Need serious help in figuring out setting the timing when changing a timing belt!

SCOTTLAMBII

MEMBER
1998 FORD ESCORT
100,000 MILES

I have a 98 ford escort zx2 dual overhead cam, iam replacing the timing belt. I dont have a crank timing pin for it and cant buy one locally from anywhere. Is there anything I can use in its place? The dealership doesnt have it. Also it says to move the engine so that the #1 cylinder is in compression. None of the pulleys have marks on them either

5 Replies

KHLOW2008

EXPERT

Have you check if any of the places that loans out tools have it?

You can fabricate the tool yourself. Use a bolt that fits into the peg hole and grind the tip to the correct size to hold the crankshaft locking position.

The diagrams shows the various things you should be aware off.

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Monday, October 15th, 2012 AT 6:38 AM

SCOTTLAMBII

MEMBER

How long does the bolt have to be? I have a bolt that fits but im not sure long it has to be to hold the crankshaft locking position. Plus I cant seem to get the camshaft pulleys loose. The exhaust I can get it off but it leaked out oil and the bolt on the inside doesnt seem to want to move. Same with the intake camshaft pulley. Any tips?

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Tuesday, October 16th, 2012 AT 8:55 PM

KHLOW2008

EXPERT

I am not sure of the length. You can use a screw driver to measure the length.

For removing the cam pulley bolts, you need something to hold the cam and it might require some effort.

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Tuesday, October 16th, 2012 AT 9:03 PM

SCOTTLAMBII

MEMBER

Alright I got most of it figured out, there are markings on the camshaft gears, where are these suppose to be lined up at? Still cant get them loose tho, any trick? I know left is loose and right is tight but is it opposite than that? Like do I loosen to the right? (The front of the vehicle)

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Tuesday, October 16th, 2012 AT 11:23 PM

KHLOW2008

EXPERT

Both bolts are identical so how you loosen the left is how you should be doing with the right.
There are no reference for the markings on the camshaft.