jwillman

I tried to pull the top side timing belt covers off to validate timing and I am obviously missing some step. I have not removed the radiator lines as I would like to just check the belt condition and verify proper insatllation.

I have the bolts out but trying to clear what looks like the bolt tunnel past the pulley seems impossible and I did not waht to break it by being too aggressive.

Is there a trick I am missing? I have looked at the WSM and done some searches and thisappears another one of those they assume I have done it before moments I guess.

Thanks!

Mrmerlin

what cover are you try to remove??
to check the belt you would remove the top passenger timing cover.
your car should have one bolt in it,
once the bolts out then you have to move it forwards to clear the standoff inside the timing cover,
you may have the bend one or more of the coolant hoses to do this

NoVector

Jim - Not sure about a 79, but on my 84, there's one bolt in the center of the top passenger cover. AND, I think there's a cheese-head bolt at the top of the cam cover--oriented close to where the cool air breather hose is.

Good luck and hope it's in good shape. / Bruce

jpitman2

My 83 only has one 10mm headed bolt holding the top cover on. As above, remove bolt, bend top rad hose out of the way, wriggle cover out. You can then get the tension check tool onto the correct belt location etc. The other side has cap screw on the rear edge of the cover down the side - I had to go out and buy a ball ended allen key to access this one when I did the belt & wp job.
jp 83 Euro S AT 52k

Erik N

I am able to get them off without removing the radiator hoses, and dumping coolant, but just barely. I really have to tug on that right hose (L hand)to get them to clear. I do have to unfasten the alternator, though. 81 euro S 16v engine.