Tensioning the Camshaft Belt

Fig 1: Camshaft Belt Routing

Courtesy of VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA.

NOTE: The variable valve timing units do not have a return spring and are easily dislodged when installing the timing belt. Check that the markings match.

Install the belt in the following order:

crankshaft
idler pulley
intake camshaft
exhaust camshaft
water pump
tensioner pulley.

Fig 1: Identifying Tensioning The Camshaft Belt

Courtesy of VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA.

This adjustment is done on a cold engine. A suitable temperature is approx. 20°C/68°F. At higher temperatures, for example when the engine is hot or in high ambient temperatures, the gauge needle is further to the right.

The position of the needle, when aligning the camshaft belt tensioner at different engine temperatures, as shown.

Carefully turn the crankshaft clockwise until the timing belt is tensioned. The belt must be in tension between the intake camshaft pulley, the idler pulley and the crankshaft.

Hold the belt tensioner center screw secure. Turn the belt tensioner eccentric clockwise until the tensioner indicator passes the marked position.

Then turn the eccentric back so that the indicator reaches the marked position in the center of the window.

Hold the eccentric secure and tighten the center screw. Tighten to 25 Nm .

Check that the indicator is in the correct position.