I was told by a mechanic(had it in the shop to get my tires changed) that I need a new timing belt. Did this guy have x-ray vision or what? I just want to make sure I am not getting the shaft. How difficult is it to change the timing belt? Thanks in advance. John

 

very easy, just have to crank on the pully that is sprung and tensions the belt with a 15mm wrench and it'll come right off. Did it yesterday to replace my idler pully.

 

He is talking about the timing belt not the drivebelt

 

my bad, read it too fast

 

If it is anything like a 92' 2.3L then it isn't a hard job if you can turn a wrench. The hardest part is getting the big crank pulley nut off to get the harmonic balancer off. After that its a matter of making sure the timing marks are lined up perfect, and pulling old off and installing new and making sure the belt is properly tensioned.

Biggest thing to look out for is timing marks. They have to be set TDC on both crank and cam. If you're off a tooth, it wont run properly. And before you start it, crank it by hand a good 4 full revolutions and check the timing again.

 

Hey guys I want to thank you for the information. Sounds like its not too bad. Think I will buy a book so I have something to look at. Thanks again John

 

If you have a book it will help you a lot, just make sure you take your time doing it. First time around you will be nervous about doing it, but I've done several timing belts to this day and I don't think much of it.

 

I will definitely take my time. I will look for a repair book for my 97 2.3 that has some pics of the job step by step. Thanks again. John