Hi everyone,

Im new to the forums. I have found very good information in the forums from other post. I have a question. Im in the process of changing the timing belt on my wifes 2004 Santa fe 2.4. Im reading a lot about placing a screwdriver in a hole to keep the balancer and oil pump in place. The confusion I have is there are marks on both of those pullys. So why do I have to place a screwdriver in the plug hole? If the new belt is on and all the timing marks line up shouldn't everything be in time?

Thanks in advance.

 

Your best bet is to get a white paint marker from your local hobby store, and mark both the belt and pulleys before taking the old belt off. Then, with the new belt in hand, begin marking the belt with the same spots (counting teeth may be necessary). Double check your marks and install the belt. When you release the hydraulic tensioner pin, all your dots should line up perfectly. If not, don't try to rotate the engine. Instead, look at what didn't line up and try to picture in your head how far it has to move - usually only a tooth or two because when the tensioner is removed the first time, it may cause one or more of the pulleys to rotate - then remove and re-pin the tensioner. Keep doing this until all the marks line up. When you're satisfied with the result, turn the crankshaft twice while monitoring the marks. After the second revolution, the marks should once again be lined up.

I've performed this handy trick on several dodge 4-cylinders with great success.