Parts for your 1998 Daihatsu Gran move-Timing belt kit

1998 Daihatsu Gran Move timing-belt-kit — what it does and when to replace it

Based on the Daihatsu factory workshop manual for the Pyzar/Gran Move (late-’90s L6/L8 platforms) and major aftermarket catalogues from Gates and Dayco for the 1.5 HC‑EJ and 1.6 HD‑EP petrol engines, the 1998 Daihatsu Gran Move uses a toothed timing belt. That makes a timing‑belt‑kit absolutely relevant for routine servicing.

A timing‑belt‑kit bundles the belt with the tensioner and idler pulleys (and, depending on brand, front cam/crank seals and sometimes the water pump). On the Gran Move’s twin‑cam layout, the belt keeps the crankshaft and camshafts perfectly in sync so valves open and close exactly when the pistons arrive. If the belt loses teeth, slips or snaps, the engine will stop instantly and internal damage is a real risk. A matched kit avoids mixing old, tired bearings with a fresh belt and restores the whole drive to as‑new condition.

For Aussie and Kiwi conditions, a practical replacement interval is every 100,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first, even if the book figure suggests longer. Heat cycles, age hardening and oil mist from a weeping cam or crank seal can shorten belt life. Anyone hearing chirps or whirrs from the front of the engine, noticing timing scatter, rough idle or hard starting should bring forward the change. Always inspect for glazing, cracking, missing teeth and any brown dust around the covers.

While you’re in there, it’s smart to replace:

• Tensioner and idler pulleys (supplied in the kit)
• Camshaft and crankshaft front oil seals (if the kit includes them, or add them)
• Water pump if it’s driven behind the covers or shows any play or seepage
• Accessory/serpentine belts and the thermostat if age/condition suggests

Good shops will lock the cams, align the timing marks precisely, set the correct belt tension, and torque fasteners to spec. A quick coolant check (if the pump’s changed), road test and a fresh service sticker round it out. Using a quality kit from a recognised brand and confirming the engine code (HC‑EJ or HD‑EP) ensures the parts match your 1998 Gran Move. Keep the invoice and kilometre reading — the next owner will thank you, and you’ll have a clear reminder for the next change.

Popular questions

How often should the timing belt be changed on a 1998 Daihatsu Gran Move?
Most tech data and local experience point to 100,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first. In hotter or stop‑start use, earlier is safer. If there’s any belt noise, visible cracking, oil contamination or unknown history, don’t wait — book it in.

Should the water pump be replaced with the timing belt?
It’s recommended if the pump sits behind the timing covers or shows any play or seepage. Labour overlaps heavily, so doing it with the belt and pulleys saves money and avoids tearing it down twice if the pump starts leaking later.

How do you make sure the kit fits my Gran Move?
Match by VIN and engine code (commonly HC‑EJ 1.5L or HD‑EP 1.6L for 1998). Reputable catalogues from Gates or Dayco list the correct belt profile, tensioner and idlers for each engine variant, which a decent parts counter or mechanic can confirm before ordering.