Timing Belt Auto Tensioner - Testing

NO.: TSB-96-11-006

MODEL: 1992-96 Eclipse, Galant, Montero

SUBJECT:
TESTING THE TIMING BELT AUTO-TENSIONER

PURPOSE

This bulletin is issued as a reminder to perform a simple test on the timing belt auto-tensioner whenever replacing the timing belt. From this test, the technician can determine whether the auto-tensioner is OK or needs to be replaced. This applies only to the hydraulic auto-tensioner used on the 2.0L and 2.4L 4G6 engines and the 3.5L 6G74 engines.

AFFECTED MODELS

The following models are affected: 1992-1996 Eclipse 2.0L, 1992-1993 Galant 2.0L, 1994-1996 Galant 2.4L, and 1994-1996 Montero 3.5L.

TEST PROCEDURE

To test the auto-tensioner, follow the steps below.





1. Remove the auto-tensioner from the vehicle.

2. Press the auto-tensioner push rod squarely against a hard, solid object. Apply 40-45 pounds of force and observe the movement of the push rod.

NOTE:
You may want to push the push rod against a bathroom scale to make sure you are applying the right amount of force.

3. If the push rod moves 1mm or less, the auto-tensioner is OK and does not need to be replaced. If the push rod moves more than 1 mm when pushed with a force of 4045 pounds, then it must be replaced.

Follow service manual instructions for re-setting the auto-tensioner push rod and reinstalling the auto-tensioner when replacing a timing belt.