2. Locate the timing belt cover on the front of the engine. It is usually a black or gray plastic cover. Remove the cover.
3. Locate the timing marks on the engine. There should be two marks, one on the crankshaft pulley and one on the camshaft pulley. The marks should be aligned with each other.
4. If the marks are not aligned, you will need to adjust the timing belt. To do this, loosen the tensioner pulley and move the timing belt until the marks are aligned.
5. Once the marks are aligned, tighten the tensioner pulley.
6. Replace the timing belt cover.
7. Start the engine and check the timing. The engine should idle smoothly and without any knocking or pinging sounds.
Here are some additional tips for setting the timing on a 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier LS:
- Make sure that the engine is at Top Dead Center (TDC) before you begin. To do this, turn the crankshaft until the piston in the number one cylinder is at the top of its travel.
- Use a timing light to check the timing. A timing light will show you when the spark plug is firing in relation to the piston.
- If you are not comfortable setting the timing yourself, you can take your car to a mechanic.
