1st timing belt replacement, tips or tricks ?

[Daytonatunnel]

My belt tensioner is howling, have to replace it and might as well do the belt too. Any tips or tricks to doing this job ? Timing marks at recommended locations, or ?? Thanks !!

[mrzw70]

Number one cyl. at TDC on the compression stroke, your crank pulley on the zero degee timing mark; then you can begin disassembly. Either drain about half of the coolant or have a very good swivel , there is a bolt for the cover right behind the thermostat housing that is tricky to get to. You might remove your fan to make a little more room, although you don't absolutely have to. I put paint marks on all the pullies so I would be able to tell if they moved any, you don't want them to. The belt replacement isn't too bad as long as you keep your pullies from moving and make sure your marks are the same after the replacement as they were before. If you don't have a manual now would be the time get one as well. Best of luck.
Mitchel.

[Daytonatunnel]

Got it, thanks !!!!

[brownsvo]

Best thing you can do for yourself is understand how everything works together. the string method is mentioned alot on this forum so search it and you may even find the diagram with red all over it.
#1 it involves placing a string from the cam sprocket, aligning the pointer on the string, and ending at the Aux shaft/oil pump/pulley. This step only ensures the cam is in the same ballpark
#2 placing the distributor right before #1 is another step,
#3 and finally determining TDC

[subpay]

I would also recommended replacing the cam oil seal, Napa part # 17107. I replaced my worn out belt and tensioner, the tighter belt made the fwd cam seal leak and spin oil all over the engine bay!