Timing Belt: Testing and Inspection

INSPECTION OF TIMING BELT COMPONENTS





1. Inspect timing belt.

NOTICE:
- Do not bend twist or turn the timing belt inside out.
- Do not allow the timing belt to come into contact with oil, water or steam.
- Do not utilize timing belt tension when installing or removing the mounting bolt of the camshaft timing pulley.





If there are any defects as shown in the illustration, check the following points:
(a) Premature parting.
- Check for proper installation.
- Check the timing cover gasket for damage and proper installation.





(b) If the belt teeth are cracked or damaged, check to see if either camshaft is locked.





(c) If there is noticeable wear or cracks on the belt face, check to see if there are nicks on the side of the idler pulley lock and water pump.





(d) If there is wear or damage on only one side of the belt, check the belt guide and the alignment of each pulley.





(e) If there is noticeable wear on the belt teeth, check timing cover for damage and check for correct gasket installation and for foreign material on the pulley teeth. If necessary, replace the timing belt.

2. Inspect idler pulleys.





Check the turning smoothness of the idler pulley. If necessary, replace the idler pulley.

3. Inspect timing belt tensioner.





(a) Visually check tensioner for oil leakage.

HINT: If there is only a small trace of oil on the seal of the push rod, the tensioner is all right. If leakage is found, replace the tensioner.





(b) Hold the tensioner with both hands and push the push rod strongly against the floor or wall to check that it doesn't move. If the push rod moves, replace the tensioner.





(c) Measure the protrusion of the rod from the housing end.

Protusion: 10.5-11.5 mm (0.413-0.453 in.).

If the protrusion is not as specified, replace the tensioner.