Do you have to be dead on with timing belt alignment?

Do you have to be dead on with timing belt alignment?

Because modern vehicles use so many electronics to control the engine with things such as crank and camshaft timing sensors, technicians need to be, as we say in the industry, “dead-on” with the timing belt alignment. The cam gear cannot be off by even a tooth, or the engine will set a DTC.

Why do you need to lock down the timing belt?

Even though belts will not last as long as a chain, they are quieter and often easier to line up correctly with the cam and crank locked down. Anytime the belt is removed, the cam and crank need to be aligned to TDC No.1, which is where the marks on the crankshaft pulley line up with the pointer on the front cover.

Can a camshaft be turned without a belt?

However, both camshafts need to be lined up with the timing marks as well as the crankshaft turned to TDC before you install the belt to keep everything lined up correctly. My belt guide also shows this not to be an interference engine, so the cam shafts and crankshafts can be turned independently without causing damage.

When to set the cams on a crankshaft?

I would suggest at this point in time that you start with the crankshaft at 30° before top dead center and set the cams. At this point, there will be plenty of clearance for valve in every cylinder. When the cams are in position, then rotate the crankshaft to TDC and install the belt.

How do you lock down the timing belt?

Some manufacturers make a slot on the back side of the cam or a hole on the top of a cam bearing cap to slide in a punch, screwdriver or flat piece of steel through the back to lock down the cams after everything has been lined up at TDC No.1.

How often do timing belts need to be replaced?

While timing belts have been steadily getting replaced by chains due to their longer service life, belt manufacturers have made strides to improve their belt life to more than 100,000 miles, in some cases. Even though belts will not last as long as a chain, they are quieter and often easier to line up correctly with the cam and crank locked down.

What can cause a tripped cam sensor code?

The most common cause of a tripped cam sensor code, according to a belt manufacturer, is the misalignment between the rear cam gear and timing belt. A DTC can be triggered with the cam gear being one tooth advanced or retarded.

How to replace the timing belt on a Volvo V70?

Locate the idler pulley, remove the two 13mm fasteners (green arrows) and remove the idler pulley from the engine. Install a new idler pulley and tighten the fasteners. Then install the new timing belt tensioner. Leave the tensioner loose so it will rotate but is tight to the engine.

How are the legs on a timing tool?

The legs on the tool,on each side, has a key way that sticks out. This aligns with the slots on the cams. The adapters have both, the key way and the slots. When using the adapters, you’ll notice that the slots on them are a bit off center. Fit them one way on the tool, they’ll sit a bit off, not being straight in line with the tool.