3200 or 4200

williamsmix

Member
Messages
545
A question about cam belts … This car that I’m looking at buying had the cam belt done about 600 miles ago, but that was 3 years ago. Now, I know the recommendation is that cam belts are done every 3 years regardless of use, but is that what people actually do in practice?
 

philw696

Member
Messages
25,119
It's rubber and perishable.
I have seen some shockers in my time and people have been lucky not needing new valves and a lot of work.
Minimal cost against the purchase price of the car.
 

williamsmix

Member
Messages
545
Indeed! I raised it with the seller and they said they’d get it done, but that wouldn’t be at a recognised independent. So, as the car has a book full of main dealer service stamps I’m thinking about negotiating a discount and getting it done immediately at a recognised independent.
 

dickygrace

www.richardgracecars.co.uk
Messages
7,309
Indeed! I raised it with the seller and they said they’d get it done, but that wouldn’t be at a recognised independent. So, as the car has a book full of main dealer service stamps I’m thinking about negotiating a discount and getting it done immediately at a recognised independent.
Very rare indeed to find a 3200 with a FMDSH.
 

allandwf

Member
Messages
10,958
It's not just the belt, the water pumps can seize , and I had a bearing almost fail on mine, caught just in time.
 

williamsmix

Member
Messages
545
Very rare indeed to find a 3200 with a FMDSH.
Yes, it's a very impressive record: 1 from Evans Halshaw, 1 from Maranello and 14 from Meridien Modena with 5 cam belt changes recorded. I think the next service and cam belt change (that is now due) ought to be done by someone with equivalent credibility so I can preserve this record. Fortunately I have a great choice on my doorstep: Emblem, Meridien, Sportsitalia and the Maserati Shed. What do you think a full service and cam belt change will set me back? It would be useful to have some idea for negotiations!
 

williamsmix

Member
Messages
545
I’m not sure if the OP found a car but I’ve two of the very best out there that will be listed next week. A mint manual late 3200 and a stunning manual AC.
Thanks for the heads up, I’ll look at those with interest. I actually have a deposit on a 3200 GTA that I’ll buy subject to a fault on the Speedo being sorted. Incidentally, I’m helping a friend to find a manual 4200 Spyder, so if you come across a good one then please let me know.