420A 420a Timing belt tips

[DrewmHolland]

Im currently rebuilding my 420a motor from the bottom up (I have to replace main bearings and possibly resurface the crank)
Im about to pull the timing belt off but there's 2 problems 1- i cant get the stupid timing cover off without breaking it and 2 - I really just need tips for timing the motor so that I don't mess it up when I put everything back together later on

 

[1999RSfwd]

The 420a timing cover isn't split at the head and the block. So that means you have to pull the front timing cover off, pull all the timing components off, and then pull the rear timing cover off. I suggest when you get the timing covers off you cut them at the block and the head. This would essentially give you an upper and lower cover. And would allow you to pull the head without removing all the timing components just to pull the rear timing cover. I cut my timing covers on my 420a, and I only run the lower covers now too.

Just make sure all your timing marks are lined up before you remove any of the timing components as well. Hope this helps

 

[Brian O Conner]

Just be careful with aftermarket cam gears the marks are not the timing marks. Aka fidanza cam gears. I would go to CI Motorsports for modifications type in 420a on there website search engine to fine modifications.

 

[Brian O Conner]

Make sure not to put the crankshaft timing gear on backwards either. It is a nightmare to get off.

 

[DrewmHolland]

Make sure not to put the crankshaft timing gear on backwards either. It is a nightmare to get off.

thanks, I went to an O'reilys to get a timing gear puller recently but they didn't have one that was a 3 bolt, do you know where I can get one?

 

[BLACK'98DSM]

Use one of these with the correct bolts. Usually have to add washers to the bolts since their heads are too small.

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[Brian O Conner]

I

thanks, I went to an O'reilys to get a timing gear puller recently but they didn't have one that was a 3 bolt, do you know where I can get one?

If you put that gear on backwards you will have to tap the 3 holes and use bolts on your puller to get it out. Ask me how I know . Do it right the first time. FYI get a haynes manual.