check is included in the Major service on the UK website the dealers are (in 2 cases anyway) wanting to charge to check it again to make doubly sure the belt s OK, and I assume charge me to change it if it needs replacing.

However, I have been in touch with my local OPC and they have agreed to check the drive belt at no extra cost - very nice of them

 

[RussellFunnell]

it sounds like a right old whinge to save just under £100, but it's not the money its the blinkin' principal and tbh this is the sort of malarkey you'd expect from a dodgey backstreet garage, not premium brand, so to say I'm disappointed at the moment is an understatement.

 

[tscaptain]

Never mind the website, what does it say in the maintenance book. Included or extra? Given that the belt does not come with a wear indicator, like brake pads, or level indicator like water or oil, it would be reasonable to suppose they check it at every service as a matter of course. A small amount of debris could cause premature failure.

To change tack slightly do you remember the days when they reckoned you could replace a snapped fan belt with a pair of tights to get you home? Not recommended on a 991........[]

 

[Lancerlot]

To change tack slightly do you remember the days when they reckoned you could replace a snapped fan belt with a pair of tights to get you home? Not recommended on a 991........[]

Yes, with a new girl friend and if else failed, it was always a great final ploy. Pity it's unavailable to young studs nowadays! []

 

[vitesse]

I always insisted tights were removed before we went out[]

 

[tscaptain]

Yours or hers, Colin?[]

 

[vitesse]

Well either really-could never cope with the l

way the feet jiggle around