Timing Belt Change

[wdmh306]

Hi All,

Have a 1979 Spider 2000

Going to replace the timing belt and water pump etc.. While I have the radiator out for repair. Any tips or suggestions before I start?

I have purchased two different repair manuals. The original shop Pininfarina manual and a Hayes manual, both have a pretty good handle on the job.

Just thought I would ask before putting the wrench to it.

Thanks!

[narfire]

Having the rad out if it is the first time is a good thing. There is a timing pionter just below the water pump, that has a 10 mm bolt that has to come out and then it will swing up and outof the way. Before starting though, I'd get the engine at TDC. That is when the notch on the crank is lined up with the longer point on the timing marker in conjunction with the holes on the cam wheels lined up with either the pointers on the front or the raised rib on the cam tower.
The manuals will get you through it but if you becomed bewildered, check in here. Really important to have the aux. pulley lined up properly, otherwise the #2 con rod can conect with the lobe on the end of the aux. shaft, breaking it.

[wdmh306]

Just printed it out and will staple it into my shop manual.. Thanks for the input!!

[RRoller123]

There are 2 different (at least 2 anyway, maybe more? I don't know) timing belt lengths, 144 tooth and a 146 tooth I believe it is. My 1980 2L FI engine needs the slightly longer 146 tooth belt. I found out the hard way after taking everything apart and then discovering that I had been sent the wrong belt and it wouldn't fit on. Wasted a few days waiting for a new one. Good idea to check it before you start.