Tension The Timing Belt

Fig 1: Identifying Needle Position At Varying Temperatures

Courtesy of VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA.

This adjustment is carried out on a cold engine. A suitable temperature is approximately 20°C/68°F. 

At higher temperatures (with the engine at operating temperature or a high outside temperature for example) the indicator is further to the right.

The illustration shows the needle position when adjusting the timing belt tensioner at different engine temperatures.

Fig 2: Belt Between Intake Camshaft Pulley, Idler Pulley And Crankshaft

Courtesy of VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA.

Tension the timing belt as follows 

• Carefully turn the crankshaft clockwise until the timing belt is tensioned.

  The belt must be tensioned between the intake camshaft pulley, the idler pulley and the crankshaft

• Hold the belt tensioner center screw secure. Turn the belt tensioner eccentric counter 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 20 Nm  .

Check that the indicator is in the correct position.