New 147 - what are the gotcha's with timing belts.

[mikz]

Through various forums on Alfa's I keep seeing the problem of timing belts keep raising it's ugly head. They definitely appear to be a problem and seemingly the only sure cure is replacement at correct intervals. Correct me if I'm wrong ... but the resultant damage from a broken belt is unimaginable. Seems also their history is a major factor in the poor resale value of Alfas.

Mick

[Scott Farquharson]

Not sure if this is a major factor in resale as most people don't even know about this.  Also I'm not sure that resale on 156/147's is that bad, in fact I believe they are on par with 3 series Beemers.

Cam belt changes should be made every 60k min.  Damage is loss of 16 valves and possibly the whole head. Upwards of $4k.  Change the belt and the rest of the motor is pretty good.

[mikz]

So enlighten me  ... as I am buying a diesel does it still incorporate a timing belt or am I scott free  ?