Timing Belt - Squeal or Whine After Cold Start

Article No.
94-16-12

08/10/94

^ ENGINE - 1.8L DOHC - "SQUEAL" OR "WHINE" NOISE FROM TIMING BELT TENSIONER AFTER COLD START - VEHICLES BUILT BEFORE 1/1/94

^ NOISE - "SQUEAL" OR "WHINE" FROM TIMING BELT TENSIONER AFTER COLD START - VEHICLES WITH 1.8L DOHC ENGINE BUILT BEFORE 1/1/94

FORD:
1991-94 ESCORT

LINCOLN-MERCURY:
1991-94 TRACER

ISSUE:
A "squeal" or "whine" noise may be heard around the timing belt after a cold start. This is caused by a decrease in the clearance of the tensioner bearing when cold conditions exist or tightening of the tensioner bolt.

ACTION:
Replace the timing belt tensioner with a revised, more rigid assembly. The bottom thickness of the tensioner has been increased from 5 mm to 8 mm to increase rigidity and the radial clearance of the tensioner bearing has also been increased. Refer to the following procedure for service details.

1. Verify the noise concern.

2. If a "squeal" or "whine" is heard, install a revised timing belt tensioner (F1CZ-6K254-A). Refer to the appropriate Escort/Tracer Service Manual, Section 03-03A, for the removal and installation procedures.

NOTE:
IT IS NOT NECESSARY TO REPLACE THE IDLER PULLEY.

PART NUMBER PART NAME CLASS

F1CZ-6K254-A Timing Belt Tensioner CG

OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: NONE
WARRANTY STATUS:
Eligible Under The Provisions Of Bumper To Bumper Warranty Coverage For 1992-94 Models, Basic Warranty Coverage For 1991 Models

OPERATION DESCRIPTION TIME
941612A Replace Timing Belt 1.3 Hrs.
Tensioner

DEALER CODING
BASIC PART NO. CONDITION CODE
6K254 55

OASIS CODES: 497000, 702000