[SkyhawkCaptain]

All,

I just passed 81K on the odo after having bought this truck about a week ago. I am sifting through pages and pages of info these awesome forums provide (up to page 79 on the DIY forum) and am under the impression that the timing belt in this thing is gonna need to be replaced around 100k or so.

The problem is that I am not a mechanic by any stretch of the imagination (If I was able to see the repair being done and participate in it I could repeat it again from memory without a problem). But the problem lies in replacing something like this (or the KS mod as I have also read).

Besides the belt itself, are there any other parts that you would want to replace while having this done? (I have already read this is a good time to repl the water pump, belts and pullies) I am trying to compile a list of parts and then try to find a shop locally that could do the work.

Would love to DIY this but just have to face reality that I have neither the resources, nor the understanding to pull this off.

Apologies for the wordy post.

 

[belac515]

When I hit 100K I hardly knew anything about my truck and hadn't found this forum before so needless to say I was clueless as what to do. I just took it to my regular mechanic and told him I needed a 100k tune up. He replaced all the belts, fluids, and a few other important things. I don't think you should worry too much as what to replace, an experienced mechanic should know everything that needs to be done.

 

[massbaster]

All,

I just passed 81K on the odo after having bought this truck about a week ago. I am sifting through pages and pages of info these awesome forums provide (up to page 79 on the DIY forum) and am under the impression that the timing belt in this thing is gonna need to be replaced around 100k or so.

The problem is that I am not a mechanic by any stretch of the imagination (If I was able to see the repair being done and participate in it I could repeat it again from memory without a problem). But the problem lies in replacing something like this (or the KS mod as I have also read).

Besides the belt itself, are there any other parts that you would want to replace while having this done? (I have already read this is a good time to repl the water pump, belts and pullies) I am trying to compile a list of parts and then try to find a shop locally that could do the work.

Would love to DIY this but just have to face reality that I have neither the resources, nor the understanding to pull this off.

Apologies for the wordy post.

you got almost everything.. get the timing kit as it will have new tensioner.

dont for get the thermostat. i would replace all hose clamps with real ones to prevent leaks and if you are doing timing belt, i would recommend cap rotor plugs maybe wires pcv valve.

and its been about 10 years since i had to do a timing belt, and with the pictures and write ups around here, its really an easy job.

good luck

 

[Mathster]

my first go around, I replaced the timing belt, accessory belts, thermostat, hoses, and a close examination on the pulley and tensioner bearings. the next go around (probably late next years) will get a new water pump added in. I dont offroad much and keep the engine bay reasonably clean, but with no salt used on our roads, corrosion isn't an issue for me.
One thing I would like to remind you to do, when you pull the radiator out, wash it off thoroughly.

 

[SkyhawkCaptain]

Thanks for the reply all,

BTW, how does one get to the spark plug furthest back by the firewall? (number six I believe?). I can see the other five just fine but that last one is buried waaaaaaayyyy back there and I have no idea how to grab it?

A buddy of mine suggested iridium plugs for it but I plan on just sticking with OEM plugs, any thoughts on those?

Thanks

 

[joefrontier2]

I had to lay on the engine. With the left hand you guide your finger tips of the socket with the other you hang onto the socket. You need at least one universal for the job.

With your left hand you want to run between the firewall and the upper air intake. It's really not as bad as it sounds but laying on the engine you will want some padding. I used some blankets and cardboard.

 

[TwoBills]

While the engine is apart for a timing belt, I'd reseal the gooseneck (thermostat housing) to the block. This is prone to leak and is a real bugger to do from scratch. Not bad w/the front of the engine already down.