Priora timing kit 16 valves gates how to spot a fake

Gates. How to distinguish an original from a fake?

PowerGrip® Kit Packaging
Both packages are so similar that just by looking at them it is difficult to determine which is the real Gates and which is the fake. Only upon careful examination can you notice that the Gates packaging box is made of thicker cardboard, and the quality of printing on it is higher than on a fake. There is even a hologram pasted on the box with the fake, and both holograms are very similar in appearance. However, the fake one is shorter than the real one by about 1 cm and flew off easily like an autumn leaf...

Package Contents

Open the box. Now you can clearly see how the original differs from a fake! Inside the original box there is a special plastic form for storing products. Fake rollers and belt are simply packed in plastic bags.

Belt

Let's compare the markings on the belts. On the original belt, the markings, as expected, are slightly cut off. And the belts themselves differ noticeably in appearance.

The back of the box has been completely changed - color, font size, layout.

Sides: Same changes as the top side of the box. The inscription is more compact, the Gates logo does not have an ellipse. The logo in the new version is placed on the left side.

Completely redesigned side

Now the boxes are glued, which ensures higher packaging reliability. In the old version, the box was sealed with the original sticker to prevent it from opening accidentally. In the new version this sticker is no longer needed.

Label: The final label layout has not yet been finalized, so there may be some differences in: • font size • logo size and clarity • improved depiction of the belt drive diagram, etc. • an installation instruction designation that will no longer be printed on the label if the kit is installed using the general instructions (the instructions are only printed if the kit is installed using the special instructions). These items will be approved soon. The label is clearer and contains new symbols. The production date code is now printed on the label - in our case the date code is 2524531B ​​for kit K015521. This code consists of the order number (252453), the last digit indicates the year (1), and the letter B stands for the month (“B” stands for the second month of the year = February).

New mileage sticker: • improved quality • modern design • silver backing

Gates, a leading manufacturer of belt drive systems, takes all possible measures to prevent or stop the sale of counterfeit timing belts under its name. In compliance with MAPP (Manufacturers Against Pirated Products) standards, Gates has decided to triple its efforts to help installers and retailers verify the authenticity of the Gates timing belts they purchase.

Since July 2015, Gates has assigned each package of PowerGrip® timing belts a unique code. The new labels allow you to verify this unique code in three (3) ways with a triple security marking that will help distinguish genuine Gates belts from counterfeits.

The belt packaging is printed with a unique 14-digit alphanumeric code that can be entered at gates.com/original to verify the authenticity of the product.

Alternatively, you can scan the QR code, which will help you understand whether the product you are looking at is fake or genuine. To do this, you need to install special applications on your smartphone or barcode scanner.

Last but not least, the PrioSpot® holographic sticker has been added to the range of anti-counterfeiting measures. This sticker is difficult to counterfeit because it includes several security features. Its appearance makes it easy to determine the authenticity of the product.

Counterfeit products harm the brand image and endanger the life of the end consumer. The physical risks associated with the use or installation of counterfeit parts can cause damage of the highest value.

The use of counterfeit auto parts threatens the safety of consumers because it can lead to injury to drivers, their passengers, and auto mechanics.

Counterfeit identification methods

Let's start by talking about the Gates timing belt - how to distinguish a fake.

This can be done using the following methods:

• inspection of packaging;
• via SMS;
• by the appearance of the product;
• electronic method;
• using the Original system.

Now it would be logical to talk about how to distinguish a fake Gates timing belt, based on one or another identification method.

Additionally, you can read about fakes of the following parts:

• TRW brake discs;
• MANN oil filter;
• Luk clutch;
• Mass air flow sensor Bosch, etc.

Next to the question of timing belts from Gates.

Features of belts

Modern Gates products are distinguished by high quality and affordable prices. 100 years ago the first timing belt was produced. Over the course of a century, Gates has mastered the production of belts not only for vehicles, but also fully supplies agricultural machinery with high-quality products. The company operates its own center for scientific research.

Developers and manufacturers have taken into account the conditions in which their products must operate:

• high speed mode;
• wide range of temperature fluctuations;
• exposure to oils.

The procedures for replacing the belt on different engines differ from each other. For technically difficult cases of belt replacement, Gates issues instructions; the presence of such instructions is indicated on the box with the belt.

The instructions themselves can be found on the company’s official website.

The manufacturer approaches the production process with strict demands regarding quality, strength and safety. Gates timing belts have the following characteristics:

• special ingredients are introduced into the raw materials to provide protection against various factors affecting product wear;
• glass fiber is used in a rubber shell;
• silent operation is ensured by tight adhesion of the teeth profile to the gears;
• There are spare parts and tool kits for organizing repair work;
• Product protection against counterfeiting is organized at a high level.

Electronic methods

Gates offers authentication using electronic solutions.

The 14-digit code must be entered into a special field on the manufacturer’s official website. Moreover, be careful about which letters are indicated. Can be regular or capital. Enter exactly as directed on the package. Otherwise the code will be perceived as incorrect.

In the second case, you need a scanner or a smartphone with a special program. This is Neoreader or Teclidentify. Next, the QR code is read through the smartphone camera, and the user receives an answer.

There are 3 possible scan responses:

In the latter case, additional verification will have to be carried out. But you can be 95% sure that the absence of code in the database is a sign of copying.

Holographic protection is the most serious. It is extremely difficult to fake.

Hologram sticker verification is performed using the following methods:

Gates takes the safety of its products very seriously. Therefore, there are fewer and fewer scammers who are trying to copy Gates timing belts.

Advantages and disadvantages

Thanks to the high quality of its products, Gates has ensured its steady popularity among buyers and users of timing belts. The list of advantages is huge:

• high wear resistance;
• The products fulfill the entire required warranty period with a reserve, and it is necessary to take into account special extreme operating conditions (aggressive environmental conditions, temperature intervals);
• the precise fit of the teeth and the properties of the material used provide conditions for quiet operation;
• The presence of glass fiber in the materials creates extreme tensile strength.

The biggest disadvantage is the strong desire of many manufacturers to counterfeit products and produce counterfeit products . But a hundred years of experience allows manufacturers to protect their goods from good quality, but still fake. Therefore, consumers receive not only Gates timing kits, but also other products of the required quality. Methods for protecting commercial products have been developed here.

Installation nuances

Replacing the timing belt on most cars requires different timing. If, for example, Renault Logan recommends changing the belt at 60 thousand km, then for many Volkswagens this period is 120 thousand km. Sometimes the manufacturer limits the service life to a time frame, which also makes sense. Therefore, Gates’ recommendations in this regard do not contradict car manufacturers. Even if a Gates reinforced timing belt with a large margin of safety is used, its maximum service life should not be checked.

In any case, replacing the timing belt is recommended as an assembly with its associated elements, that is, at a minimum, rollers and tensioners. Gates kits always come with replacement instructions. If you follow all the recommendations and have experience or skills, you can easily replace the timing belt.

Three main ways to distinguish an original from a fake

In order to protect the Gates timing belt from counterfeiting, the original was provided with distinctive packaging.

There are three main methods for checking the originality of Gates belts.

1. Checking the 14-digit alphanumeric product packaging codes. This package code looks like this: This code must be entered on the official website of the Company.
2. The company's products are protected by a QR code (for products manufactured after July 2015). This code allows you to check using the Mobile application on your smartphone. You need to scan the code in the TecIdentify app or Neoreader app.
3. The company also uses tesa PrioSpot® labels to protect its products. This protection is verified as follows: This code is unique for each package. Can't be repeated.
4. The label shimmers with rainbow colors, the moving digit repeats the last security digit. As you move the viewing angle, the last digit changes up and down.
5. Checking with a magnifying glass. You must ensure that the 10-digit code appears under the Gates logo. Its last 4 digits must correspond to the security code, as well as the last four digits of the letter code.

Original protection system

She appeared in 2015. A two-layer protective sticker began to be applied to the packaging.

This system has the following features:

• Alphanumeric characters are generated, and from 12 characters a code is formed, collected into an array;
• Each code is encrypted. It reflects information about the set of spare parts;
• A special two-layer sticker with this 12-digit code is applied to each package.

The top layer of the sticker must be removed. Below it is a combination of letters and numbers.

You can check the authenticity of the code in 3 ways:

• via the Internet on the official website;
• by calling the hotline, contacting the operator and dictating the code;
• via SMS to number 2420.

In response to SMS, not only information about authenticity or fake is received. They also add a hotline number. You can go there for any questions related to Gates products.

Product Variations

The company provides almost all variety of automobile brands and models with reliable products. To make it easier for customers to select belts, Gates offers the use of detailed catalogs developed by the company. Here it is easy and simple to select the necessary part. If the consumer wishes, you can find a worthy analogue of the product or purchase a set of special tools for performing installation work.

The company offers owners of passenger cars belts that are completely equivalent in quality to the original ones, equipped with rollers, as well as elements for sealing and other components related to the timing belt.

Complete set of timing belts

The drive system largely ensures the safety of the vehicle. The failure of one element of the system may well lead to the failure of other parts. Therefore, timely replacement of belts and all tensioning devices ensures the safety and flawless functioning of the entire propulsion system of the car. PowerGrip® Kit Plus are ideal for solving such problems. You can purchase special PowerGrip® Kit Plus with additional rings that serve to seal and drain oil or a water pump, making it possible to replace all critical timing drive mechanisms. The company produces and supplies original equipment with a high quality guarantee.

Box Contents

Having unpacked the box, we see that the belts and rollers are in a special plastic frame. The rollers for the Priora are in the packaging base, and the rollers for the VAZ-2112 are packed in cellophane.

People often say that the cord in the belt should not be visible on the original, but in fact this is not the case.

You need to understand how drive belts are made: the belt blank is installed on a round drum, and a special machine cuts the required width and the required number of these belts.

On this drum, the inscriptions are printed at full length, so when cutting the belt, the inscriptions may be cut off. But on a fake, the inscriptions are applied directly to the finished belt in two rows, and the inscription will not continue either up or down.

Pay attention to the quality of the inscriptions. On a fake, the print is uneven, as if drawn with a brush using a stencil. On the original it is clear, the edges are even.

By the way, read this article too: How to distinguish original ABRO sealant

Also, on the fake that I purchased, the word “do not crease” was written with gross spelling errors.

On the original belt there are numbers arranged in ascending order . If all the numbers are the same, then the belt is a fake.

In the videos, I did not notice any obvious differences between the original and the fake. But, as we have already understood, nothing good should be expected from a fake.

Analogs

The most popular company whose products are in high demand among customers is Gates. Similar products are supplied to retail chains from manufacturers Contitech and Dayco. A domestic manufacturer in Balakovo supplies car owners with belts at an average price. Bosch and Lemforder also produce similar products at an affordable price. You can learn more about analogues in this article.

High quality products that can be purchased at an affordable price are in demand and popular among drivers. This is consistent with Gates products.

Characteristics and Features

The Gates company was founded in 1911. In 1917, the V-belt was first produced. Since then, the company has been producing drive belts and hoses for cars. It is one of the largest suppliers of products for conveyors of auto manufacturers around the world, including AvtoVAZ. The quality of the products fully complies with the manufacturer's requirements for the original. The use of the latest technologies makes it possible to create new products with improved characteristics.

Reviews

Online, car owners exchange opinions, share experiences, and warn each other against all sorts of failures and mistakes. Gates belts have excellent reviews. Here are examples:

For Skoda Octavia Octavia tour 1.4 16 valves. I chose a Gates belt and also changed the Pump just in case. I have no regrets, I drove 20 thousand km after the replacement, the flight is normal.

I put Gates on myself and my friends, there were no problems. (Made in Belgium)

There is a high chance of running into a fake, so you should be responsible about where you buy it. I ordered from the online store. I took it - it turned out to be a fake (can be seen from the markings and hologram), the seller does not get in touch.

GATES belts: review, prices, articles

The range of Gates accessories is quite wide; repair kits are presented for most European and American car brands. The search for spare parts is carried out by car make, VIN code, catalog article.

This is interesting: Peugeot Partner cabin filter: where is it located, replacement

How to distinguish a fake from the original

When the market becomes saturated with various counterfeits, the manufacturer makes changes to the appearance of the packaging. The photo shows different types of packaging for real Gates products. If there is no black stripe on them, then it is obviously a fake. The numbers are 111x19, 111 is the number of teeth, 19 is the width.

Logo and lettering

Consider the Gates logo. On counterfeit packaging it is smaller, on the original it is larger. Also with the inscription. The font of the description text on the box: on the fake it is bold, the original is normal. On the side of the packaging of the original belt, the logo and the inscription are in one line, but on the fake the logo is at the top, the inscription is at the bottom. The designation is printed on the original numbers with spaces, the counterfeit ones are purely black.

Packaging, hologram and tag

The packaging with the original product is sealed, and a lot of glue is applied. On a counterfeit, the box opens easily, as it is weakly glued. Sometimes they even seal it with tape. The most important thing is the presence of a protective hologram. Each belt has its own pattern and is not repeated. The original packaging still has the paper tag. It is glued in the engine compartment so that when you change the belt, you record the mileage. You'll know when to change the belt next time.

Belts are always packed in red and black boxes made of thin cardboard, which in turn are placed 10 pieces per cardboard box. Dayco sells its empty packaging separately. This makes it possible to sell counterfeit low-quality spare parts under their brand.

External view of the Gates timing belt

Now let's look at the products themselves. The font on the original belt is bold. All products must indicate the place of origin. The inscription can be cut off, as on the top strap. There are no differences in the teeth.

On fake belts, the rubber on the outside quickly crumbles, and the inscription is never cut off. If you order and buy a product online, it happens that the site selects the wrong analogues. They only pay attention to the number of teeth and width; no one looks at the shape of the tooth. On Priora and Grant, the teeth are rounded, unlike the VAZ-2109. It is advisable not to confuse this, as the service life will be shorter.

Unique code for authentication

Since July 2015, Gates has included a unique code with each timing belt package. The new labels make it possible to verify a unique code in three ways, thanks to triple security markings. It will help distinguish original Gates belts from counterfeits.

Let's consider each method of protection against counterfeiting. A unique 14-digit alphanumeric code is printed on the belt packaging. It can be entered on the official website to confirm the authenticity of the product. Try this. Authentication works, a message should be displayed that everything is fine, the product is genuine. If the code contains capital letters, then you need to enter them that way.

What can the packaging tell you?

The first way to distinguish a timing belt from a fake is to study the packaging material.

Oddly enough, it is the packaging that often draws attention to potential signs of counterfeit products.

If the authenticity of the product is in doubt, do not rush to unpack the item. First look at the packaging.

The Chinese and other scammers copying Gates are gradually reaching a new level. The resemblance to the original is impressive. That's why Gates periodically changes its packaging design. Now there are more degrees of copy protection.

Choose parts packaged in new boxes. They have a black line as well as a control sticker.

• Original boxes have a black stripe. The text on it is white. The manufacturer's website is listed here. The fakes don't have this;
• There is a logo on the back of the original box. Only on the copy the logo is made larger than on the original belts. Plus there should be embossing;
• Check to see if it says PowerGrip. If not, then it's fake;
• On copies, the text is printed in bold. For real boxes it is normal;
• Genuine boxes are carefully and carefully sealed. The fakes are glued together crookedly and askew;
• The box includes a coupon. Serves to indicate the mileage when the belt was replaced. The ticket can be stuck in the engine compartment and monitor the mileage and condition of the belt. The coupon is often not included in copies;
• The original does not use tape. Bonding occurs using glue. And fakes connect the elements with standard tape. A clear sign of a copy;
• Check for the presence of a factory sticker with the company logo. Make sure the edges on the sticker are round. The fakes have rectangular edges.

The modern packaging of Gates belts has received additional protection. This is a QR code and a barcode. They are made wide. And the copies are usually narrow.

Check to see if there is a special tag. When you open it you can find a code for SMS.

Gates timing kit authentication

And again we raise the topic of fakes. This time we compare fake and real timing kits K015539 under the Gates .

Let's look at the differences found and, at the end, highlight those by which even an ordinary buyer can distinguish a fake from an original.

Package

This time, the packaging of the counterfeit Gates is copied from such an outdated version, replaced already in 2011, that the differences are obvious.

Try to buy Gates products in modern packaging - there is less chance of running into a fake.

So, the boxes are the same in length and width. However, it is noticeable that the box of the fake Gates is made of cheaper cardboard, which quickly became worn and dented in places. The difference in print quality is also visible - you can see this for yourself by clicking on the photo.

Differences in the front part in details:

1. The fake Gates has a raised logo - an outdated version.

2. The fake one has a white stripe separating the red and black background, the real Gates does not.

3. There is a round stamp on the box of the original Gates, but the fake one does not have one.

4. The drawing of a real Gates is made with more contrast and clarity.

The heights of the boxes are the same.

Differences on the side, on the long side:

1. The original box has a wide flap on the side, which is firmly glued .

The counterfeit product has an outdated version of the holographic sticker that holds the valve in place.

2. A real Gates flap is red and has the logo, name, and “open” markers printed on it to show where the box opens.

The fake one just has a black valve.

Differences are also visible on the right and left sides - and these are again differences between the new and old version.

However, here pay attention to the following: in the photo of the left side of the box you can see that the text of the fake Gates has moved very much , and in this very place of the box. Yes, of course, printing is a separate industry, and even the Gates company comes across boxes with a crooked pattern, but usually their discrepancies are not so noticeable and are visible on the entire box as a whole, and not on a separate part of it.

And this is what both boxes look like from the bottom.

1. Real Gates has text on a completely black background, which is much easier to read.

2. The original box has two slotted flap inserts on the sides, and not one, as on the counterfeit.

The most interesting thing, of course, is inside the box.

We open it and now we clearly see the differences between the fake and the original.

1. The box of a real Gates, as expected, contains a molded plastic insert in which the rollers and belt are placed.

The fake one does not have such an insert - pay attention to this: a plastic insert is required for Gates! Counterfeiters often miss this point.

2. Gates puts instructions in their boxes - you can see that the real kit has these instructions, and the mileage sticker is stuck on the folded instructions. A fake has neither one nor the other.

By the way, the Gates instructions are now a large sheet of paper, neatly folded so that all the edges are straight, end-to-end, nothing sticks out. The obligatory mileage sticker, familiar to Gates customers, is now affixed to the instructions. What the instructions look like when expanded, look at the photo:

Next we compare the contents.

Belt

If you compare the original and the fake, the shape of the belts is similar.

And the differences are as follows:

1. The real Gates belt is more elastic and soft . The photo shows that the real one was straightened out for photographing literally with one hand - despite the fact that it was folded in the box. The fake one could not be easily straightened - he tried to bend over again and take the position in which he lay in the box.

2. The surface of real Gates is more matte, loose, “rubbery” . The fake one has a shiny, hard, “ plastic ” surface.

Please note that both of these differences are the most common!

There are also noticeable differences in the quality of the markings made on the belts: on a real Gates the markings are uniform over the entire area blurred at the bottom . The blurring is especially noticeable on the R and on the words INSTALL ACCORDING .

Now let's move on to the videos

Roller T41101

Externally, the videos are similar, and it seems that they can’t do without a professional look. However, if you look closely, you can find a significant difference: the real Gates has markings on a green background in two places . Namely, in addition to the long digital code in large font, there is another code in small font . The fake one has only one code.

Roller T42041

On the other two rollers it’s the same: the real Gates has markings in two places , the fake one has markings in only one.

Here, also pay attention to the following: the marking fonts on the fake rollers T41101 and T42041 are clearly different , although they are from the same set! This does not happen with the original - the markings are always done in the same font for both videos.

The same is on the reverse side: the real Gates has markings in two places , while the fake Gates has markings in only one.

Let's summarize what to look for when purchasing Gates products

1. It is better to purchase products in new packaging - there is less chance of getting a counterfeit.

2. Inside the box there should be:

— molded transparent insert for laying the timing belt kit

— Gates proprietary instructions in the form of a neatly folded sheet

- mileage sticker (pasted on the instructions)

3. The belt should be elastic and more or less easy to straighten when taken out of the box. Its surface should be “ rubbery ” and not look like plastic.

4. The markings on the belt should be made evenly , without spreading or thickening - compare identical inscriptions to determine the uniformity of application.

5. the rollers on the green field must have a second marking in small print. Both videos must be labeled with the same type and size of font.

That's all. We hope that this note will allow you to distinguish a fake from a real Gates kit, and we can only add: buy Gates from official distributors!

How to check the timing belt

How to check the tension of the timing belt and prevent the negative consequences of a break if it is not so easy to get to? Compared to the accessory belt, the timing belt will not be easy to check because it is hidden under covers. Therefore, you will have to partially disassemble the motor. And this work is too difficult for many car enthusiasts. However, in some cases, you can check the part yourself.

Checking the timing belt installation is much easier than replacing a spare part. By looking at the part, you can understand what condition it is in. First of all, we remove the plastic screen of the engine, remove the protection that covers the pump, crankshaft and camshaft pulleys, the tension roller, and the timing belt. The protection is secured with three ten-point bolts, so we use a suitable socket to unscrew them.

Did you get to the timing belt to check it? Look for cracks, microdamages, scratches, or if the element has worn out. Check the inside and outside - everything should be in perfect condition. If there are abrasions, be sure to replace the part.

Is there any damage? We begin to check the timing belt tension. We turn the crankshaft one or two turns clockwise, then in the opposite direction.

After this, we try to forcefully turn the belt outward with its teeth in the area where the crankshaft and camshaft pulleys are located. Were you able to rotate the part ninety degrees? So it's fine. If you fail to do this, you will have to tighten or loosen the belt tension. To do this, adjust the position of the tension roller.

Every car owner can check the timing belt if he knows the specifics of this procedure. The base of the belt is made of cord (woven carbon threads). You will not be able to determine what condition they are in. And if the cord threads stick out, it means that the belt should have been replaced long ago. If you have a high-quality timing belt installed, then you don’t have to worry about the cord breaking. But it also happens that visually a part looks like new, but a break occurs. The reason is the poor quality of the material from which the cord is made.

The tension roller rarely breaks compared to the timing belt. But this rule applies only to high-quality spare parts. It is best to check not only the timing belt, but also the tension pulley. There should be no cracks, chips or other damage. Disconnect the tension roller, and then, holding the center of the part, rotate it. Does it rotate smoothly, does not jam, are there any suspicious sounds? This means the tension roller is working properly. We install it in place by carefully aligning and tensioning the timing belt.

Gates. How to distinguish an original from a fake?

PowerGrip® Kit Packaging

Both packages are so similar that just by looking at them it is difficult to determine which is the real Gates and which is the fake. Only upon careful examination can you notice that the Gates packaging box is made of thicker cardboard, and the quality of printing on it is higher than on a fake. There is even a hologram pasted on the box with the fake, and both holograms are very similar in appearance. However, the fake one is shorter than the real one by about 1 cm and flew off easily like an autumn leaf...

Package Contents

Open the box. Now you can clearly see how the original differs from a fake! Inside the original box there is a special plastic form for storing products. Fake rollers and belt are simply packed in plastic bags.

Belt

Let's compare the markings on the belts. On the original belt, the markings, as expected, are slightly cut off. And the belts themselves differ noticeably in appearance.

The back of the box has been completely changed - color, font size, layout.

Sides: Same changes as the top side of the box. The inscription is more compact, the Gates logo does not have an ellipse. The logo in the new version is placed on the left side.

Completely redesigned side

Now the boxes are glued, which ensures higher packaging reliability. In the old version, the box was sealed with the original sticker to prevent it from opening accidentally. In the new version this sticker is no longer needed.

Label: The final label layout has not yet been finalized, so there may be some differences in: • font size • logo size and clarity • improved depiction of the belt drive diagram, etc. • an installation instruction designation that will no longer be printed on the label if the kit is installed using the general instructions (the instructions are only printed if the kit is installed using the special instructions). These items will be approved soon. The label is clearer and contains new symbols. The production date code is now printed on the label - in our case the date code is 2524531B ​​for kit K015521. This code consists of the order number (252453), the last digit indicates the year (1), and the letter B stands for the month (“B” stands for the second month of the year = February).

New mileage sticker: • improved quality • modern design • silver backing

Gates, a leading manufacturer of belt drive systems, takes all possible measures to prevent or stop the sale of counterfeit timing belts under its name. In compliance with MAPP (Manufacturers Against Pirated Products) standards, Gates has decided to triple its efforts to help installers and retailers verify the authenticity of the Gates timing belts they purchase.

Since July 2015, Gates has assigned each package of PowerGrip® timing belts a unique code. The new labels allow you to verify this unique code in three (3) ways with a triple security marking that will help distinguish genuine Gates belts from counterfeits.

The belt packaging is printed with a unique 14-digit alphanumeric code that can be entered at gates.com/original to verify the authenticity of the product.

Alternatively, you can scan the QR code, which will help you understand whether the product you are looking at is fake or genuine. To do this, you need to install special applications on your smartphone or barcode scanner.

Last but not least, the PrioSpot® holographic sticker has been added to the range of anti-counterfeiting measures. This sticker is difficult to counterfeit because it includes several security features. Its appearance makes it easy to determine the authenticity of the product.

Counterfeit products harm the brand image and endanger the life of the end consumer. The physical risks associated with the use or installation of counterfeit parts can cause damage of the highest value.

The use of counterfeit auto parts threatens the safety of consumers because it can lead to injury to drivers, their passengers, and auto mechanics.

Checking the originality of the Gates timing belt via SMS

The level of security is constantly improving, and in 2022 one of the most popular and easiest verification methods is SMS verification. So, on the surface of the box with the Gates strap there is a protective sticker, if you peel it off you will see an alphanumeric code and a short phone number to which you need to send a message (it differs for different countries). The cost of SMS is equal to the price of a regular message within the tariff of your mobile operator. In response to this, you will receive a similar message with information regarding the authenticity of the belt being tested.

Gates timing belt - original or fake

Passenger car owners are often faced with the need to replace the timing belt. In such a situation, it is important to use the original belt, otherwise there is a risk of even bigger problems.

When choosing a replacement PowerGrip kit, it is important to know what the original Gates looks like. Only in this case will it be possible to detect a fake. First of all, carefully inspect the packaging. Original box made of thick cardboard with excellent printing quality. In a fake, you can easily notice the differences.

There is also a holographic sticker on the box of the fake kit, but they differ. For example, a fake hologram is one centimeter shorter and easily peels off.

The first photo is the original.

The first significant differences are visible in the contents of the box. Inside the original box there is a special plastic form in which the parts are neatly arranged. The fake has all the parts in plastic bags.

There is a special marking on the belt, and on the original it is slightly cut off (as it should be). The differences are also noticeable in the appearance of the belts.

On top is the original belt.

Having carefully examined the tension rollers, the differences become obvious. There is an engraving on the metal part of the roller, but the manufacturer of the counterfeit did not pay attention to this circumstance. There is engraving in some places, but the letters are not clear. The photo on the left is fake.

There is engraving on the reverse side, but not everywhere.

Externally, the counterfeit rim roller is almost identical to the original one, but when you turn it over, the differences are noticeable. There is a branded engraving on the head; the fake does not have it.

Having carefully examined the plastic elements, you can find differences here too. The photo shows that the original has specific markings, while the fake is smooth and clean.

Recently, PowerGripGates has been releasing belts in updated packaging. This affects not only kits for LADA cars, but also others. The main differences between the new packaging and the old one can be seen in the photo below.

The changes also affect the ways of sealing the box, labels and mileage stickers.

Since 2015, Gates has placed a unique code on each belt package. There are three ways to verify its authenticity. This is facilitated by triple security markings.

One such method of protection is a holographic sticker. The sticker has several security elements, making it very difficult to counterfeit. Only by the appearance of the hologram can one be convinced of the authenticity of the belts.

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Consequences of a broken timing belt

Are you going to check your timing belt installation? Do you know what its breakage can lead to? The scale of the consequences depends on the design of the motor: if the design of the power unit is simple, then there will not be much damage.

What happens when a belt breaks:

The timing belt should also be checked on diesel engines. After all, they are the ones who suffer the most from the rupture of this element. The diesel power unit is designed in such a way that the valves hardly move. If the timing belt breaks and the valves are at top dead center, the following will fail:

The average price for one valve (not taking into account additional expenses) is 1,000 rubles. You will probably have to change all 16 valves. Imagine how much money you will spend to repair the unit. Don't forget that you also need to buy:

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Video review of the original Gates timing kit and fakes

How to choose the right timing belt is a question that torments every car owner as soon as it’s time for maintenance.

Among the huge number of manufacturers of timing belts, we have identified several of the most popular brands of timing belts.

If for auxiliary attachment systems you can choose a simpler belt and no particular danger will occur, well, except that you will be left without a generator or without an air conditioner until the belt is replaced, then a broken timing belt promises considerable troubles from replacing at least damaged valves and guides to complete engine overhaul.

How to choose the right timing belt and where you shouldn’t overpay extra money, but in turn, what you shouldn’t save on.

Rules for choosing a timing belt, equipment

When replacing a belt, an installation kit is purchased, which includes a belt, rollers, tensioners and fasteners. The quality of all products in the set is guaranteed by the manufacturer. When purchasing separately, you are more likely to make a mistake.

You can't skimp on a belt. A break will be very expensive, but there will be no external signs of wear. You need to buy products from well-known companies from trusted sellers. The original is expensive, leading manufacturers supply the same thing, but in their own packaging, much cheaper, and they counterfeit any product, including the most expensive.

If the water pump (pump) is also driven from the same toothed belt, then it must be replaced in the kit. It does not always work out the double life of the drive, but the consequences will be the same.

What is a VIN number?

VIN code is a unique vehicle identification number. This marking includes 17 characters - numbers and Latin letters, with the exception of I, O, Q (due to the similarity with the numbers 1 and 0), and contains the following information:

1. Vehicle manufacturer (first 3 characters);
2. Data about the car itself (4-9 characters);
3. Manufacturer, year of manufacture, serial number of the car (unique 10-17 characters).

The identification number (VIN) is indicated in the documents for the car - in the vehicle passport and registration certificate. It can also be found on the body of the car itself.

Engine number by VIN code

To find out the engine model by VIN code, you need to pay attention to the second part of the number (6 unique descriptive characters). These numbers indicate:

• Body type;
• Engine type and model;
• Chassis data;
• Information about the vehicle cabin;
• Type of brake system;
• Series of cars and so on.

To obtain the information of interest about the engine type by VIN number, the number itself will need to be deciphered. This is difficult for a non-professional to do, since the markings do not have a generally accepted notation system. Each manufacturer has its own symbol system, and you will need a specialized reference book for a specific car brand and car model.

You can obtain the necessary data about the engine model in simpler ways: many online automotive services (for example, Autocode) will do the decoding for you. You need to enter your VIN into the online request form and receive a completed report. However, such checks are often paid, as are consultations at service stations and MREOs.

At the same time, online spare parts stores (for example, Exist.ru), which are interested in increasing the growth of component sales, offer VIN decoding for free, and are ready to immediately offer you a wide range of spare parts for the engine of your particular car model.

Help: to determine the engine type, you can contact a service station. For a fee you can get all the necessary information there.

Where to look for the VIN number?

Since there are no strict requirements for placing the VIN code on a car, it can be located in different places in different brands and models of cars (the manufacturer usually indicates these places in the documents for the car). Most often, the code is indicated under the hood near the windshield, and can also be located:

• at the junction of the dashboard and windshield on the driver's side;
• on the bottom of the pillar, behind the driver's seat (the marking is visible when the door is open);
• on the chassis;
• on the side members.

How to find out the timing belt release date and why you need to look at it

One of the key parameters when choosing a timing belt for a car is its production date. The shelf life of rubber directly depends on storage conditions. A product that is too old, stored for a long time in a compressed form or exposed to temperature changes becomes very fragile, cracks and breaks easily. Therefore, when purchasing, you need to pay attention to the timing belt release date.

The shelf life of timing belts ranges from 3 to 8 years , depending on the material and manufacturer (most often 6 years). Since the service life of the part ranges from 50 to 100 thousand km, which is equivalent to 2–5 years of driving for the average driver, there must be a reserve for age so that by the time of replacement the belt does not become expired.

It is not advisable to install timing belts older than 3 years if you drive a little, and if the parts are more than 5 years old, then it is not worth buying at all. A belt that has passed its expiration date breaks without reaching its intended mileage!

The table below will help you find out how original timing belts from popular manufacturers are marked, as well as determine the production date of the timing belt.

How to find out the production date of timing belts from different manufacturers

In addition to the expiration date of the timing belt, the date of its manufacture can also help in the fight against counterfeits. The year and month or week indicated on the part itself must match the date on the label. It can be printed either in full in standard format or in abbreviated format. For example, the year of manufacture of Gates belts is indicated on the packaging near the barcode, as the first digit in a 4-character combination. In code 7E22, the number 7 indicates 2022.

Signs of an original timing belt are usually the following:

How to distinguish fakes from original belts: video

• the year of manufacture on the belt itself must match the year on the label of the box (package);
• the serial numbers of the workpiece tracks are located on the belt in a column (for example, 2213, 2214, 2215, 2216);
• the numbers of the outermost conditional tracks of the workpiece can be cut off (often relevant for MItsuboshi);
• the size of the date marking font may differ between the original and the fake (found on Geitz belts);
• There is equal spacing between all lines with markings and logos;
• all inscriptions are printed with high quality, do not have unpainted areas, irregularities or loose contours;
• marking and date of manufacture correspond to those described in the table above;
• There is a hologram of the manufacturer, there may be a scratch code for online verification.

To buy a high-quality timing belt, it is not necessary to look for an original with a company logo. Original conveyor parts are supplied to automakers by third-party manufacturers such as Gates and Dayco. OEM parts are usually intended for dealer services, have unpretentious packaging (a minimum of colorful printing and branding), and are rarely available for sale. In addition, it is the original that is most often counterfeited.

When selecting a belt not according to the catalog, but focusing on its dimensions, remember that despite the same number of teeth and their pitch, the profile and height, as well as the material itself, may differ. Therefore, always look at the label before purchasing.