Service Procedure
PART I - BELT TENSION GAGEWhenever a timing belt is replaced on the subject engine, it must be adjusted when the engine is hot only (thermostat open).
Tension Specifications
^ Belt Tension With Engine Hot 150N
The timing belt tension gage, J-26486-A, was an essential tool included originally in the T1000 tool package which dealers received approximately March, 1981. This same tool was applied to the new 1.8L OHC L-4 (LH8) engine when it was released. Because of the importance of correct belt tensioning, it is imperative all dealers have a gage which is accurately calibrated.
PART II -TIMING BELT R&R PROCEDURE
Removal
1. Loosen generator pivot bolts.
2. Remove power steering belt (if equipped).
3. Remove two (2) upper timing cover bolts.
4. Disconnect canister purge hose and swing aside.
5. Hoist vehicle.
6. Remove right front wheel.
7. Remove inner splash shield.
8. Remove two (2) lower timing cover bolts, leave cover on.
9. Remove air conditioning belt (if equipped).
10. Remove crankshaft pulley.
11. Lower vehicle to just above floor.
12. Remove lower timing cover.
13. Remove coolant reservoir.
14. Remove probe holder.
15. Align timing mark on camshaft gear with mark on camshaft carrier.
Important: Do not turn camshaft. Use only crankshaft nut to turn. Turning the nut on the camshaft directly can damage the camshaft bearings.
16. Loosen water pump bolts and remove timing belt (with timing marks aligned).
Figure 1 - Adjusting Tool:
Figure 2 - Tensioning The Timing Belt:
Figure 3 - Timing Belt Tension Gauge:
Installation
1. Install new timing belt.
2. Adjust timing belt to specifications using tool J-26486-A. Tool J-33039 is used to adjust the water pump. It can be modified as shown in Figure 1. With gage (tool J-26486-A) installed (Figure 2), tension to within band (between two arrows on perimeter of dial face); identified by 1.8 OHC (see Figure 3).
^ Adjusting the tension with the gage installed on the belt will ensure an initial over-tensioning with the new belt.
3. Plug the canister purge hose and run engine above idle for at least three (3) minutes to obtain normal engine operating temperature (upper radiator hose hot).
^ As the new belt takes its set position, a substantial tension loss will occur.
4. After engine has been run, recheck tension with gage on belt to within prescribed band on gage.
^ If reset of tension is required, it is imperative that gage be removed from belt before the readjustment is performed.
^ If gage is left on belt during the reset of tension, the reading will be incorrect. In other words, the gage must not be installed during tensioning due to a possible over-tensioning effect.
^ The timing mark on the camshaft gear and carrier must be aligned during the final tension recheck or reset.
5. Tighten water pump bolts to 24 N-m.
6. Install probe holder.
7. Install timing cover and two upper bolts (not tightened).
8. Raise vehicle.
9. Install crankshaft pulley.
10. Install air conditioning belt (if equipped). Set belt tension to 350 N.
11. Install two (2) lower timing cover bolts and tighten.
12. Install inner splash shield.
13. Install right front wheel.
14. Lower vehicle.
15. Position and connect canister purge hose.
16. Install two (2) upper timing cover bolts.
17. Install power steering belt (if equipped). Set belt tension to 450 N minimum.
18. Tighten generator pivot bolts to 33 N-m.