The press release states that on this VM engine the timing belt change interval is rated up to 140,000 km?

you're right. auto one supply the serpentine belt, oil filter and air filter, but not the timing belt. i bought mine years ago when i made up a full spares kit of belts and hoses and filters. the timing belt was genuine. i guess DBOR could give the source of the belt then.

We sell pretty much everything for the JK. We just havent been able to list everything on the website!

I'll give you a ring thank's Bill.

As you can see the price difference is pretty significant and now that we all know that its possible wihout special tools and / or black magic it could be an attraction for some to DIY.

Of course even if your using another mechanic or genuine Jeep service why let them charge you $450 for a belt you can supply for $120 ?

There's also the information value - if your in the middle of nowhere you can change a timing belt without Jeeps involvement - assuming your carying a spare.

mate did you have to take out the radiator and intercooler, or was there enough room to work without it? and was it thn just a case of removing a couple of pulleys and the timing cover , or was it more involved. i took a look under the bonnet and put it in the too hard basket, but obviously there is a way because you found it.

The radiator and intercooler etc etc all stay in place - you don't disturb any of the engines "sytems" or loose any oil / coolant

The washer bottle, electrical,and mechanical fans, the fan shroud, airbox, "fan belt" and harmonic damper need to come off to give you access to the two piece plastic timing cover.

YOu need to unplug the air mass sensor and temperature sensor on the airbox, the washer bottle pump and the electric fan ( which is buried in the shroud )

Once the shroud and fans are off there's actually heaps of space ( about the same as the standard petrol engined installation ) to work.

A mirror on a stick is usefull for viewing the alignment of the common rail high pressure pump and crank timing marks without too much head twisting - but not essential. I didn't use one, but would have if it was handy.