Timing Belt Parts

[nfpgasmask]

I think Merlin does have all these parts. The list adds up fast. I think for everything above (that list sounds about right) it was close to $600.

I will be doing this in the spring as well.

Bart

[ScottinMA]

Bart,

Appreciate the info. I'm planning on a spring makeover as well.

I think Merlin does have all these parts. The list adds up fast. I think for everything above (that list sounds about right) it was close to $600.

I will be doing this in the spring as well.

Bart

[nfpgasmask]

So, going back to this again, I am planning to order up my parts from Merlin soon.

So, now, the question is, to do myself or not to do myself?

How many of you out there have tackled the timing belt change and associated part swaps/maintenance?

I am not afraid of taking my VX down for a week or so, because we have 2 cars now, so that is not a huge problem, but I am more so wondering if this is simply to involved to handle in my own garage. I know the entire front end has to be taken apart, but what about any special tools/etc?

Thanks- Bart

[tom4bren]

Bart,

You should be able to do it yourself. I don't think there are any special tools required. Of course I've never done it on the VX so I could be talking out my arse.

If you do it yourself, one word of advice. When all is put back together, turn the engine by hand first before you hit the starter. When I replaced the timing belt on an old Eclipse for the second time, I figured I had the process down & almost talked myself out of turning the engine by hand. Somehow I had messed up & the timing was waaaay off. If I had hit the starter, the engine would have siezed.

Tom

[etlsport]

also make sure you get the proper TSB for the timing belt change... iirc many have had issues with following the repair manual only to be fixed by following the tsb

[nfpgasmask]

Thanks guys, I think I have all the paperwork I need. So now I just need to order up the parts.

When I do this, I will be sure to photograph the whole process and put together a new how to.

Bart

[kodiak]

Bart, do you have the timing belt replacement instructional video? If you don’t I can put it on YouTube for you.