Timing Belt: Removal
NOTE:
It is not necessary to disconnect hoses to remove power steering pump and bracket assembly.
- Remove overflow tank. Remove undercover side panel. Remove accessory drive belts. See Figure. Remove intake manifold plenum. See INTAKE MANIFOLD . Remove upper alternator bracket. Remove intake manifold plenum stay. Disconnect alternator harness connector and alternator. Remove accessory drive belt tensioner pulley bracket and tensioner pulley. Remove lower alternator bracket.
- Remove front splash shield. Support engine and transaxle assembly to alleviate weight on mounts. Using crankshaft pulley holder, remove crankshaft pulley. Disconnect HO2S connector. See Figure. Remove engine mount bracket. Lubricate bolt reamers and slowly remove engine support bracket bolts. Sometimes engine support bracket bolts are heat seized. Remove engine support bracket. Remove power steering pump and bracket assembly. Using wire, suspend power steering pump and bracket assembly.
- Remove upper timing belt covers. Remove lower timing belt cover. Mark timing belt direction of rotation for installation reference. Rotate crankshaft clockwise to align both camshaft and crankshaft timing marks. See Figure. Loosen timing belt automatic tensioner bolt and remove timing belt. Remove tensioner pulley. Remove tensioner arm assembly and tensioner.
CAUTION:
DO NOT rotate crankshaft or camshaft with timing belt removed.
CAUTION:
Water or oil on timing belt shortens its lifespan drastically, so removed belt sprocket and tensioner must be free from oil or water. These parts should not be cleaned. If parts are seriously contaminated, replace parts. If there is oil or water on each part, check front case oil seals, camshaft seals and water pump for leaks.