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Thursday, January 10, 2013

Ceras Victoria (Honda Prelude), Timing Belt (Attempt 1)



I went to do the timing belt on my car which did not end up happening. The last time a timing belt was done it seems like a mechanic used seize or lock tight on the pulley bolt (most likely) or cross threaded the whole thing.

So, despite having a professional grade 1/2" and 3/4" drive air gun at my disposal, the 3/4" meant to work on medium and large trucks, we were unable to get the bolt to budge. In fact, we had around 400 lb. ft. on a bolt  that was only supposed to be torqued to 180 lb. ft.

Needless to say, timing belt, front main oil seal, and water pump did not happen. The lower timing belt could not be removed.

The day was not a total waste though. I wound up replacing the spark plugs, valve cover gasket (little leaky) and valve cover grommets (much more leaky) all before having a misfire.

Also discovered that the camshaft seals need to be replaced, but those cannot be done without being able to have full access to the timing chain.

I may try the belt again when it is warmer. Otherwise, and at the moment, it looks like the timing belt will not be coming out without removing the crankshaft. Oh joy!

My family friend Norman was helping me out with this.