Timing Belts And Sprockets: Removal

Loosen water pump pulley mounting bolts/nuts. Loosen 2 alternator mounting bolts and detach V-belt (except with A/C equipped models). Remove water pump pulley and pulley cover. Disconnect oil pressure switch. Remove dipstick and tube.
Remove crankshaft pulley using Flywheel Stopper (498277000) or Flex Plate Stopper (498497000). On Turbo models, remove the belt cover plate. See Fig 1 . On all models, remove left, right and front belt covers. See Fig 1 .

Fig 1: Engine & Timing Belt Front Cover Components
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Loosen tensioner mounting bolts on No. 1 cylinder 1/2 turn. With tensioner fully turned away from timing belt, tighten tensioner to hold in place. Mark rotating direction of timing belt and remove belt. See Fig 2 and Fig 3 .

Fig 2: 1.8L OHC Timing Belts & Engine Components

Fig 3: View of Timing Belt & Tensioner Components
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Loosen timing belt tensioner mounting bolts on No. 2 cylinder 1/2 turn. With tensioner fully away from timing belt, tighten tensioner to hold in place. Remove crankshaft sprocket. Mark rotating direction of timing belt and remove belt. See Fig 2 . Remove No. 2 crankshaft sprocket, camshaft sprockets and tensioners as necessary.