What have I done?!

[DougC]

Changed my timing belt, put in a new water pump and spark plugs while I was at it. Put everything back together carefully, and when I try to start it, the crankshaft and the belt to the alternator, etc. turn fine, but the new timing belt and associated pullies don't budge a bit! Did I leave something out?

Thanks in advance for helping a newbie.

-Doug

[pooldoctorstl]

Did you adjust the belt tensioner? If the belt isn't tight enough it can spin on the crank gear.

Jeff

[rlux4]

A step in the belt tensioning process is to turn the engine over by hand a couple revolutions. This not only "sets" the belt, it's a chance to watch that everything is turning correctly and that nothing is meeting interference.
Ron

[So Cal Mark]

if you took the crank sprocket off, perhaps the key fell out of the crank.

[DougC]

Thanks guys. I got the new belt on without removing the crank sproket. I think there's a problem with the tensioner. I guess I'll take the cover back off and see what I can figure out.

One more question: since the crank has now been spinning independent of the rest, will I wreck anything if I get the timing belt tightened an try to start the engine?

[rasouth]

After getting everything back together, turn the motor over by hand first a couple of times, just to make sure everything turns properly. If crankshaft spun and not the camshafts check to make sure nothing got smashed or bent, i.e. valves or pistons.

[Cozi]

I would imagine that didn't do the belt any good at all. I would be moved to get a new one just for "peace of mind".