21 replies to this topic

[Ryland]

I got mine changed for less then $300 with parts on my d15z1, and that engine is a very simaler setup, only you also have to remove an engine mount to get at the belt, and timing marks are not as straight forword.

if you want to see what happens when you let your belt go, I have a head, and block with 7 bent valves, and a few pistens that look like someone went after them with a ball peen hammer, so it's not a big deal, $300 is alot to pay to have someone make sure your car is good for another 100,000 miles.
the hard part is getting the crank shaft pully off, and for that you need a braker bar, and a chain vise grip.

[slammin86]

I got mine changed for less then $300 with parts on my d15z1, and that engine is a very simaler setup, only you also have to remove an engine mount to get at the belt, and timing marks are not as straight forword.

if you want to see what happens when you let your belt go, I have a head, and block with 7 bent valves, and a few pistens that look like someone went after them with a ball peen hammer, so it's not a big deal, $300 is alot to pay to have someone make sure your car is good for another 100,000 miles.
the hard part is getting the crank shaft pully off, and for that you need a braker bar, and a chain vise grip.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I am going to inspect it this weekend. Hopefully it doesn't need changed, but if it does I will have to take it somewhere.

[B@T "El Argentino"]

Man, I say, look at the manuals and learn. That's how I learned about cars. Changing the timing belt is not hard. You should do it at 90,000 and then 160,000-180,000. Change water pump, tensioner, tensioner spring too.
You will need a torque wrench.
It looks complicated in the manuals but I think even a not-smart person can do it right (NOT CALLING YOU NOT-SMART).
Good luck

[yodaboy]

I think it would be a good idea to inspect and possibly change the timing belt on my recently purchased 87 crx.  Problem is, I do not know what I am looking for as far as wear on the belt itself.  Does anyone have a link to a walkthrough or something on inspecting the belt?  Or can someone tell me what I need to be looking for?

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

My local Honda dealer charges $249 for a timing belt change (belt included). As everyone else has pointed out, change the water pump too since it's torn out. The dealer can install this at the same time. Of course, this will usually add an additional $$75-100 because you've gotta pay for the pump and the coolant that is drained (might as well have it changed as well) and while you've got the coolant out, change the cheapie thermostat. The $400 dollar estimate that someone quoted isn't that far off if you want it done right and not have to deal with it.

If you do it yourself (and save money), the Honda parts are only about $150 (belt, pump, coolant, thermostat & gasket). I thought this was hard, but just take some time and try it. The hardest part of the whole thing is the darn crank bolt - these need to be taken off with an impact most of the time.

Hope this helps

[noodlerooney]

I changed all of my timing system parts. I like to use OEM for the timing parts, assure a better fit. Good luck, DIY, take your time, it's not that hard, great feeling of accomplishment. I used an impact wrench for the crank pully bolt. I took the wheel off and the shrouding, made the parts very accessible as compared to my other cars. There is a lot more info if you do a search on "timing belt". Make SURE it is done correctly before you fire it up.

Edited by noodlerooney, 18 November 2005 - 09:25 AM.

[B@T "El Argentino"]

I tip for loosing the crank bolt without using an impact wrench.
This is what I did.
1-Put the car in 5th gear.
2- E brake on
3- Take the crank splash cover of.
4- Keeping the car on the floor with (1,2) use a big wrench and your leg and loose the bolt, it works.

[slammin86]

I inspected the belt yesterday and it appears to be in great condition. No signs of fraying or cracking. I am going to inspect it again once winter is over and possibly change it then.