How to Replace a 1997 Ford Escort ( 2.0L & 1.9L) Timing Belt and Tensioner Replacement

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Disconnect negative terminal of the battery.

   Place wooden block on Jack and support engine underneath engine oil pan.(This will also provide clearance for access for removal of other engine components) Remove top right engine mount.,(See tip (A)),, (Use an 8mm or appropriate size Allen wrench to turn tensioner counter-clockwise one 1/4 turn.
   
   Insert a 1/8" drill bit into hole to keep the tensioner away from the timing belt and remove the belt.(See warning (b)), Remove the belt tensioner bolt and finally the timing belt tensioner.(See tip (B)and warning (c)),, Begin by mounting timing belt in an anti-clockwise direction beginning at the crankshaft.
   
   Try to remove any possible slack between crankshaft and camshaft when positioning around opposite side of camshaft sprocket.,,,, Remove the jack support.,,(See warning (d)), If everything works fine then give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done.
2. 2

   Step 2: Loosen right front (RF) wheel nuts (See Warning (a))

3. 3

   Step 3: Raise and support (RF) corner of vehicle with Jack and safety stands.

4. 4

   Step 4: Remove underbody splash guard.

5. 5

   Step 5: Remove drive belt

6. 6

   Step 6: belt tensioner

7. 7

   Step 7: and crankshaft pulley bolt.

8. 8

   Step 8: Remove timing belt cover.

9. 9

   Step 9: Loosen the timing belt tensioner bolt.

10. 10

    Step 10: To remove the timing belt tensioner

11. 11

    Step 11: release it back to its original position.

12. 12

    Step 12: Install the new timing belt tensioner.

13. 13

    Step 13: Install new timing belt.

14. 14

    Step 14: Release timing belt tensioner to place tension back against timing belt.

15. 15

    Step 15: Rotate engine for two full revolutions to make sure the timing marks are aligned.

16. 16

    Step 16: Install timing belt cover

17. 17

    Step 17: crankshaft pulley

18. 18

    Step 18: and drive belt tensioner.

19. 19

    Step 19: Install drive belt and adjust the height of the engine and position to enable installation of the engine mount.

20. 20

    Step 20: Replace RF underbody splash shield and install RF wheel.

21. 21

    Step 21: Lower vehicle to ground

22. 22

    Step 22: tighten wheel nuts

23. 23

    Step 23: and reconnect battery.

24. 24

    Step 24: Start engine and inspect for proper operation.

Detailed Guide

About the Author