Here's a general overview of the process. This is NOT a complete guide, and should not be used as a substitute for a professional repair manual specific to your vehicle. You absolutely need a repair manual – Haynes and Chilton are popular options.
Before you begin:
* Gather your tools: You'll need specialized tools like a timing belt wrench, crankshaft pulley holder, and possibly a harmonic balancer puller. Consult your repair manual for the exact tools needed.
* Gather parts: Besides the timing belt, you'll likely need a new water pump, tensioner, and possibly idler pulleys. These often fail around the same time as the timing belt, and replacing them proactively prevents future problems.
* Consult a repair manual: This is crucial. The manual will provide detailed instructions specific to your vehicle, including torque specifications and component locations.
* Safety first: Disconnect the negative battery terminal before beginning any work.
General Steps (refer to your repair manual for precise details and diagrams):
1. Preparation: Drain the coolant. Remove the appropriate components to access the timing belt, this often includes the right front wheel, wheel well liner, and various covers and belts.
2. Locate Top Dead Center (TDC): Use the markings on the crankshaft pulley and the timing marks on the camshafts to ensure the engine is at the correct TDC position for cylinder #1. This is critical to proper timing belt installation. Your repair manual will detail how to do this accurately.
3. Remove the Old Timing Belt: Loosen the tensioner to release the belt's tension. Then remove the belt.
4. Inspect Components: Carefully inspect the water pump, tensioner, and idler pulleys for wear and tear. Replace any that show signs of damage or wear.
5. Install New Components: Install the new water pump, tensioner, and idler pulleys (if necessary), ensuring they are properly aligned and torqued to the specifications in your repair manual.
6. Install the New Timing Belt: Carefully route the new timing belt around the camshafts and crankshaft pulleys, ensuring it aligns with all the timing marks. Tighten the tensioner to the proper specification.
7. Reassembly: Reinstall all the removed components and belts, ensuring everything is properly aligned and torqued.
8. Refill and Check: Refill the coolant and check for leaks.
9. Start the Engine: Carefully start the engine and listen for any unusual noises. Check for leaks.
Important Considerations:
* Timing marks are crucial: Misalignment of the timing belt can cause serious engine damage.
* Torque specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts and nuts to the correct specifications.
* Professional help: If you're not comfortable performing this repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. The cost of a professional repair is far less than the cost of a damaged engine.
This is a simplified overview. Again, you MUST obtain a repair manual specific to your 1993 Dodge Intrepid 3.5L engine before attempting this repair. The steps and details are complex and vary slightly between years and models. Ignoring this advice could result in costly engine damage.
