Timing Procedure - 3.5L

Fig 1: Camshaft Sprocket Identification

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CAUTION: The camshaft sprockets are not interchangeable from side to side. See Fig 1.

Place crankshaft sprocket to TDC mark on oil pump housing. See Fig 2. Install a dial indicator in number 1 cylinder to check TDC of piston. See Fig 7. Rotate crankshaft until piston is at exactly TDC. This is important for good engine performance. Install camshaft alignment Special Tools 6642 to rear of each cylinder head. See Fig 3.
Pre-load tensioner with a vise and install locking pin. See Fig 4. Install camshaft sprockets onto camshafts. Install NEW sprocket attaching bolts into place. The 255 mm (10") bolt is to be installed in left camshaft and 213 mm (8 3/8") bolt is to be installed into right camshaft. Do not tighten bolts.

Fig 2: Timing Belt Routing Diagram
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Fig 3: Camshaft Alignment Special Tools 6642
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Fig 4: Compressing Timing Belt Tensioner
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Fig 5: Camshaft Sprocket Timing Marks
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Fig 6: Timing Belt - Installation
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Fig 7: Dial Indicator Locating Piston At TDC
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Camshaft sprocket mark should be positioned between marks on cover. See Fig 5. at both sprockets. Install timing belt starting at crank shaft sprocket going in a counterclockwise direction. See Fig 6. Install belt around last sprocket. Maintain tension on belt as it is positioned around tensioner pulley. Each camshaft sprockets mark should still fall between cover marks.
While holding tensioner pulley against belt, install tensioner into housing and tighten to 28 N.m (250 INCH lbs.). When tensioner is in place pull retaining pin to allow tensioner to extend to pulley bracket.
With number 1 piston at TDC. See Fig 7. Hold camshaft sprocket hex with a 36 mm (1 7/16") wrench and tighten camshaft bolts to 102 N.m (75 ft. lbs.) plus a 90° turn for Right side and 115 N.m (85 ft. lbs.) plus a 90° turn for Left side. Remove dial indicator and install spark plug and tighten to 28 N.m (20 ft. lbs.).
Remove camshaft alignment special tools 6642 and install cam covers and O-rings. Tighten fasteners to 28 N.m (250 INCH lbs.). Install timing belt covers. Install crankshaft damper. See Figure. Install accessory drive belts. Install air conditioning condenser, radiator, and fan module. Evacuate and charge air conditioning system. Fill cooling system.