Timing Belt Service

Timing Belt Service

INSPECTION

NOTE: For manufacturer's recommended service interval, refer to the maintenance interval chart located in this manual.

The average replacement interval for a timing belt is approximately 60,000 miles (96,000 km). If, however, the timing belt is inspected earlier or more frequently than suggested, and shows signs of wear or defects, the belt should be replaced at that time.

WARNING
Never allow antifreeze, oil or solvents to come into contact with a timing belt. If this occurs, immediately wash the solution from the timing belt. Also, never excessively bend or twist the timing belt; this can damage the belt so that its lifetime is severely shortened.

Fig. 1: Never bend or twist a timing belt excessively, and do not allow solvents, antifreeze, gasoline, acid or oil to come into contact with the belt

Inspect both sides of the timing belt. Replace the belt with a new one if any of the following conditions exist:

Hardening of the rubber — back side is glossy without resilience and leaves no indentation when pressed with a fingernail
Cracks on the rubber backing
Cracks or peeling of the canvas backing
Cracks on rib root
Cracks on belt sides
Missing teeth or chunks of teeth
Abnormal wear of belt sides — the sides are normal if they are sharp, as if cut by a knife.

Fig. 2: Clean the timing belt before inspection so that imperfections or defects are easier to recognize

Fig. 3: Inspect the timing belt for damage, such as a broken or missing tooth, which may be due to a damaged pulley

Fig. 4: Back surface worn or cracked from a possible overheated engine or interference with the belt cover

Fig. 5: Side wear from improper installation or a defective pulley plate

Fig. 6: Worn teeth from excessive belt tension, camshaft or distributor not turning properly, or fluid leaking on the belt

If none of these conditions exist, the belt does not need replacement unless it is at the recommended interval. The belt MUST be replaced at the recommended interval.

WARNING
On interference engines, it is very important to replace the timing belt at the recommended intervals, otherwise expensive engine damage will likely result if the belt fails.