- Socket set
- Wrench set
- Pliers
- Timing belt locking tool
- Torque wrench
- Timing belt tensioner tool
Parts Needed:
- New timing belt
- New water pump (optional)
- New thermostat (optional)
- New serpentine belt (optional)
- Coolant (optional)
Instructions:
1. Park your car in a safe location and turn off the engine. Allow the engine to cool down completely before beginning work.
2. Remove the serpentine belt. Loosen the serpentine belt tensioner and remove the belt from the pulleys.
3. Remove the timing belt cover. Locate the timing belt cover and remove the bolts that hold it in place. Remove the cover to expose the timing belt.
4. Align the timing marks. Use the timing belt locking tool to align the timing marks on the camshaft and crankshaft. This step ensures that the timing is correct when the new belt is installed.
5. Remove the old timing belt. Loosen the timing belt tensioner and remove the old belt from the pulleys. Be careful not to drop the timing belt into the engine.
6. Install the new timing belt. Start by installing the new belt on the crankshaft pulley. Then, work your way around the pulleys in a clockwise direction, installing the belt on the water pump, camshaft pulley, and tensioner pulley.
7. Tension the timing belt. Use the timing belt tensioner tool to tension the belt to the proper specification. Refer to your vehicle's service manual for the correct tension specification.
8. Reinstall the timing belt cover. Reinstall the timing belt cover and tighten the bolts to hold it in place.
9. Reinstall the serpentine belt. Reinstall the serpentine belt and tighten the tensioner to the proper specification.
10. Fill the coolant system with new coolant (if necessary).
11. Start the engine and check for proper operation. Run the engine for a few minutes to check for any leaks or unusual noises. Confirm the timing of the engine using the timing light or scan tool. Verify the timing belt is properly tensioned and the engine runs smoothly.
Tips:
- If you are uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, you can take your car to a qualified mechanic.
- It is important to replace the timing belt at the recommended intervals to prevent engine damage.
- If you are replacing the water pump or thermostat, now is a good time to do so since you will already have the timing belt cover removed.
