How To Replace Timing Belt On Chrysler Sebring

Chrysler Sebring Timing Belt Replacing Procedure

how do you properly set and align the timing marks on the 2.4L DOHC motor. I've tried it with the Haynes manual several times and keep getting a stumbling idle with an occasional shut down after racing the motor and a engine code P0016.

I set the crank gear one tooth before the mark, the intake cam just like it it suppose to be, and the exhaust cam about half tooth back. Starting from the crank, up to the intake, then to the exhaust cam, using a wrench to turn exhaust cam to line up with intake, and use the tensioner to take up the slack and turn crank to line up. I have done the timing belt on the 2.4 engine like that since it came out.

INSTALLATION - TIMING BELT

1. Set crankshaft sprocket to TDC by aligning the sprocket with the arrow on the oil pump housing.
2. Set camshafts timing marks so that the exhaust camshaft sprocket is a 1/2 notch below the intake camshaft sprocket.
   CAUTION: Ensure that the arrows on both camshaft sprockets are facing up.
3. Install timing belt. Starting at the crankshaft, go around the water pump sprocket, idler pulley, camshaft sprockets and then around the tensioner.
4. Move the exhaust camshaft sprocket counterclockwise to align marks and take up belt slack.
5. Insert a 6 mm Allen wrench into the hexagon opening located on the top plate of the belt tensioner pulley. Rotate the top plateCOUNTERCLOCKWISE . The tensioner pulley will move against the belt and the tensioner setting notch will eventually start to move clockwise. Watching the movement of the setting notch, continue rotating the top plate counterclockwise until the setting notch is aligned with the spring tang. Using the allen wrench to prevent the top plate from moving, torque the tensioner lock bolt to 25 N·m (220 in. lbs.). Setting notch and spring tang should remain aligned after lock nut is torqued.
6. Remove allen wrench and torque wrench.
   NOTE: Repositioning the crankshaft to the TDC position must be done only during the CLOCKWISE rotation movement. If TDC is missed, rotate a further two revolutions until TDC is achieved. DO NOT rotate crankshaft counterclockwise as this will make verification of proper tensioner setting impossible.
7. Rotate the crankshaft CLOCKWISE two complete revolutions manually for seating of the belt, until the crankshaft is repositioned at the TDC position. Verify that the camshaft and crankshaft timing marks are in proper position
8. Check if the spring tang is within the tolerance window. If the spring tang is within the tolerance window, the installation process is complete and nothing further is required. If the spring tang is not within the tolerance window, repeat Steps 5 through 7.
9. Install engine mount support bracket .
10. Install upper timing belt cover.
11. Install the lower timing belt cover.
12. Install generator and bracket. Connect generator connections.
13. Install AC/Generator belt tensioner.
14. Install crankshaft damper
15. Install right engine mount
16. Install coolant recovery container
17. Install accessory drive belts.
18. Install belt splash shield.
19. Install right front wheel.
20. Connect negative battery cable.

Reasons To Replace Timing Belt

When To Replace Timing Belt

Timing belts have replaced timing chains on many of today's engines. Not to be confused with “V-belts” or “Serpentine belts”, which are located on the outside of the motor to drive accessories, timing belts perform a much more vital role.

The purpose of a timing belt is to provide a connection between the camshaft and crankshaft to ensure that the pistons and valves operate together in proper sequence. Timing belts have proven to be lighter, quieter and more efficient than chains, but those benefits come at a cost - they require more frequent replacement than chains.

Timing belts are used in two types of engines designated as "free-running" and "interference". If the timing belt breaks on a “free-running” design, the engine will stop and you will need a tow to the repair shop. There is enough clearance between the pistons and valves so no mechanical damage usually occurs. The installation of a new belt is usually all that is needed to get you back on the road.

If the timing belt breaks on an “interference engine”, mechanical engine damage will occur. Most commonly, the damage involves the pistons hitting open valves, resulting in the need for expensive repairs. In extreme cases, replacing the engine may be required.
Breakage is not the only reason to replace your timing belt. Looseness and wear can allow the timing belt to slip, resulting in very poor performance, a no-start condition, or engine damage.

Proper maintenance requires timing belt replacement at regular intervals – before it breaks or wears out. The manufacturers provide a replacement schedule and repair information for this critical component.