'85 Jumped timing - Not sure what to do next
12-28-2015, 01:42 PM
#1
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'85 Jumped timing - Not sure what to do next
So my '85 has 190K, Had timing belt etc changed at about 150K, but it appears the tensioner or something gaveway and my mechanic informed me that the belt is slightly loose and the timing is now off. The car shut off on me driving down the expressway. If I try to restart it, it will run poorly at about 500RPM and then eventually die.
The Mechanic wants $600 for the timing belt/tensioner etc, and even then, I'm not sure the engine wasn't damaged, so that's a pretty big risk for $600. Any suggestions (or any other test we can do on it without plunking down $600) or should I just go for a rebuild with this amount of miles on it? Pretty bummed right now. What's a rebuild go for these days?
The Mechanic wants $600 for the timing belt/tensioner etc, and even then, I'm not sure the engine wasn't damaged, so that's a pretty big risk for $600. Any suggestions (or any other test we can do on it without plunking down $600) or should I just go for a rebuild with this amount of miles on it? Pretty bummed right now. What's a rebuild go for these days?
12-28-2015, 01:51 PM
#2
Welcome to ZDriver!
A simple compression test will tell you if the engine was damaged or not... either you left out that part, or you need a new mechanic. If the timing belt "slipped" as he said, reset it and test. There are simple ways to check an engine without pulling it. Your mechanic should know this....
A simple compression test will tell you if the engine was damaged or not... either you left out that part, or you need a new mechanic. If the timing belt "slipped" as he said, reset it and test. There are simple ways to check an engine without pulling it. Your mechanic should know this....
12-29-2015, 07:47 PM
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So mechanic says would be about $600 to get in there and do a compression check and replace the timing belt, so at a crossroads. Not sure what to do. Rebuild motor...put a used one in there, or go forward with the current one with 190K on it and see what they come up with.
12-30-2015, 08:40 AM
#5
Are you not up to trying it yourself? The VG30 engine is really simple to work on, especially with the FSM in hand (it's free to download at XenonZcar.com Z31 Factory Service Manuals)
Once you get the accessory belts off and timing covers removed, it's all straight forward and can be done with basic tools. The only "hard" part is getting the crank pulley off which can take some effort if it's never been done before.
If you aren't up to it, sounds like you're going to be investing AT LEAST $600 to get an answer.
Once you get the accessory belts off and timing covers removed, it's all straight forward and can be done with basic tools. The only "hard" part is getting the crank pulley off which can take some effort if it's never been done before.
If you aren't up to it, sounds like you're going to be investing AT LEAST $600 to get an answer.
12-30-2015, 09:37 PM
#6
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I do have the FSM, and I suppose I could do it myself, or try. Only issue right now of course I live in the Midwest, it's freezing cold and don't have a heated garage, so a spring project likely for sure. I actually work at a race track as well, so I know I'd have lots of help if I needed it. Will keep you posted, and I appreciate the help!
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