I had a couple flat cam lobes at about 200K that made a real loud ticking sound.

If your mechanic says you need a new timing BELT, find a new mechanic. Definitely need new upper rails given the age and mileage, might possibly need a new timing chain...chain stretch needs to be checked.

__________________
Mike Tangas
'73 280SEL 4.5 (9/72)- RIP
Only 8,173 units built from 5/71 thru 11/72

'02 CLK320 Cabriolet - wifey's mid-life crisis

2012 VW Jetta Sportwagon TDI...at least its a diesel

Non illegitemae carborundum.