The PRO water pump kits for 1.6l and 2.0l TDI engines from the Volkswagen Group were added to the Continental range late last year. They have quickly gained favour with technicians as apart from the water pump, timing belt, tensioning pulley, idlers and other consumables, these also include the belt for the oil pump.

The power transmission specialist says this is a sensible move because the engines in question have a deserved reputation for their longevity. Because of the high mileage achieved during these vehicles’ lifetimes, therefore, a second timing belt change may well be necessary. If not already carried out, the oil pump belt should also be replaced at that stage and the new PRO kits mean that mechanics have all the parts immediately to hand for just such an eventuality.

Continental says if technicians want to play absolutely safe, the oil pump belt should always be replaced at the same time as the water pump because changing the timing belt is a really time-consuming repair. It is therefore more efficient and safer to replace such minor consumables at the same time, especially as they have already been removed.

The PRO kits range now features 42 such kits for the timing gear. “We are continually expanding the range and are very happy to receive suggestions from workshops as to which engine types and combinations would be particularly welcomed,” says Adrian Rothschild, head of product management EMEA in the Continental Power Transmission Group.