Removing the timing belt

ALAVETS

MEMBER
1999 MITSUBISHI PAJERO
300,000 MILES

Hey guys,
I need to replace the front cam seal, and to do that I need to remove the timing belt.
My question is, how do I remove and replace the timing belt on a 1999 Pajero with a 3.5l engine?
I believe there is a belt tensioner, so is it just a case of marking the belt and cam and crank, making sure the timing mark is aligned, then removing the tensioner, which will then need to be put in a vice to push it back, insert the pin to lock it in place.
Then, with the timing belt off, pull off the cam wheel? Pop the old seal out, new seal in, cam wheel back on, timing belt on, tensioner on and then continue with the assembly of the rest?
Also, is there an easy way to get the belt back on or should it just slip back on?
Sorry about all the questions,

Rob

1 Reply

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,815 POSTS

Basically what you have described are the procedures but manualy working on it is not as simple as it seems. Failure to get the marks correct can result in improper engine performances and even damages.

Getting the crank pulley off requires special tools or at least an impact wrench. You would need someone to help you hold the belt or use clamps to hold the belt onto the pulley as you move from one pulley to another.

Before removing the belt tensioner, it is best to loosen the cam pulley bolts first and once belt is out, never try to turn the camshaft more than necessary. The cam shaft would tend to spring out of position if they are not held in position with aids.

This is a job I would not recommend for DIY.