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These instructions are intended for individuals with beginner to novice automotive mechanical experience (i.e. knowing how to replace drive belts, etc...)and have an appropriate set of tools. If you enjoy a sense of satisfaction from doing a job well done by yourself while saving a considerable amount of money, then this is the right "How To" for you. Please note these instructions do not apply for vehicles equipped with dual overhead cam head engines.
Steps
- 1Disconnect negative terminal of the battery.
- 2Loosen right front (RF) wheel nuts (See Warning (a))
- 3Raise and support (RF) corner of vehicle with Jack and safety stands.
- 4Remove underbody splash guard. Place wooden block on Jack and support engine underneath engine oil pan.(This will also provide clearance for access for removal of other engine components) Remove top right engine mount.
- 5Remove drive belt, belt tensioner, and crankshaft pulley bolt.(See tip (A))
- 6Remove timing belt cover.
- 7Loosen the timing belt tensioner bolt. (Use an 8mm or appropriate size Allen wrench to turn tensioner counter-clockwise one 1/4 turn. Insert a 1/8" drill bit into hole to keep the tensioner away from the timing belt and remove the belt.(See warning (b))
- 8To remove the timing belt tensioner, release it back to its original position. Remove the belt tensioner bolt and finally the timing belt tensioner.(See tip (B)and warning (c))
- 9Install the new timing belt tensioner.
- 10Install new timing belt. Begin by mounting timing belt in an anti-clockwise direction beginning at the crankshaft. Try to remove any possible slack between crankshaft and camshaft when positioning around opposite side of camshaft sprocket.
- 11Release timing belt tensioner to place tension back against timing belt.
- 12Rotate engine for two full revolutions to make sure the timing marks are aligned.
- 13Install timing belt cover, crankshaft pulley, and drive belt tensioner.
- 14Install drive belt and adjust the height of the engine and position to enable installation of the engine mount. Remove the jack support.
- 15Replace RF underbody splash shield and install RF wheel.
- 16Lower vehicle to ground, tighten wheel nuts, and reconnect battery.(See warning (d))
- 17Start engine and inspect for proper operation. If everything works fine then give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done.
Tips
- Take pictures of engine and components before moving on to the next step.
- Check with your local Ford dealer or Autoparts store to see if they can provide you with a diagram of the timing belt and cover assembly.
- Follow vehicle manufacturer's recommended safety procedures.
- A- Remove crankshaft pulley bolt using an impact wrench)
- B- Compare the new timing belt and tensioner with the ones off the vehicle before installing to ensure they are the correct size and fit.
Warnings
- a- Lift and support vehicle according to vehicle manufacturer's recommended procedures.(check with the owner or shop manual)
- b- The timing marks on both the camshaft sprocket and crankshaft pulley must be aligned at the top dead center position (TDC) before removal and installation of the timing belt.(see fig.1)
- c- Be sure to follow any aftermarket part manufacturer's instructions for installing the new timing belt tensioner.
- d- Be sure area in and around vehicle and engine compartment is clear and free of hazards.
Things You'll Need
- Automotive floor jack and safety stands
- Small wooden block (approx 2"X4"X3" long)
- Impact wrench (electric or pneumatic)
- Set of 1/2", 3/8", 1/4" drive metric deep and shallow sockets
- Complete set of metric wrenches (including small sizes and stubby wrenches, 8mm and up)
- Set of metric allen wrenches
Article provided by wikihow the wikihow manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Replace a 1997 Ford Escort ( 2.0L and1.9L) Timing Belt and Tensioner Replacement. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.
