rickp101 wrote:

> Basically before I fork out all this cash is there any way I can tell
> myself if it actually needs doing. Both garages have mentioned that it
> is a big job as you have to remove this and that (I’m no car
> mechanic!) but basically they just said that it is making a noise and
> that is how they can tell it needs replacing.
>
> Can I check this noise for myself? What am I listening for and when?
> The 2nd garage said the engine needed to be cold for them to tell how
> long it makes a noise for.

The noise sounds something like this:

http://www.alfa156.net/tech/badvariator-alfa156-net.mp3

It sounds a bit like a diesel for a few secs after start up

Hope this helps
Tony