Woohoo, just successfully changed timing belt, very close call
 

Had my blob WRX for a week now and my own fault but when I got it I heard what sounded like a noisy alternator. Soon realised it was a worn idler. I really didin't think it would be linked to timing as its stamped in the book (by Subaru main dealer) as having a belt change at 30,000 (now on 54,000).

Anyway after asking around various local Subaru experts and reading up on the net I decided to tackle the job myself.

Bought a full timing belt kit from Import Car Parts which is luckily 10 mins away. This included Gates belt, 1 toothed pulley, 2 medium idlers, 1 small idler and a tensioner.

Started the job around 13:30 and chuffed to say I was pulling my car out of my unit at 18:30 with a new set of pulleys, tensioner and belt.

The old small pulley was completely shafted, sounded like it was full of grit and because it had been getting hot it was melting into the back of the belt, I'd say it was one enthusiastic drive away from snapping and a big rebuild.

I was surprised at how easy it was and the peace of mind is priceless.

Just goes to show that although the service book indicated a belt change it doesn't mean that the pulleys and tensioner have been done and if these go its as good as your belt snapping.

It takes 10 mins the whip the right hand cam cover off to inspect the belt and have a good listen, I would advise anyone in doubt of the cam belt to check it.

Will check mine this weekend

On my list this next week

Don't think mine would have lasted the weekend.

had similar problem, book stamped but job never done,noisy pulleys etc.

I've just got in from doing mine and my small idler was also shafted, felt crunchy when turning it and like yours it had got real hot, worst part of the job was getting the new water pump and gasket to go on right :)