Help w/ timing belt(4g63t 2g)

[Batmobile]

There is a special tool called MD998738 that compress' the auto tensioner. Now..what if ya don't have that tool? CAN you possibly use something else?!?!?
Please..I'm depresst for any sugestions or what have ya done to get by w/o using it or is there no getting out of it?
I many special tools for the 420a motor..but just picked up this wounderful talon awd...and I've delt w/ enough t-belts breaken..so I'm going to do it right this time.
Please up.

 

[talonawd94tsi]

we also use a vice to compress the hydro tensioner

 

[boostedinaz]

I know you can use the battery hold down rod to do the same thing. I know it has to be modified but I cant remember how. I will let a 2G guy give better info, but it will work.

Michael

 

[leet]

Use a vise, then stick a lil allen wrench in the holes to keep it compressed.

Worked like a champ for me

 

[luv2rallye]

Yes here is the battery hold down rod: http://www.vfaq.com/mods/timingbeltNOTE1.html. You can also buy the real thing for $8.55 + S&H at 800-533-0492 (part MLR-MD-998738).

And here is the correct timing belt proceedure: http://www.vfaq.com/mods/timingbelt-2G.html. It's also wise to replace the water pump, balance shaft belt, tensioner and idler pulleys at this time.

Actually you don't need the threaded rod tool (MD998738). I have done over a dozen without it. (I use a 90 degree long nose pliers put in the 2 holes in the tensioner pulley to tension it.) But it does make it a lot easier and faster - especially for someone who has never done it before. My last one was stubborn and took so much longer than the others that I finally broke down and bought it for the next time. You can decide. The important thing is to make sure you have that auto tensioner setting wire (allen wrench) moving freely in the tensioner hole after you turn the crankshaft and wait for the belt to stretch. This will then automatically make the distance between the tensioner arm and tensioner body be correct (.15 - .18 in.). (ref. my last entry at: http://www.dsmtuners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=125277&highlight=MLR-MD-998738)