Timing belt timing on SOHC motor

[talon829]

I have a 93 Talon DL with the SOHC motor and could not find the info I need. I bought this car with 144,000 miles and it just passed 160,000. Having purchsed the car at an auction, I have no idea what the maintenance history of it is, but need to ask the following questions.

What is the guideline for changing the timing belt and water pump? I think I should get this done soon, but I have no idea what the recommended timing is for the SOHC.

Is there any way to tell if a timing belt failure is imminent? Handling or sound or, etc?

Thanks in advance,

 

[98RedGs]

You won't notice any difference in "driving feel" for your car if the timing belt is going. You will have to take off the top timing belt cover and physically inspect the belt iteslf. Just kind of "look at it" and if you notice it is worn greatly then you will need to replace the belt.

 

[Crazy E]

Welcome to the wonderful world of the 1.8

Luckily with our cars, if the timing belt breaks it won't destroy valves (though it will still leave you stranded)

Your car is looking good though, but I would lose the huge mud flaps, the look kinda off

 

[talon829]

Originally posted by 98RedGs
You won't notice any difference in "driving feel" for your car if the timing belt is going. You will have to take off the top timing belt cover and physically inspect the belt iteslf. Just kind of "look at it" and if you notice it is worn greatly then you will need to replace the belt.

in the driveway? All I have is the Haynes book and basic mechanical knowledge. I know the location of the top timing belt cover on the engine. Do I just remove it to access the belt for inspection? I do know how to recognize a worn belt.

Thanks

 

[talon829]

Originally posted by Crazy E
Welcome to the wonderful world of the 1.8

Your car is looking good though, but I would lose the huge mud flaps, the look kinda off

I thought that about the mudflaps, myself. They were on the car and I just haven't taken the time to remove them.

Thanks for the compliment on the car. I really like the color and I really like driving it.

 

[squid_12]

Originally posted by talon829
in the driveway? All I have is the Haynes book and basic mechanical knowledge. I know the location of the top timing belt cover on the engine. Do I just remove it to access the belt for inspection? I do know how to recognize a worn belt.

Thanks

The top cover is pretty easy to remove (mine had 3 bolts). Just be careful that you look at the entire belt. My belt just broke last week. Most of the belt looked prefect, except for the break point. I was lazy and whenever I checked the belt, I just did a quick look at the small portion that was visible.

By the way, I think the replacement is about every 60,000 miles