Timing Belt Replacement '89 S2

[kev]

Gents,

I have an '89 S2 with 42,000 miles on it and am looking at replacing the timing belt and water pump this winter and was wondering if anyone had a good procedure to follow. Any advice or warnings about what I might screw up or watch out for would also be appreciated. I have never done a timing belt but last winter I did the clutch etc., engine mounts, and oil pan gasket. Thanks in advance.

Kev

[SoCal Driver]

When was the last time the timing belt, cam cross over chain and chain pressure pad inspected and/or replaced?

I think you are pushing it at 42,000 if the answer is never.

As to doing this yourself; it's possible. If you don't have the factory manuals try to find the section on the S2 timing belt and cross over chain.

[kev]

Unfortunately, never.

kev

[turbohead7]

Hey kev, you can get precise procedures off the internet, through factory manuals or even a Haynes manual. You have an automatic tensioner on the cam belt which is really easy to set. A $pecial belt ten$ioning tool is used on the balance belt which is pretty tricky and hard to come by unless you can borrow/buy one. The tensioning roller and idler roller on the cam belt should always be replaced. Take a good look at the tensioning roller on the balance belt, as they are prone to failure. Rock them back and forth as you would a water pump pulley to check for excessive play. Now is always a good time to check out any oil leaks on the front of the engine, sometimes a re-seal is in order. There are mixed opinions on the water pumps, since yours is a lower mileage car, I would wait untill the next belt changing to replace it; unless it is leaking of course. I've done my share of water pumps, and on average they last untill about 100k, depending greatly on maintenance. Don't forget to re-tension your belts after 2,5oomi as they do stretch! Good luck man.