Timing Belt & Sprockets: Installation

Install spacer (1.6L), flange and crankshaft sprocket (if removed). See Fig 1 . Install camshaft sprocket and tighten retaining bolt (if removed). If not previously done, align camshaft and crankshaft sprocket timing marks with No. 1 piston at TDC on compression stroke. See Fig 4 .

Fig 1: Mounting Timing Belt Flange & Sprocket
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
Mount belt tensioner, spring and spacer (if removed). Temporarily tighten bolt. Position spring against tensioner first, then against case and tighten bolt. See Fig 2 and Fig 5 . Position and secure tensioner toward water pump.

Fig 2: Installing Timing Belt Tensioner
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
If old belt is being reused, install lining up mark place upon belt at time of removal. Install timing belt on crankshaft sprocket first and then, while keeping tension on tension side of belt, set on camshaft sprocket. Ensure tension side is tight and timing marks are aligned when pressure is applied to turn camshaft in reverse direction.
Align dowel and install temporarily install crankshaft pulley. Loosen tensioner spring bolt and then slotted tensioner bolt. This will give the timing belt only spring tension. Ensure tensioner and belt are properly positioned. With only spring tension applied to belt, tighten slotted tensioner bolt first and tensioner spring bolt last.
Slowly turn crankshaft one revolution clockwise and realign crankshaft sprocket timing mark at TDC. Do not push or shake belt while turning. DO NOT turn crankshaft in counterclockwise direction.
Loosen tensioner spring bolt first, then slotted tensioner bolt. Then retighten tensioner bolts by tightening slotted tensioner bolt first and tensioner spring bolt last.
On 1.5L engine, check belt tension by pushing tension side of timing belt across from tensioner inward horizontally, using about 11 lbs. (5 kg) force. Timing belt tooth end should be approximately 1/4 of tensioner mounting bolt head width (across flats) away from bolt head center. See Fig 3 .

Fig 3: Checking Timing Belt Tension on 1.5L Engine
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.

Fig 4: Timing Belt Train Components & Timing Marks
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Fig 5: Installing Timing Belt Tensioner on 1.6L Engine
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
On 1.6L engine, check tensioner adjustment by holding center of tension side of belt and seal line of inner cover between thumb and forefinger. Apply light pressure. See Fig 6 . Clearance should be .23" (6.0 mm). Readjust if necessary. Remove crankshaft pulley and install timing belt upper and lower front covers. Install crankshaft pulley and tighten.

Fig 6: Checking Timing Belt Tension on 1.6L Engine

Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.