Why does tensioner for timing belt keep breaking

Tiny
SPAHCHEW
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 FORD ESCORT
  • 14,000 MILES
I have a Ford Escort 98 stick. The tensioner for the timing belt has needed to be replaced twice in the last few months. What would cause it to keep breaking? Is it the shops fault or is there something else probably wrong which is causing this. Also, before I take it back to the shop how do I tell if that is the reason my car is broken down AGAIN. I don't want to take it to that shop unless I know that is what is wrong with it because if it is something else they will charge me over 100$ for diagnostic. If that is the problem though they have to fix it for free due to the warranty on the work and parts. Thanks
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Wednesday, October 12th, 2011 AT 10:16 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,005 POSTS
Does it sound odd when the engine cranks that would indicate the timing is wrong?
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Wednesday, October 12th, 2011 AT 11:32 PM
Tiny
SPAHCHEW
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It no longer goes at all. I think it is broken again. I noticed that right before it has broken each time it sounds really loud and runs reeeeeeeally rough.
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Wednesday, October 12th, 2011 AT 11:37 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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There is a good chances it broke. The timing belt cover needs removed to check.
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Wednesday, October 12th, 2011 AT 11:50 PM
Tiny
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If I take it off how do I tell if the tensioner is bad?
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Thursday, October 13th, 2011 AT 12:52 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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The belt will be lose.
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Thursday, October 13th, 2011 AT 1:12 AM

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