Dear Scotty, I recently purchased a Continental drive belt online for my 2014 Honda Accord Ex with the 2.4L non-turbo engine.
When I received the belt I noticed the manufacture date on the belt was August of 2018. Should I return it since it's 27 months old or is it okay to use?
Thanks a bunch!
--Joe
@joe212
Try to return it, but good luck. When belts are made, materials called "plasticizers" are added to the rubber compound, which give the rubber better flexibility without cracking or splitting. The bad thing is, "plasticizers" degrade over time and usage , especially when exposed to UV radiation or Ozone (which happens when the packaging is been opened). It almost sounds like the seller sold you a previously returned or used belt.
Thank you, I have no reason to believe it was used, just old stock. The package was not vacuum sealed or anything like that. It looked like this:
I would return it it's a rubber product that's too old it will wear out too fast then
@scottykilmer
Thanks Scotty, I was leaning that way. Side note: I meant to add I called Continental and asked them about this. The rep told me the shelf life of their belts is 4-5 years with the caveat of "depending on how it was stored." Regardless, I will return it. Thank you for the time.
I work with plastics and rubbers many years, so that is my opinion(i make alot things from this materials):
It is no problem for this belt, if is stored in dark, clean and in normal temperature place. Just check it with fingers and eyes. If feels good, have no cracks if bend, then is good. These belts are made from very good materials. And that is just mine opinion.
@deathxxx123
Thank you for your input.