Balance Shaft Belt – Inspection, Maintenance Intervals, Part Numbers

Overview

This guide covers the balance shaft belt for the Porsche 944 S2 with its 3.0L engine. The balance shaft belt helps reduce engine vibration, ensuring smooth operation. Proper maintenance is key to avoiding belt failure, which could disrupt engine balance and performance. Here, we’ll detail general info, maintenance intervals, and the specific parts needed for the S2 variant.

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Tools Required

• 10mm (3/8 inch) wrench
• 13mm wrench
• Torque wrench (capable of 20 Nm (15 ft-lbs))
• Belt tension gauge (or Porsche special tool if available)
• Socket set (metric sizes)

Part Numbers

• Balance Shaft Belt – 944 102 219 02
• Balance Belt Tensioner Roller – 944 102 025 07
• Balance Belt Roller – 944 102 277 06
• Balance Belt Gear Woodruff Key – N 012 708 2 (2 required)

1: Understand Maintenance Intervals

1. Know the recommended maintenance intervals for the Porsche 944 S2 (3.0L engine):• Every 15,000 miles (24,140 km): Inspect the balance shaft belt.• Every 30,000 miles (48,280 km): Inspect the belt again.• Every 45,000 miles (72,420 km): Inspect the belt once more.

   • Every 60,000 miles (96,560 km): Replace the balance shaft belt and inspect the rollers.

2. For cars with limited use, inspect the belt after 2 years if 15,000 miles (24,140 km) hasn’t been reached, then annually after that.

2: Inspect the Belt

3. Remove the necessary covers to access the balance shaft belt. Follow this link to ensure this step – Balance Shaft Belt Removal – of the process is followed accurately.
4. Check the belt for cracks, fraying, or signs of wear. If you see any damage, plan to replace it even if you’re under the mileage threshold.
5. Inspect the tension by gently pressing on the belt. It should feel firm but not overly tight—use a belt tension gauge if available.

3: Replace the Belt (if Needed)

6. Loosen the balance belt tensioner roller using a 13mm wrench.
7. Remove the old balance shaft belt (944 102 219 02).
8. Install the new balance shaft belt (944 102 219 02), ensuring proper alignment with the gears.
9. Replace the balance belt tensioner roller (944 102 025 07) and balance belt roller (944 102 277 06) if they show wear.
10. Tighten the tensioner roller bolts to 20 Nm (15 ft-lbs) using a torque wrench.
11. Ensure the balance belt gear woodruff keys (N 012 708 2) are seated correctly.

4: Tension the Belt

12. Adjust the tension on the new belt. Follow this link to ensure this step – Balance Shaft Belt Tensioning – of the process is followed accurately.
13. Double-check the tension with a gauge or by feel—too loose or too tight can cause vibration issues.

Post Procedure Checklist

• Check that the belt is properly tensioned and aligned.
• Spin the engine by hand (using a 13mm wrench on the crankshaft bolt) to ensure smooth movement.
• Listen for any unusual noises or resistance when turning the engine.
• Reinstall all covers and start the engine to confirm it runs smoothly with no excessive vibration.

Sources

• Clark’s Garage
• Pelican Parts
• Porsche 944 Workshop Manuals
• Youtube