Getting ready to change out my water pump on the 1995 Accord, and debating whether to get a Honda timing belt or a Gates from the local parts place?

Replaced many timing chains and such, always used the parts place, but was talking with a friend and he recommenced an original Honda replacement part in lieu of an 'after-market' one.

so any opinions or advice? Going to be replacing wheel studs, top end gaskets and such, so not wanting to skimp and save 10-15 dollars if there is a huge difference between the two since I will already have things torn down for a bit. Thanks for the advice and help.

 

I have only ever used Honda timing belts because it is such a critical component I don't want to risk it over a small amount of money.

Then again all of mine have been for performance applications so I intend on putting a little more strain on them than normal.

 

I have replaced several timing belts on Hondas. I have never used a Honda replacement belt, and I have never had one go bad, but that's like 5 belts total so YMMV.

 

OEM over aftermarket any day of the week.

 

Well, the key is knowing "who really made the belt/part/piece"....Honda assembles parts to make a car....they don't really make many of the pieces that make up the car. Your car was put together in Ohio, do you think they made all of the "pieces/parts" in Japan and shipped them over here to be put together.

Gates, but that is me. I'm a bit influenced as I've been to many of their plants and dist centers.....seen the lines making the pieces and seeing where and to whom they are being shipped.

Just my two cents.

 

I've used Gates timing belts (95 Integra & 92 Accord) with no problems. I think I also used Gates belts on VWs too but that was awhile ago.