Timing belt basic questions

[rseth12312]

Hi all,
Just simple questions as I dont know much about cars. My Integ LS 98 is due for timing belt replacement. Its about 74 K miles now, but I think its time I get it done so that I dont worry about timing belt breaking down.
1) The whole timing belt package w/ water pump and other belts cost around 650 bucks w/ all factory parts. Is it worth going for it versus going for aftermarket parts (actually goodyear timing belt; mechanic says they use it on ford) package that costs around $450.
Could somebody tell me the spec for factory parts for timing belt package? I tried finding it on acura.com owner's web site but with no success.

2) Exactly what all parts need to be replaced? One mechanic long ago wrote down the following.
a) timing belt
b) water pump
c) alternator belt
d) a/c belt
e) valve cover gasket ?
f) P/S belt?

What is this P/s belt and are really valve cover gasket and P/s belt required?

If its any use, I got 60K mile mainitenance done at 69K mileage on my car (just 5K miles earlier). They did not replace any drive belts or valve cover gasket then.

I'd appreciate any responses/help. Thanks!

Ron

[travagliante]

Go with the OEM parts, may cost more, but its oem.
You can get aftermarket belts at like NAPA, Carquest, Autozone, Pep Boys, or whatever you have by you!
Def go OEM on timing belt and water pump. Valve cover should be fine, unless its tore when taking valve cover off, or if its leaking.

[K2sInteg98]

of course oem parts are better, but you can use aftermarket parts if you wanted to. You have some time to think about it because changing these parts isnt something you do until you get close to 90k miles.

[Ace$nyper]

OEM unless your running higher revs *past oem redline* then I've heard that greddy is nice.

[rseth12312]

HI all,
Just came to know that some people recommend replacing even

- the tensioner
- idler pullys
- thermostat


How important are these?

Any comments?

[rseth12312]

Well,
Came across more...

- oil pump seal / oil pump O-ring?