I'm planning on replacing the timing belt next month. I have the 2.5 cylinder. Anything out of the ordinary to look out for? Any hints to make it easier?

Thanks,

 

I have not changed one of those befor But I would start by putting number one on top dead center. should not be that hard to dissassemble the front of the motor and put it back together.

 

Just say no Mike.

It's a true pain in the butt. On the 2.3 (which I believe is the same motor as the 2.5... just different heads, right?), I pretty much pulled everything from the front of the motor. Fan, shroud, radiator... etc... biggest pain was actually getting the harmonic balancer off. There is a left-hand bolt that holds is on... the problem is, there is nothing that you can really do to stop the crank from spinning as you torque on it... I had to put it in gear, wrap a leather belt around it and have somebody underneath the truck trying to help hold it.

Well, good luck. If you need a hand, I'm more than happy to assist, but I'll warn you, this is no 30 minute job by any means.



STan

 

I'm thinking with all the stuff to do around the house, I might have to farm that job out. I don't even have time to do anything with the Thunderbird. There is an independent shop here in Owasso, that seems fair and honest. I'm going to call him Monday and see what the cost will be.