Removal

Camshaft Drive Belt & Cover:

- The camshaft drive belt and its related parts are shown in the image above. Although no maintenance interval is specified, periodic inspection of the belt, and replacement at 60,000 to 75,000 miles (96,000 to 120,000 km), or every 4 to 5 years is recommended.
- Removal of the belt is the best way to perform a thorough inspection.

TO REMOVE AND INSPECT CAMSHAFT DRIVE BELT:
1. Remove the socket-head shouldered nut securing the upper camshaft drive belt cover, and remove the cover.
2. Loosen the coolant pump pulley bolts, and remove the V-belts. Remove the coolant pump pulley.

Crankshaft Timing Marks On Vibration Damper & Lower Drive Belt Cover:

3. Using a socket wrench on the crankshaft vibration damper bolt, rotate the engine by hand to set the No.1 cylinder at Top Dead Center (TDC).

NOTE: Check the position of the distributor rotor or the flywheel ignition timing marks to confirm cylinder No.1 TDC. The vibration damper mark alone could indicate TDC for cylinder No.1 or No.4.

4. Rotate the crankshaft again 1 3/4 revolutions (about 1/4 turn before No. 1 cylinder TDC). Then remove the vibration damper from the crankshaft.

4. Remove the two nuts and bolt that hold the lower camshaft drive belt cover to the coolant pump and to the front of the engine. Remove the lower cover.
5. Loosen the camshaft drive belt tensioner locknut. Turn the tensioner counterclockwise so that the tension is removed from the drive belt. Then remove the drive belt by working it off the sprockets.

CAUTION: Rotating the crankshaft or the camshaft with the drive belt removed may cause interference which can damage pistons and valves.

6. Inspect the tensioner bearing and the belt. Spin the bearing to check that it runs smoothly. Inspect the drive belt for any visible damage such as stretch, exposed threads, missing teeth, or any other visible damage. A damaged belt or worn tensioner should be replaced.

NOTE: Failure of the sealed tensioner bearing is a possibility. On a high-mileage engine, consider replacing the tensioner when replacing the belt.