Almost a disaster

pfarah · pfarah's Garage

I'm not sure whether I should be relieved or cry...
I changed the engine oil and decided to peek in the timing belt cover, just to verify that all was well. I've only driven the car less than 2k miles since taking ownership and had PO work receipts; one showing an engine rebuild with new belts, etc. last year October. How bad could it be, right? To my dismay, I found the tension pulley gone with just a rusted bolt in its place, two other pulleys in VERY bad shape and the plate behind the pulleys broken in a couple of places. I am grateful that the engine did not explode on me, especially since this inspection was just a last minute decision. Fortunately, I have a great mechanic that knows these cars well and we managed to barter the deal. I take great issue with the mechanic's shop in Ohio (can I state their name?) that performed the work. The ability for someone to send a job out to a customer in such a distasteful manner is both appalling and embarrassing. I do not claim to be an expert on these cars but I am very experienced in providing great customer service. I will submit pics tomorrow.

Gawernator · Gawernator's Garage

A rusted bolt..? How is that even possible?

pfarah · pfarah's Garage

That's exactly what I thought! Looking at the service manual this evening however, it appears that the tension roller is actually there but seized. In addition, the compensating shaft collar does not even touch the belt. Very strange... I'm shocked the engine ran as good as it did.

Gawernator · Gawernator's Garage

Lucky guy..

pfarah · pfarah's Garage

Some good news...
Having her apart, I discovered that the upgraded water pump was installed sometime during her younger years. Better yet, my mechanic friend and I bartered some antique telephone gear (in really nice shape) as form of payment so the pain is greatly subdued.

I refurbished the steering pump today with one of this site's great seal kits and a YouTube tutorial video since this was the only leaking component on the car and this was a good time as any... I also bought a used pump (spare) from a local guy who's been a great help to me these past few months since acquiring the car. Maybe I'll R&R this one too.