timing belt

[jain]

how soon should i have my timing belt replaced on my 2002 sportage? the dealer says at 60,000 miles but a reputable mechanic says 100,000 miles. any advice?
thanks! jain

[LMP]

There are legions on Sportage forums who told about their ending up stranded in the middle of nowhere some time after jumping the 70,000 miles waypoint, often very shortly after. THere are probably some who went past 100,000 miles, but personnally, I will not take the risk. 60k is somewhat overkill, though.
Full kits are available on e-bay, including idler, tensioner, water pump.
set of instructions here: http://www.geocities.com/lmp4203/kia...TimingBelt.zip

[jain]

thanks for the reply, LMP.