How hard is a timing belt change.....really?

[gladesteen]

My '93 Talon is in BIGTIME need of a timing belt change.
I looked at the VFAQ for the install and it looks a bit challenging to say the least!

All those lineups, special tools, ect....

I'm just wondering if I should try this myself or have a mechanic with all the right tools do it?

Dont get me wrong.......I AM mechanically inclined, but just have never done one of these before.

My car has 124k on it, so I would also be changing out all the other stuff recommended.

If you have any suggestions on trouble spots....PLEASE let me know before I start this adventure this coming Saturday!


Thanks!
Mark

 

[steve]

Figure $400-500. I draw the line at some point on how much homework I'm willing to do for someone else. Going to Conicelli's web site and looking up all the parts for you is way across the line. Sorry. Between the Timing Belt VFAQ and what I've already posted you can look up the prices for everything you might need.

Steve

 

[Goro21]

I need to get my timing belt replaced soon also, as im approaching the 60k mark. Im not so mechanically inclined as most of the people on this forum though.. any clues as to what it might cost to have satan or another mechanic swap it for me? Thanks.

 

[AW4G63]

I just did mine with much help from DSMED.

I bought the timing belt kit from Buschur. $200 for everything! Great F-in deal.
OEM T belt
OEM Balance shaft belt
OEM Tensioner
3 Goodyear acces. belts

and a Water pump for $45 too.

It just takes some time. Have a friend with you to help. And you dont need ANY special tools.

If you run into a problem getting the crankshaft nut off you can use a trick some Cleveland DSMers filled us in on.

--Put the pulley bolts in and wedge a wrench in the bolt to a secure spot. Then put your crankshaft socket in the nut and wedge a breaker bar against the control arm. Hop in the car and just barely flick your ign. It should pop real loud. It loose as can be.

I cant be responsable if you mess it up but by doing that it saved us about a days worth of trying to get it off to get to the balance shaft belt.

It doesnt make much sence about but if you need help PM me or email me.

Good luck.
And once your done you will have a load of worrys off your shoulders. And have 1 tbelt job under your belt.

 

[Ghost Rider GS]

here is one more thing thats an option if your valve cover seals and gasket are in time for replacement you might want to change it cause it might no sit the same when you go to put everything back together .... and please take your time with the tensioners you should never be saying "that should good enuff" do it exactly to specs i had to do my belt 3 times and my head twice because of lack of knowledge of the car .... ill tell you this i know alot more of the motor now