Newb Question: oops.gif (and I did search)

I just had my car in the shop because the fuel pressure regulator went out and it would not start. Well, they did a free inspection and told me that I need new belts and wanted to charge me $375 for all new belts and install.

I can do the belts, easily, but where I am concerned is the timing belt. I heard that there are a few precautions that you have to take to not mess up the timing. I have asked around and no one seems to know how to do this without taking it to a mechanic.

Does anyone have any information on changing the timing belt? I will check my Chilton's manual tonight, but I am pretty sure it will tell me to take the car to a dealership (at least that is what they say for my 96 Jetta when it comes to anything to do with the electrical or ignition system).

I have access to a timing gun if that helps.

 

Have a look on webtech, it should have the info you need.
The hardest part I found when doing the timing belt was taking the bottom pulley off b/c the bolt was soooooo tight.

 

You'll need an impact wrench to get it off OR you can wedge a breaker bar and blip the engine really quick.

 

Impact wrenches are pretty cheap and if you already have a compressor you would be good to go. It is a little safer than doing it that way. The other issue you have to worry about is how you are going to torque that bolt back down correctly.

 

I torqued mine down the way the dealer does, with the rattle gun wink.gif

 

I took mine off with the breaker bar and blip the engine trick.. just make sure you unhook the spark plugs so the car does not start....

Torquing them back down was with a clicking torque wrench and my foot.