My recently bought '97 NA 850 wagon has 127K and change according to Carfax and the working ODO. I'm just asking how involved is to remove the cover for the timing belt? The serpentine belt is new, just by looking at it. No records or stickers of timing belt replacement.

Please let me know.

Thanks

 

One 10 or 12 mm bolt on the side of the block. pull cover up and out.

 

Looking at a timing belt is not going to determine if it is ok or not. Sure if there was fraying or cracks maybe but I would not gamble. If in doubt, change it.