Timing Belt: Service and Repair

REMOVAL

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Remove accessory drive belt.
3. Remove the timing belt cover.
4. Align the timing mark on the camshaft sprocket with the timing mark on the cylinder head.
5. Confirm that the timing mark on the crankshaft sprocket is aligned with the timing mark on the oil pump housing.
6. Loosen the belt tensioner attaching bolt.
7. Pry the tensioner away from the timing belt and tighten the attaching bolt.
8. Remove the spark plugs.
9. Remove the RH engine mount and raise the vehicle.
10. Remove the splash shield.
11. Remove the crankshaft damper.
12. Remove the timing belt.

Fig. 3 Aligning Timing Marks:

INSTALLATION

Note: Do not mix 1/2 round and trapazoidal belt tooth profiles. This can cause premature belt wear, also the belt is meant to run in a dry environment. For maximum belt life, no oil or belt dressing compound should be applied to the timing belt.


1. Install the timing belt over the sprockets in a counterclockwise direction starting at the crankshaft. Keep the belt span from the crankshaft to the camshaft tight while installing over the remaining sprocket.
2. Loosen the belt tensioner attaching bolt, allowing the tensioner to snap against the belt.

CAUTION: Do not rotate crankshaft with the spark plugs installed.

Note: Do not turn the engine counterclockwise to line up the timing marks. After rotation, recheck camshaft timing marks for alignment. This will verify that the belt has not skipped a tooth during rotation.

3. Rotate the crankshaft clockwise two complete revolutions (720 degrees)stopping at top dead center. This will allow the tensioner spring to load the timing belt.
4. Tighten the belt tensioner attaching bolt to 23-30 Nm (17-22 lb-ft).
5. Install the crankshaft damper.
6. Install the splash shield.
7. Lower the vehicle.
8. Install the RH engine mount.
9. Install the spark plugs.
10. Install the timing belt cover.
11. Install the accessory drive belt automatic tensioner.
12. Install the accessory drive belt.
13. Connect the negative battery cable.