Checking timing belt

[the_guy]

I just bought a used '00 galant ES. No maintenance records are available at all (and no owners manual). Am concerned about 2 things
1) How do I know if timing belt needs replacement?
2) A bunch of stuff under the hood and the wheels look rusted. How do I find out if thats a problem?

Thanks to all in advance.

[gixermann]

Well as far as your timming belt goes., that is more so based on milage, If the milage is unreliable you can make a visual inspection. Looking for wear, cracking, glazing or a bleached look. Me personaly considering how cheap a belt is a Pre manitenace stage I say change it.. Wheels, rims etc look to your local junk yard.

I would also suggest buy 5 + feet of vaccum hose and make sure replace one at a time, Water hoses belts all tht you can get to yourself. Its those little things that saves you from being on the side of the road..Good Luck

[the_guy]

The car has 75k on it. What is the recommended period for timing belt replacement?

[gixermann]

Your at that point. Check with your local dealers service dept. But if I remember correctly its 72-75K

[JS567]

How hard is it to change the timing belt. I have a 2001 galant with 69000 miles and I want to do mine also?

[the_guy]

Depends on how "handy" you are. It is not easy. Plus there is no room for error. If you got anything wrong, you had it.