Timing a 96 DOHC....

[jmgtp]

Since the 96+ engines are interference engines, when installing a new timing belt if the crank is turned but the cams are not spinning (say if you have installed the new belt but have not locked the cam pulleys down so the crank and belt spin but the cam pullies are spinning freely on the camshafts - and you are rotating everything to seat the belt before timing the cams) wouldnt the valves strike the pistons? If so at such a low speed and force would this be damaging? If the cams flats are all facing upward and lock down tools installed would the valves be situated in such a way that they would not be struck by the pistons? Would be this correct and only way to spin the crankshaft without the camshafts spinning (in time with the crank) and not cause damage? Ive done my 91 belt twice (flirted with 13* before I opted to go to 15*-16*) so I know the procedure, but valves striking pistons was not an issue. I'll be doing a 96 engine in the coming weeks and was wondering if the valve clearance would be an issue and if there was a certain sequence in doing this in order for it to be ok. Sequence meaning if cam flats should be installed while spinning the engine and belt but not the cams or what? Anything else I should be aware of regarding timing a 96. My only other concern is if my existing specialty tools for the 91 will fit the 96, those tools being the cam flat hold downs and cam gear holder (as I understand it I wont be needing the cam gear puller for the 96 with the redesigned lock rings).

[jmgtp]

So no one here has replaced a Tbelt on a 96?

[jmgtp]

Seems like no one cares... but in the spirit of sharing: I found the info I was looking for by posting on PFF. Once again proving fiero guys rock! I think the fellow that gave me the info I needed has posted on this forum as well, at least his name looks familiar.

the info: http://www.fiero.nl/forum/Forum2/HTML/043395.html

[Anonymous]

Glad you found it. I have no input on timing belt stuff cuz Ive never done one.

[SappySE107]

i didnt even see this thread. You can time it any way you want afaik, cause when the cams are set with no tension, they flip to 1 of 3 positions that doesnt have any valves at full lift.

[pocket-rocket]

Not to mention you won't be able to turn any of the engine (cams or crank) with enough force to bend a valve or damage a piston, unless you get pissed and blow up into the Hulk :P