1998 Plymouth Voyager timing belt

ZVI

MEMBER
1998 PLYMOUTH VOYAGER
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
175,000 MILES

The timing belt on my Voyager gave out. I've been told that replacing it is not a big deal. However, what is a problem is that my engine was probably damaged when broke. I believe the term used was that it is a non compliant part and that the engine was likely damaged and that if I put a new timing belt on it may not be able to handle the pressure and blow the engine.

Does this sound reasonable? Given the van has seen a lot of miles is this the kind of repair job that will most likely just be an expensive postponement of the inevitable?

I've also been told that replacing the engine outright is another option that might cost me upwards of 1500.00.

I'm interested in your opinion.

Zvi

1 Reply

LEGITIMATE007

MECHANIC
5,121 POSTS

Well when your belt snaps or slips it knocks the timing out of wack therefore causing improper movement of the valves and pistons thus making the pistons hit the valves causing them to bend. You need to find out if you caused any damage by doing a compression test. If this is normal than you can go ahead and put your new belt on and reset the timing. Otherwise you'll need to replace those damaged valves.