Timing Belt: Inspection

Check belt teeth for cracks, damage or oil contamination. Inspect all sprockets for damage. Check belt tensioner for signs of grease leakage or roughness in tensioner rotation. Replace components if damaged.

1. Check belt teeth for damage or oil contamination. Inspect belt for glossy, hardened or non-elastic surface. Ensure belt is not cracked, separated or showing canvas fiber.
2. Inspect all sprockets for damage. Check tensioner pulley and idler pulley for signs of grease leakage or roughness in rotation. Replace components if damaged.
3. Inspect automatic tensioner for leaks. Check end of rod of automatic tensioner for wear. Measure distance from end of the rod of the automatic tensioner to the automatic tensioner housing. Distance should be .47" (11.9 mm).
   NOTE: Note if plug at bottom of tensioner protrudes past tensioner housing, place a washer over plug to prevent plug from contacting vise when pushing rod into tensioner housing.
4. Retract rod into tensioner housing by placing tensioner assembly in a soft-faced vise. Close vise to push rod back into the automatic tensioner. Replace tensioner if rod can easily be retracted in the automatic tensioner.

Fig 1: 2.0L DOHC Timing Belt & Related Components

Courtesy of CHRYSLER MOTORS.

Check belt teeth for cracks, damage or oil contamination. Inspect all sprockets for damage. Check belt tensioner floor damage. Check belt tensioner for signs of grease leakage or roughness in tensioner rotation. Replace components if damaged.