How can I check my timing belt alignment?
Knowing which way the engine turns is important for checking the new belt’s alignment later; you don’t want to be off by a tooth on one of the sprockets. The easiest way is to have a helper bump over the starter motor with the ignition key while you watch the engine. Of course, now you’ll have to reset your timing marks by hand.
What happens if you take the timing belt off an engine?
Warning: If you know you’re working on an interference engine, do not rotate the camshaft or the crankshaft independently while the timing belt is off the engine. You could cause the pistons to hit the valves, or vice versa, and cause the same damage as if the timing belt had snapped with the engine running — bent valves!
Where is the timing belt on a transverse 4 cylinder engine?
On most transverse four-cylinder engines, you’ll have to remove the passenger-side motor mount in order to gain access to the timing belt. This means the entire powertrain needs to be supported in that area while you’re working. And finally, getting to the lower portion of multipiece timing belt covers usually requires underbody access.
What does the timing belt do on an OHC engine?
The timing belt (or chain) is the sole component that keeps the camshaft (make that camshafts on a DOHC or V-type OHC engine) and crankshaft in sync.
What kind of chain is a timing belt made of?
A timing belt is a toothed belt made of high-quality rubber; it runs outside of the engine, covered by a protective cover. A timing chain is made of metal, similar to a bicycle chain.
How do you know if the timing chain is worn?
Chain guides and silencers are used to keep the timing chain from vibrating. All these components wear too. How do you know if the timing chain is worn? Often, if the timing chain is worn, the engine may feel sluggish, low on power or have trouble starting. The Check Engine light might come on too.
What’s the best way to change a timing belt?
The important thing is to make sure that your timing belt is as tight as it should be. Drive out the crankshaft seal with a hammer and punch. This is the rubber seal around the crankshaft and the timing cover. Tap the new crankshaft seal into the timing cover. The seal should be seated into the correct place on the timing cover.
What’s the best way to remove a timing chain?
Put the bolt partially back in the bolt hole and use a harmonic balancer removal tool. The tool should not be a jaw type tool, but instead should apply all of the removal force to the center of the assembly. This protects the rubber ring in the harmonic balancer. Remove the timing chain cover.