The GATES brand parts (also ROCKAUTO) have been discussed a few times relating to serpentine belt tensioners and maybe a few other things. In those I mentioned I don't use GATES brand parts anymore. With that said, I've attached 2 videos that deal with Gates parts for SUBARU engines and illustrate what can happen. It deals with Chinese parts in boxes labeled Japan origin and then in the second video where Gates additionally offers those same parts with an "N" suffix (indicating Japanese origin) for a slightly higher price. The first video is old (6 years) but serves as history preceding the second video which is 2 years old. The reader comments posted below the videos about early parts failure and resulting damage are worth noting also.
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This is why I use OEM Mazda parts as much as possible and carefully research other brands under consideration.
GATES Subaru Timing Kits: BUYER BEWARE!
A routine timing belt replacement on this 2010 Subaru Legacy turns into an investigation of why this Gates timing component kit TCK304 includes substandard p...
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Are Gates Subaru Timing Belt Kits Good? - Gates N Kit - OEM Japanese Parts?
AISIN OE Type Kit for EJ Turbo Cars TKF-004 - https://amzn.to/3ppeppHGates N Kit for EJ Turbo No WP TCK328N - https://amzn.to/3V08p7dGates N Kit for EJ Turbo...
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This is why I use OEM Mazda parts as much as possible and carefully research other brands under consideration.
