Noahs944

Started using clips to hold the timing belt in place while servicing the top end or waterpump. Used this technique a few times because I was concerned with loosing the tooth engagement on the crank. Thought I'd share...

cas951

This is a good idea if not using a flywheel lock.

Another tip is when you have the crank at TDC lined up at the bell housing access hole, I also paint a mark on the crank pulley and oil pan to align. This way I don't have to keep looking for crank TDC via the access hole.

odonnell

^ Yeah but even with the flywheel lock, the belt is slack over the crank pulley and can move out by a tooth or two if you aren't careful.

Good tips!

marc abrams

Nice trick. A trick that I've use is a bungee cord from the belt to the hood.

Tiger03447

Dear Noah! thanks for the water pump pic! Now I am certain as to how the belt goes when it is next to the chrome belt guide on the water pump..My 83 didn't have one, but it will shortly, and this shows the proper belt routing over and under and around everything..Thanks again, Tiger 03447

Noahs944

My pleasure Tiger. Blue loc-tite is your friend for all these fasteners under the front cover me thinks.

FRporscheman

I'd be careful because if the crank wants to turn, it's gonna turn, and those clips won't stop it. If you don't have a flywheel lock, at least take out the spark plugs so the crank won't turn on its own due to compression.

It's easy to check the timing (and it should be checked when you're done with the belts). Line up the TDC mark on the flywheel, and see if the TDC mark on the cam sprocket also lines up. If the belt skipped any teeth, you'll find out right away!