Change Engine Timing with the BELT ON!! (Remove Just the Covers & Save Time) ⏱️

[@EasyFixShaun]

*_New sway bar link video_* kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZoSbe3WblM-hbMk

[@conniealldis]

Would this work for a 2002 Ford F150 5.4 v8. I want to move the cams forward 1 tooth.

[@EasyFixShaun]

It wont likely work the same on a timing chain because chains don't stretch and slip the same over the sprocket. You could experiment and try to find a way. I have not done it to a chain or found a way to do it on a chain. I think standard replacement on a chain will be best. ...until someone figures it out. Could be risky but if you figure it out-make a video! 😀🔧

[@conniealldis]

@@EasyFixShaun Thank you

[@michaelhatem9362]

Dude I want to marry you. Seriously, I feel like I should at least be giving you money. Been an engineer for 37 years, and this is the best, most helpful thing I have ever learned. Thanks a million.

[@EasyFixShaun]

😂 haha. No problem. You can tip me on the "thanks" button. It's one of my favorite tricks too! 😀🔧

[@samuelortega6030]

Dude, I did the timing belt replacement with tensioner and water pump on my 2001 Honda CRV. I did not crank the engine Once I finished the job I just cranked it up and it idle really bad. I still drove the car that way for two days until the engine light came on and I don’t remember the code, but it was running rich so I went back to the garage remove the valve, cover and put a long screwdriver down cylinder one once I was at top dead center. The exhaust cam was off by two teeth. I did this trick in the car cranked up as it should with no hesitation. Thank you so much for this life-saving information. I’ll keep you updated on how my CRV runs as of right now so far so good.

[@laglossautoglass2719]

So glad i found this video. I thought i was going to have to tear it all down again. Way easier 🎉

[@EasyFixShaun]

🤝

[@Tomsfoolery.]

That is an awesome trick! I can think of several times where that would have saved me some time!

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thanks! It's crazy how i found it to. I may put how that happened in the follow up video 😀🔧

[@diycast6914]

I can easily say that this is probably the most grateful I've been for any type of youtube video I've EVER watched. My timing belt is extraordinarily difficult to install so this trick EASILY saved my 3+ hours from removing and reinstalling it. Thanks a million for the genius nugget of knowledge and excellent tutorial. 🍻🙏

[@EasyFixShaun]

You are so welcome! Anytime!! Just one of my favorite tricks, trying to pass on the little knowledge I have 😃🔧

[@randomrebuilds]

I watched this video a few weeks ago in preparation of re-doing a timing job on an H22 Prelude engine. Just yesterday, after one crank rotation, it was off by a tooth and I did this trick on an H22 and this trick worked like a charm - thank you for this strategy!

[@EasyFixShaun]

Great to hear! Glad it helped😃

[@steveperry5225]

Have used this method on huge double row chains using a deep 1/2” socket! Saves so much time and sweat!

[@EasyFixShaun]

Really!? What type of equipment is that?

[@panagiotis1519]

Indeed, I'd like to know too!

[@moosemobileautorepair]

Buddy... you don't know how much grief and frustrations and hassles I've been through. You saved by butt big time! Thanks so much for putting this video out. I've been crying trying to get these stupid cams to line up after I put the toothed idler on. The proper amount of tension needs to be applied on the toothed idler, but not too much, otherwise the cams move. I saw your other video with putting the tensioner on last, but it didn't work for me. Thanks so much and God bless you sir! 🙏 😁

[@EasyFixShaun]

No problem! I think I put an idler on last in the older video and that is the trick on Subbies. Glad to help! Thanks for the comment. Your channel looks good, keep it up 😃🔧

[@moosemobileautorepair]

@@EasyFixShaun Thanks brother I appreciate that. Will do. I'm liking your channel also I've been following for quite some time now I can't seem to recall how long though.

[@EasyFixShaun]

No way! Thanks man. I really appreciate that a lot 😀😀

[@TT-cv7rx]

Awesome 👏🏼 thanks 🙏🏼

[@Chillidogster]

Fantastic solution, especially for a DIY guy like me. Your videos are super useful. Thank you!

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thanks! Im glad you like them😀😀

[@angie19712]

Ok. Wow. What a freaking enormous hack. !! Thank You emphatically. But how do I figure out whete Im off exactly.? I know ur gonna answr ... by timing light. Heres what i did. 2000 Isuzu Enemy V6. I marked everything WHERE IT WAS without dead center. I realize now for a non pro, this can be a problem. Reassembly is ok. Then I cant reset my timing belt so my man helps force it on . It skipped one or so teeth. Cuz now it wont start. How do I find the off digit.?? Im so frustrated with Isuzu. I havent worked on a harder rig. Dumb design. Can u please kindly help navigate me ?? Lol. I so appreciate ur reply. Angieford in roseburg oregon.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Hey Angie. To do the trick properly you will need all the covers off so you can see your timing marks. It will save time in the event it is needed but it should only be used at the point of belt installation where all marks can be seen. Otherwise if you guess its extremely likely you will cause engine damage. Valves can easily contact each other or the pistons if your marks are off more than 1 or 2 teeth. 😃🔧

[@fullmetalrising20]

This is such a life saving hack when your in the mechanic field, I can't tell you how many times I've been off a tooth or 2 and had to take 20 Minutes to disassemble and reassemble and waste time, that 20 minutes adds up and puts other work behind, not to mention this could also be implemented to help with pulling slack that may occur in the side of the belt opposite of the tensioner, thanks for this video my man!💯🤘🏽

[@EasyFixShaun]

You nailed it! You are welcome. Thank for the comment. Been there with you man. Glad to help out 😃🔧

[@kmt5.737]

It does work and save time, however if you have a spring tensioner I would highly recommend loosening the tension just a little. Adjusted my crank pulley and ended up ruining the timing belt.

[@EasyFixShaun]

The belt will deflect. I have loosened tensioner a long time ago and the trick doesn't work consistently. The belt can skip teeth in an undesirable fashion. What year make model engine are you working on?

[@evegarcia8829]

Working on my 2012 chevy cruze 1.8 none turbo. When I tried to remove the crankshaft bolt, my exhaust camshaft moved out of place a lot. I want to move it backwards but it's nearly impossible. Specially me being so little and not that strong...😁 I'm sure this trick will not help me my situation, but it was great video!!👍👍

[@EasyFixShaun]

Should work on your timing belt as long as there is access for the tool to ride around the belt. I haven't tried it on your motor. That is the only thing as far the trick working. If the cam moved more than a couple teeth and I don't have experience on that particular motor I would pull the belt off and do it the normal way. If I knew the motor better I would use the tool if at all possible. I have done it will success on motors that are off 4 teeth no problem. The more teeth off the more risk there is to valve damage from contacting the pistons.😃🔧

[@ericankney5957]

It's mind boggling to think of all the saved hours that could come out of this video, multiplied across all the people that watch it, all the people they tell about this, and all the engines they work on. Figure that time as money and it could be the economy of a small country over time...

[@EasyFixShaun]

In theory on my end-No 😂 In practice in the real world-YES! 😀

[@jessetruck903]

Thank you for you video, I’m just curious what your reasoning is for not doing this trick if timing is off more than 2 teeth? What are your thoughts about potential harm in doing this trick if the motoro were even off by, say 15 teeth?

[@EasyFixShaun]

When i use the trick, my reasoning is just generally trying not to risk damage motor internals. 1 or 2 teeth max should be a rule of thumb for the trick. The tricks main objective value is quickly fixing belt service timing when off 1 tooth timing a fresh belt. 2 teeth gives a little lee way to do the trick the wrong direction once. Interference motors where valves can contact pistons may have some damage if more than two teeth generally speaking. All motors are different. Non-interference motors can be done 15 teeth no problem. Interference motors can usually go a couple teeth no problem. But proceed with caution kind of thing beyond that. This Subaru motor can go about 4 or 5 teeth before any internal contact happens. I tested this and was careful to stop when contact was made. You can look up your motor design and that should help understand what you have and far you can go with it. Great question 😀

[@raulcabronero5649]

I will do this if i go with issues with my tiburon v6. I will do this change soon this week. I need to ask something.. the water pump is leaking .. did need a sealand when use a gasket? Car cames onky with a gasket and the new pump cames with new gasket.. are this need sealan? Some says no others says a little

[@EasyFixShaun]

Excellent! I would recommend using the same sealer or gasket that the factory used for best results. I would also recommend a factory belt and pump, then you can be confident you won't have any issues until the next belt replacement interval 😃

[@martinnormand7458]

Awesome tip! Do you know if US made, Mitsuboshi brand timing belts have a production date on them?

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thanks! Im not sure about the date code but i have seen those before. They might be on them. I do know about counterfeit parts and have seen many of those belts fail with the Mitsubishi name on them. So keep an eye out for that 😀

[@sheepersim]

Wow ... I am about to use this on a Honda J series 3.5 V6 on the rear cam. Is there any concern with rotating the engine counter clockwise with everything attached?

[@EasyFixShaun]

I do it all the time. Im always go slow, theres lots of compression on that motor. I don't force it and it always works great for me. I love the trick on that motor. I sliced my hand wide open on that motor one time when that cam moved. Its very sharp and under spring tension from the valves and likes to move during the timing process. I just time it one or two teeth off now and fix with the trick. Much safer and much faster for me 😀😀

[@shannoncrawford7212]

Just did a new to me ‘13 TL a couple days ago. Yeah, that rear cam slipped. Have to put a good amount of pressure on the wrench (should’ve used a breaker bar and socket) to get it back in place. But at the same time have to be sensitive enough to not go too far/fast or it springs the other way just past the TDC mark. Welp, my hand got slammed between the wrench and the engine. Got a couple nasty gashes on my hand and pinky.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Oh man. That makes me cringe! Been there, I am sorry! On that motor cam locks could be helpful also. But my preferred method is still the trick 😃

[@markhuyette8509]

My Honda Pilot did not work on the the rear cam gear to fat and got stuck in there

[@RonHughes-f5z]

Great idea! Working on Hyundai xg350 and I know this will help. I have an idea to use a magnet to hold the bit in place. Will try this and let you know. THANKS

[@EasyFixShaun]

Great tip! Let me know how it works 😀😀

[@bradleyhartsough9843]

Can I safely turn clockwise on a 2003 Honda Civic d17a engine? Jumped one tooth.

[@EasyFixShaun]

The trick by nature isn't necessarily safe. Anything can happen. But- with that in mind, I have never had a problem moving any engine belt system in either direction (1 tooth adjustment from perfect time) as long as there is room for the tool to pass around the pulley needing adjustment. Some covers get in the way and that creates the most problem. For example: If the crank is off one tooth and there is no room to pass the tool around the crank, but there is on the cam sprocket or sprockets, I will usually just do the trick twice, once on each cam. Does that make sense? 😃🔧

[@shockerdcr]

This kicks ass ! Just had to do it today . Instead of taking tensioner off I just did this to move it one tooth. Saweeet!!!

[@EasyFixShaun]

Awsome! Im glad it worked for you. What year make engine?

[@leonardormsby6311]

2007 PT Cruiser cam belt will it work when the upper cams are together?

[@EasyFixShaun]

Should work fine! I have used it on that motor 😃

[@mikehoncho7165]

Dude where ya been?

[@EasyFixShaun]

I took a small break. Back at it again now. Feels good 😃

[@vlader7515]

Any chance this works on a timing chain lol I have a ford focus I want to do this to

[@EasyFixShaun]

Good question. I have never tried it on a chain. Would work in theory as long as the tensioners are not the locking type. May need a larger tool, and may need to go slower to accommodate hydraulic tensioner compression. I would guess it works best on belts but I have been wrong before. Just read these comments 😂😃

[@michaelraubold5193]

i am using this practice since the early VW Rabbits since the 1.5 Diesels and Audis including Gas engines since my training days in Germany, works on every timing belt regardless what vehicle, good secret fixing somebody else's screw up for a good pay, i use a 1/4 bolt on a mig welder wire not to drop the bolt down an open cover, works great

[@EasyFixShaun]

Awsome!! Great tips! 😀

[@chuckpick]

Right cam is off one tooth. found this video cool trick, gonna field test this now on 06 Hyundai 2.7L v6 lol

[@EasyFixShaun]

Awsome! Best of luck 😀🔧

[@RayR-c2r]

😅can you do this on 4.7 Toyota vvti says don’t go counterclockwise? This is great fix. Thanks

[@EasyFixShaun]

Yes if your careful and slow and let the compression bleed off as you go 😀

[@EasyFixShaun]

Good question by the way.

[@johnperalta3190]

Thank you we'll see or I mean I 'll see if it works when I turn the key on . But any ways thanks

[@EasyFixShaun]

Best of luck to you on your project 😃

[@karl5635]

Just found you video after doing a timing belt change on a audi a3 , saved me so much time having to strip it all down again , thank you

[@EasyFixShaun]

Great! No problem 😃

[@shanflix]

Changing the timing belt on my Wife's 2003 beetle 1.8 turbo is not easy. It involves removing an engine mount and lots of hoses. Car ran great after swapping belts, but began throwing PO016 error codes(crank and cam sensors outta whack). needed to move a tooth forward on the Cam. This trick allowed me to advance it one notch without having to do a complete teardown. Thank You

[@EasyFixShaun]

You da man! No problem. Glad to help out on the VW! The trick is a lifesaver when you need it and was born from needing a way to change the timing without removing everything again 😃🔧

[@JnRskaters]

Im doing the belt on the same car as yours as my gf just 2000 and I think I have the same problem gonna try this and I’ll come back is there any tricks that you did on your beetle

[@shanflix]

@@JnRskaters the trick worked great. The only other things I’ve done is replace the plastic coolant fittings with aluminum.

[@JnRskaters]

@@shanflix did you do it on the top crank or bottom and do you just go the opposite way you want it to j Ump

[@moosemobileautorepair]

Thanks Shaun for your help. I appreciate the tip.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Wow! Thank you so much for the support!! I am so grateful for you. It will go a long way. Glad to help 😃😃😃🔧

[@rubenproost2552]

They tell me counterclockwise is a yuuuge nono.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Generally you want to only spin the belt in the direction of engine rotation. That rotation is what the tensioner is designed to keep the tension best at 😃🔧

[@frankguyton9596]

Does this trick work on a 2003 Honda 3.5

[@EasyFixShaun]

Yup, I have done it many times on the cam pulleys of that engine. Mainly just the left/rear most pulley. I have never needed to do it on the crank plus I don't think it would work, there is a metal engine rib/cover in the way I think. Anyways, I have also sliced my hand open on the camshafts pretty bad trying to hold and time them. The top left cam is hard to align and under valve spring tension. I loves to spin on me. I use the trick typically every time now on every 3.5 timing belt. I just time it one tooth off now, check time, its usually still off a tooth, use the trick...perfect 😃🔧

[@lannybrasher2452]

What a wonderful bit of information. Amazing.👍

[@codyhackworthy9764]

If this works your going to be my new best friend.

[@EasyFixShaun]

did it work?

[@stephenseifert3193]

Won't that stretch out the new belt or tear some of the fibers inside of it it's got nylon straining inside the belt

[@EasyFixShaun]

No belt damage for me ever. I have done it a lot. Belt deflection can easily absorb this in my experience. Some systems have hydraulic tensioners that absorb also but it isn't needed. It is similar to a bike chain on a single speed bike. It just works 😃

[@EasyFixShaun]

BTW, if you are concerned try it with your old belt a few times to test it and that could help you decide if you like it or not 😃

[@nickschuldt9229]

I'm 3 teeth off to the left of the I not the T on a 2uzfe engine

[@EasyFixShaun]

Did the trick help?

[@mrsir8916]

A weight has been lifted off my back .

[@EasyFixShaun]

😀😀🏋️‍♂️

[@c.harrington1034]

Ive got a 06 v.w golf tdi 1.9 diesel and i replaced w.p timing belt tentioner and now its out of time it starts but after 1st gear is sluggish bogging and loss of power if i feather pedal it slowly will get up to about 45 mph trying to figure out if its ahead or behind i timing can i reverse the crank and or cam with this trick i was under impdession not to reverse the motor any help would be great

[@EasyFixShaun]

Yup! Watch the video closely. It's a weird concept to grasp even for me! As long as you have a rubber cogged belt and there is room for the special tool to pass cleanly around the pulley in the desired direction..... you should be able to move the timing without removing the belt or tensioner.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Also YES, You can move a timing mark "Forward or Reverse" 😃

[@c.harrington1034]

Ok sweet im doing just that now!!

[@EasyFixShaun]

How did it go? Any luck?

[@nocheesable2345]

Whaaaaat!

[@EasyFixShaun]

Okkkkkkay! (Little john?). Yup the trick works good 😀🔧

[@David-mu5rv]

Ok, can you rotate the crank in both directions? I thought that was a no no.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Doesn't matter on this motor if you go slow 😃

[@EasyFixShaun]

You are correct though! The tensioner is designed to take the slack on the "backside" of belt tension created by the crank pulling on the belt. So reverse direction will effect that process at the tensioner and could cause the belt to skip. If I want to reverse direction for the trick (or any other reason during timing process), I will go slow and allow compression to bleed off. That way no skipping will happen. I am very carefully monitoring everything while doing this. If there is too much pressure while turning crank.....I wait......then turn some more. And so on until I get the pulley into the position I want. I hope that helps. I do this all the time and have had a belt skip a tooth on occasion in reverse direction when I go to fast and force it. But overall it works just fine to accomplish the goal of timing without removing the belt 😃

[@ColbyJohnson]

This is awesome, thank you!

[@EasyFixShaun]

You're very welcome! 🎯

[@singh-zq9mh]

Hello.. i am having a problem with timing belt just hoping if you can give any suggestion 1) so my timing mark on sproket and on top of engine is aligned but my belt is 1 tooth behind.. what can i do in this case

[@singh-zq9mh]

Just FYI I marked the old belt marks tdc with new that's why I am saying my belt is 1 tooth behind the tooth to align with engine and cam shaft mark for tdc

[@EasyFixShaun]

Well there are a couple things to check here. Double and triple check you have the correct belt with the correct amount of teeth to be sure the belt is 1 million percent correct so you don't chase your tail for no reason 😀. Also if it isn't the actual oem belt or and Aisin belt..... throw it in the trash immediately. Perfection quality parts here only or you will have very intense problems.... been there seem that a lot. 😀 If that belt is correct, a couple things could be happening. 1. Slack isn't accounted for and as soon as you tighten belt manually or with a tensioner, the engine will be one tooth out of time (matching the belt marks). In this case use the belt marks and retime. Once you tension the belt it should pull the sprocket marks into correct position so that it appears sprockets and belt are all lined up. The other thing that could be happening is some engine marks are slightly off characteristically and its best to use the belt marks. Some engines its the opposite and i ignore the belt marks and just line up the sprockets. What year make model engine do you have?

[@singh-zq9mh]

@@EasyFixShaun It's 2010 caravan 4.0 ... I moved the cam a lil bit and put it back in place... It was 1 tooth behind but with tensioner realse it all got aligned and it was perfect appreciate your help... Thanks a lot

[@EasyFixShaun]

Great job getting it sorted out! Nothing wrong with removing and retiming :)

[@JoJo-ki9bq]

on a sohc Kia soul I need to go back one tooth so i place the bit in back of my cam then move it clockwise? Thanks for any help

[@EasyFixShaun]

Nice. Im not sure on your motor without seeing it. But Ya the mark on the sprocket should always move one tooth towards the special tool that you decide to use on each application. It's a weird concept and hard to understand. Sometimes i mix it up and go the wrong direction on the first try. Make sure you go back the other direction if you go the wrong way. Then you are back to where you were and can try again after that. You don't want to be of more than a tooth or two, you could cause damage in some motors in the 3/4 teeth zone. So unless you know the motor well and have experience don't do that. 1-2 teeth off is usually a safe zone to play in on moat any motor with no engine damage. Does that help? Watch the video a few times and hopefully it should make sense 😀. Its a weird trick you aren't alone in not fully understanding it right off the bat.

[@JoJo-ki9bq]

@@EasyFixShaun Thanks

[@EasyFixShaun]

Yup! Good luck let me know how it goes please 🙏🏻

[@icurip]

What? Really? All these years I've been loosening the tensioner and resetting all shafts. About to fix a PT Cruiser that jumped time on one cam. Dude, this trick is awesome! Thanks for sharing!

[@EasyFixShaun]

Glad I could help 😃😃

[@godfirst6880]

I got a 98 Honda CRV, and my timing belt broke. I installed a NEW timing belt afterwards, and everything started up fine, and test drove it. But I noticed I was off by ONE tooth on one of my camshafts. Would this method work in this situation?

[@EasyFixShaun]

Yup the basic method will work on pretty much any belt. Just need to make sure you can see every timing mark on every sprocket. You want to be able to clearly plan your tool insertion and pulley direction of rotation. There also can be no obstructions so the tool can pass by as it goes around the sprocket😃🔧

[@jordijusticia9084]

El truco me ha ayudado mucho, gracias por compartirlo.

[@EasyFixShaun]

¡No hay problema! ¡Encantado de ayudar! Lo he usado innumerables veces para ahorrar tiempo y energía 😃🔧

[@markhuyette8509]

Sorry to disappoint you your tip will not work on my 2005 Honda Pilot 3.5L engine because the cam gears over top of them have a housing over top of them that the belt goes through tried you trick on the rear camshaft and it gets stuck and will not turn through their my luck thank you wish It worked for but I have no luck that's why It jumped a tooth have a blessed day today 🙏

[@EasyFixShaun]

Sorry you are having trouble. Those motors can be hard to line up and the rear cam is very sharp and can cut you if you try to hold it while lining up the marks. That is the motor I use it on the most. So because of that I put the belt on, line up all marks except that cam. Then I use tension the belt and use the trick to fix the timing. It's way fast. Sometimes you need to get creative and line up one cam on any given motor that has a cover in the way, use the trick on the other cam and be strategic. Sorry it didn't work for you.

[@hardknoxblount]

That lip over top of the cam gear is probably just the valve cover. I bet you could loosen your valve cover and lift it up fairly easily.

[@EasyFixShaun]

@@hardknoxblount Yup great tip! If it is plastic it can be flex tested to see if it has enough give for the tool to pass. Works great if there's enough flex. If aluminum or steel metal usually not gonna flex 😃

[@markhuyette8509]

You need to look how the Honda Pilot engine is made out to take a it off you got to take the timing gear off but I took a. 150 long screw and used a rotary tool and made a pin it went across the cam gear and it worked thank for your hard work making videos and have a blessed day today 🙏

[@EasyFixShaun]

Great tip! You too 😃

[@97warlock]

im wondering ....... Would a smooth steel Pin about the same thickness work & not be so abrasive on the belt. lots of tension on that little bit and it has angles. Just seems the smooth "rod" or steel pin may work also & not risk any scratching etc.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Yes that work great! I have never had any problems with the tool i used, it was the right size so that's what I have always used. If i had a nice pin the same size i would have used that also 😀

[@97warlock]

cool. thanx. @@EasyFixShaun

[@EasyFixShaun]

@@97warlock Ya Good luck! What kinda motor do you have?

[@97warlock]

07 Hyundai 1.6 ... I xcant get the CS bolt out, 88 hrs done it all with what I have. Bumped the starter toa point I dont wanna screwup or wear out my starter, but still cant get the 108.5 torgue Bolt out. .... So, I MAY pull the timing covers off & visually inspect the belt & leave it at that. In other words this timing belt job is winning. @@EasyFixShaun

[@EasyFixShaun]

Oh wow. Some crank bolts "stick" really bad. I haven't serviced a Hyundai like you have. But i have done lots of Hondas. Hondas are known for sticking like that also. Incredibly difficult! They stick and it takes the biggest bar or impact i have to get them loosened. Have you checked and searched youtube and forums to find info if its common?

[@Ckellertwin]

This is the best... amazing! Thanks best friend!

[@EasyFixShaun]

You no problem! 😀😀

[@MrJwolf989]

i COULD KISS YOU! I WILL KISS YOU

[@EasyFixShaun]

😘

[@foresterlady448]

Never thought this could be this easy! GENIUS!

[@EasyFixShaun]

It's not bad! Thank you so much 😀🔧

[@SubaruJeff444]

I am so glad you shared this information. It save me a huge amount of time and stress. You're the Best. thank you

[@EasyFixShaun]

No problem. Fun trick 😀😀

[@nxesr]

Bro you are fricking awesome. I'm timing my 1987 MK2 Scirocco 8 valve GTX 1.8 injection, engine code DX UK. I've been stuck with the camshaft pulley for ages always a tooth out. So using your trick I won't need to remove my timing belt at all? Just insert the little tool in and rotate. I have a plastic cover on top behind the cam sprocket. There is an arrow pointing downwards. Everytime I tension the belt the fricking cam sprocket moves almost one tooth and the arrow ends up on the sidewall of following tooth. Of course I need the downward arrow in the middle of the groove and not the sidewall. Basically it's a tooth out.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thanks man. Yup you should be able to move the timing one tooth in either direction with the belt properly tensioned. Should work easily for you as long as there is clearance around the cover for the tool 😃🔧

[@gmanchannel7]

How to crimp your belt

[@EasyFixShaun]

Never Happened Yet..

[@Armurp01]

About to do my 2002 Chrysler 300M is And this was my biggest worry with timing once Tension is applied....this is perfect. Thanks

[@EasyFixShaun]

No problem. Glad to help 😃😃

[@dylangrizzle1594]

You are my hero!!! Thank you so much for this amazing old school how to!!! Complete lifesaver!!!🤘🏼

[@EasyFixShaun]

Dude! So welcome! Thanks a lot for the appreciation 😃😃

[@bofuks27]

This is awesome thank you for your knowledge!

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thanks a lot! Thanks for your comment glad to help😀🔧

[@DalesMichael]

Thank you man you’re a lifesaver. saved me hours of pulling the timing cover back off. Btw it also works on a timing chain on a VW tsi. my intake cam was off 1 tooth and i did this and now it’s lines up perfectly

[@EasyFixShaun]

You are a lifesaver! Thanks for letting me know it worked and what vehicle you are working on. Awsome man! 😀😀

[@דודקליין-ו8י]

Wwwwoooooowwwww😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍🥳🥳🥳🥳

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thanks! 😃😃

[@errolhibbert6976]

Thank you my brother I just do my Volvo S40 t5 2007 timing and it was missing and I watch your video and it works Thank you

[@EasyFixShaun]

No way! You are very welcome. Nice work 😃😃

[@dc5723]

Wow cool trick! I'm getting to work on the leaking valve cover gasket and spark plug tube seals on a 2005 Toyota Avalon. Did bank 2 last year but bank 1 is a PITA. Have to remove the wiper arms, windshield cowl, intake air surge tank to get to it. Next after that is the 1993 Toyota 4x4 pickup with a moaning power steering pump and steering starting to get hard. Thanks for the videos!

[@EasyFixShaun]

Wow lots of projects! Keep up the good work. No problem, i and glad you are liking them 😀🔧

[@IchNachtLiebe]

I might just try this. I do all of my own repairs but i'd still call myself a layman mechanic. Just took apart the front end of my engine to change out a water pump. Even though i was careful with all the timing it looks like the marks are slightly off. Been scared to put it all back together if it's off and don't want to have to reremove anything to get back to the belt.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Nice! I always shoot for perfect timing during assembly. On the occasion that timing is off a tooth, this trick makes fixing a breeze usually. Good luck on your project 😃🔧

[@noel5ilv3rlake]

This can be my saving grace, I’m not a mechanic but THE TB thing is pretty delicate as it will be my first “TIME DO”. Because no body will be believed that I don’t replace the TB yet on my 20 years old plus 200K mark, luckily the car is still fine now but on the verge 😅 soon I MUST ! Thank you for the great VID

[@EasyFixShaun]

No problem. Good luck with your project 😀🔧

[@richardstacey4134]

THANK YOU after new belt installed--engine code off a tooth could not break loose crank nut even with oil on thread from install 1 day before. used your method worked 1st time-exellent clear instructions. my blood pressure when back to normal

[@EasyFixShaun]

Outstanding, I am glad it helped you out. I am glad you are ok now! I am surprised more of us mechanics don't have heart attacks and strokes on the job. Brutal conditions and always having to work under pressure. That crank bolt must be a honda huh?

[@BillRobello]

OMG. Doing timing now on a 2004 Chrysler Pacifica and the right camshaft is off one tooth so gonna try it now. Thanks!!!

[@EasyFixShaun]

😃🤌

[@soyoustartedwatching]

My first timing belt change and I forgot to check the alignment under tension. After 14 hours of grinding away in the garage, this saved me undoing it all just to get access to it all again.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thank you!!! So glad i could help 😀😀

[@maurabbit]

Hey, you are a genius buddy, am just doing my belt, and this will saves me lots of frustation, thanks so much.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Glad to help! I hope it works good for you 🎯

[@jcmurr2669]

This was a video that saved me from losing my mind. I have found many vids that are just a step above. However this one is so good I wonder if i would have shared this priceless rare gem of a tip. Thank you SO much!!

[@EasyFixShaun]

😀😀 no problem. Glad to help!

[@kevinoneill41]

I don't know when I will need this trick. Next time I change my belt I hope I retain this information 👍

[@EasyFixShaun]

Please do! worth its weight in gold to us belt changers 😀

[@victorromero2712]

How do you determine which sprocket you need to adjust? Do yo align intake and exhaust sprocket and then use this tool on the crankshaft sprocket? Or do you align crankshaft sprocket and exhaust pulley and then use this tool to move intake sprocket? Or either way works?

[@EasyFixShaun]

To make the trick work you need an understanding of where the timing marks are. Usually you will always need to remove the timing covers to find them. The trick works when off by any amount of teeth, but i would not recommend it for anything off more than 2 teeth or more. Engine damage can occur most times if you are that far off and try to adjust and accidentally go even further off by another tooth (total of three). I hope that helps😀🔧

[@Allen-bm6tz]

Great tip. thanks! I really enjoy your content! Is it ok to spin the engine backwards? I thought there was a con to that? Maybe you're not supposed to spin it backwards too much because it could cause a skip?

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thanks a lot! Usually spinning it the direction it is supposed to spin it will be much less likely to skip a tooth. But when doing the trick sometimes you need to go backwards. Shouldn't hurt anything but go slow to be safe. With tension on the belt and going slow its very unlikely to skip 😀🔧

[@WRATHUSA]

@@EasyFixShaun could you explain what is the proper direction to turn the moto? How do you determine from what position what the clockwise in counterclockwise rotation is. It gets to be very ambiguous when you don't know the point of reference. The manuals don't have arrows indicating clockwise, but from what position of reference? what is the easy rule?

[@EasyFixShaun]

No problem. Generally speaking you want to always spin the motor in its normal direction of rotation. That helps the belt to not skip a tooth because the tensioner is designed to keep it tight mainly in one rotational direction. It does keep it tight in the opposite direction but skips can occur. Generally speaking most engines will spin clockwise when looking at them from the front. The trick is designed to save you time if you accidentally time it wrong and are off a tooth. You can move a mark one tooth at a time if it is a belt system (not a chain) and the is room for the tool to pass around the pulley. The marks will move one tooth towards the tool. You would then need to wind the tool into the belt/sprocket from that perspective 😀🔧

[@tylerkrasavage5656]

Holy shit. This saved me and fixed my belt when it was throwing a cam correlation code. I owe you a beer. Message me

[@EasyFixShaun]

No charge! Glad to help out 😃🔧

[@Edwin_Nani]

Great Video! 🏆 So it won't work if you more than 2 teeth off?

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thank you! It will work for an unlimited amount of teeth in either direction for you. I just think generally speaking 1 or 2 teeth is a safe amount on most motors. More than that, piston to valve contact can happen. I tested it on the particular motor I was testing and 4 teeth off I made contact. So you just need to be careful 😃

[@Edwin_Nani]

Much appreciated! 👍

[@EasyFixShaun]

No prob! Good luck with your project 😃

[@carlospinales4312]

I cant thank you enough for taking the extra time and effort of showing what other line the left cam shaft aligns with besides the cover, i got a 2009 Subaru Forester on Facebook market place with 89k miles on it, when i changed the timing belt i realized the left cam shaft cover was completely chewed off, so i had no other reference besides your video to make sure i lined up the marks for the right alignment.

[@EasyFixShaun]

No problem! I am happy you got it sorted out 😀

[@NURsMec]

Thanks for this video. I learned a new tricks. I just subscribed your channel

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thanks! I love tricks! More coming 😀😀

[@InsaneDzns]

you are a savior my friend, thank you. i just did my frist timing belt job at home DIY and after releasing the tensioner i was a few teeth off of TDC. the sprocket trick saved my life!

[@EasyFixShaun]

Glad it helped 😀😀

[@Carlosmtz57]

So I just got done doing the timing belt on my wife’s 2016 Honda pilot and it runs and does not have any codes pop up. I think I am getting bad MPG and think I feel a delay when accelerating sometimes but runs smooth after. I have a feeling that the left came may have not been completely lined up since it was hard to see and a pain. You think this might work to move it slightly to the right to get it lineup better? Thanks in advance man

[@EasyFixShaun]

Yup! That is one of my favorite motors to use it on because of that back cam. In fact I slap the belt on and fix with the trick after. Sometimes im off by a couple teeth. I tried to get it perfect one time without the trick by holding that back cam and its sharp! I sliced my hand open pretty bad. Never again 😀

[@Carlosmtz57]

@@EasyFixShaun man thank you so much and sorry to hear about the hand. You think I am good driving the car around this way as I am kinda in a time crunch as I have to drive out of town. I also wanted to ask if you have to remove the serpentine belt and crankshaft or can you do this by just removing the timing covers ?

[@Carlosmtz57]

@@EasyFixShaun and what’s even funnier is that both my hands and arms got cut up doing this timing belt and water pump for two days lol

[@EasyFixShaun]

Usually the covers should come off. I don't know if you can do it any other way. You might be able to though!!maybe you can get creative and find a way. Also might be faster to pull covers. Ive never tried it with just the cam covers off. If there's room it's doable. I wouldn't drive it that way to be safe. Around the block you are probably ok. But i would t take any trips. I would rent a car and let yours sit until you can get to it. 😀

[@EasyFixShaun]

Yes the Hondas and some others are extremely sharp like sheet metal which makes the trick extra Awsome to fix one or two tooth off mistakes and keep hands clear 😀😀

[@steventhorkelsen6478]

What’s the original way of doing this???? Take belt off and adjust pulley one tooth and reinstall belt?

[@EasyFixShaun]

Correct 😀

[@steventhorkelsen6478]

@@EasyFixShaun I did that it it jumped a tooth again? Any reason why? I’m trying my hardest to get the belt tight as possible when I put it back on?

[@EasyFixShaun]

If the belt is ok probably a bad tensioner is where I would start to look. Could even be a loose bad bearing on an idler pulley also. I have seen that cause a belt to jump time also. They can be sneaky loose but make no noise sometimes. I like to spin every pulley by hand that the belt runs on to double check. Let me know what you find 😃😃

[@steventhorkelsen6478]

@@EasyFixShaun all are brand new? Could one still be bad?

[@EasyFixShaun]

When I do the trick I am feeling for compression and compensating for that pressure by slowly turning. Some engines are different than others, but generally going slow is best and works great. Sorry for the delay. Did you get yours figured out?

[@haymic1]

Bloody hell spent hours last night on a ford probe, belt off 5 times, spent 30 minutes with your method and it worked. 😊

[@EasyFixShaun]

No way! That is awsome 😃😃

[@chrisevans6401]

i did my v6 prado and every time i released the tensioner the bottom crack would always be out after many trys i gave up i am going to try this now. thanks mate awesome work

[@EasyFixShaun]

Sorry to hear that. Some systems characteristically are more of a pain than others for sure. If you have clearance the trick can be a game changer. Good luck, I hope it helps you out 😃🔧

[@derekwhitehead2779]

Easiest way to tighten crankshaft pulley bolt so I can use this while needing to turn ccw? So it doesn't just lose bolt

[@EasyFixShaun]

You could try turning any of the sprocket bolts that are tight. Camshaft or Crankshaft. Crankshaft is always best but I have used them all 😃🔧

[@raneshsharma9141]

Crazy awesome trick had trouble lining up a VW engine timing marks this trick worked thanks for sharing

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thanks!! Glad it helped out 😃😃

[@greg23842384]

Will this not mess my spring loaded tensioner? My belt seems to be more lose now and dont run true on cam pulley

[@EasyFixShaun]

A properly functioning belt system has enough belt deflection to accommodate the trick. A spring or hydraulic tensioner shouldn't matter but it's hard to say. You may need to reset the spring tension depending on your set up. The belt should have curbs on select pulleys in the system to help it track properly. Does the belt seem like it's falling off or could fall off? What year make model engine are you working on?

[@greg23842384]

@@EasyFixShaun pulleys have no curbs and are slightly wider then belt. It only dance around 3mm acros the pulley width so it will not come off. I will keep using it as it is just leave cover off for now to check if its not getting any worse. Engine is from fiat 500 1.2.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Ok. Are there any curbs on the camshaft and crank sprocket? Usually they will put them there if they aren't anywhere else. There should be some somewhere on both sides of the belt. Be careful with the covers off. That is actually how I discovered the trick. Debris went into the belt and changed the timing 😀🔧

[@greg23842384]

@Easy Fix they may be some curbs on waterpump pulley i need to double check later. Thanks for the advice about debris I have only top cover off so chances are small that anything will get in there

[@EasyFixShaun]

no problem 😃

[@christophercollins3460]

This is so cleaver, best timing belt trick. I was glad to have found this. Thank you for sharing this.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thanks man really appreciate that! No problem glad to help😀🔧

[@mchaudry9811]

Will this work for a timing chain as well? Holding a screwdriver in the pulley and chain

[@EasyFixShaun]

I am not sure, never tried it. I would guess it probably would not work. The physics of the belt stretching to jump teeth one tooth wouldn't be the same as a chain. If you try it let me know how if it worked 😀🔧

[@chrisjasinskirealtor8928]

Much appreciated my friend , I will not tell you how long I fussed with it. Will definitely not forget this invaluable trick.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Awesome! Im glad it worked for you and helped you out😀🔧

[@Verwoodtransportation]

Wow man! I can’t wait until sun up, you just knocked all the intimidation out of this job. Thanks

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thank you! Necessity is the mother of invention 😃🔧

[@hipolitovalladaresmartinez8634]

Muchas gracias por el contenido del video, me fue muy útil. Recibe un cordial saludo y abrazo fraterno desde el bello Puerto de Tampico Tamaulipas México. Bendiciones 🙏

[@EasyFixShaun]

No hay problema, encantado de ayudar! Espero que tu proyecto haya salido bien 😃🔧

[@carlie.b]

This deserves a "SUBSCRIBE" and a Thank You for sure.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thank you! Much appreciated!!

[@Lujawful]

Thanks! This worked on my Honda Ridgeline even though there is a metal guide hanging over the belt that gets in the way. I had to move the bit half off the belt but it still worked for me. Saved me a TON of time!

[@EasyFixShaun]

Outstanding! I am glad it worked for you. I had a passport recently that required it also. Worked great! Especially with the Hondas, they can slice your hand badly when the cam sprocket moves and slips up top. I have had it happen. Have you or anyone else experienced that?

[@SilverloafGolf]

Well if this video doesn't deserve all the likes I don't know what does. Very cool trick! Thanks for this!!

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thanks a lot! Im so glad you liked it. Much appreciated 😀🔧

[@SilverloafGolf]

@@EasyFixShaun I like it so much I'll try it tomorrow haha, I think I'm off a tooth with a timing belt I installed yesterday. There were 2 marks side by side on the crank so I had to give it a best guess as to which one seemed to line up better at TDC, guess I picked wrong 😄 so I'll confirm TDC and then check the cam gear mark, adjust it using this trick 👍

[@skip741x3]

Incredible time saving tip bro! is there any possible stress or damage to the belt from placing that bit under there? i mean the crease in the belt while the bit is in place? harmful at all? o ther than that, its genius

[@EasyFixShaun]

Thank you! I have done it hundreds of times like in the video and never had a belt problem. Rubber belts flex plus it is long enough there is plenty of length for deflection and that helps. I have had success with both hydraulic tensioner style belts and fixed Mount belts. Always be careful, but both styles should work great😀🔧

[@BobJonesDadmech]

Slick fix. ThNkz

[@EasyFixShaun]

😃😃

[@dwphillips42]

Excellent video. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and taking time and explaining in detail.

[@EasyFixShaun]

My pleasure!

[@markw8139]

2003 miata(mx5) its actually 2nd hand..Felt a tiny bit underpowered so asked garage to check the timing .

[@EasyFixShaun]

Nice! I hope you got it all sorted out 😃

[@javidgunraj1500]

Its ok the rotate engine backwards? Even if its interference?

[@EasyFixShaun]

no guarantees on that.

[@OCHawgy]

Thank you very much for making this video! I need to shift a cam gear one tooth and this saved me a lot of time and effort.

[@EasyFixShaun]

You're welcome! What kind of motor?

[@mydeevergeldedios41]

Thank you so much for I used your great engineering idea to time my l4 honda civic back to top dead center. My timing belt jumped 1 tooth when i replaced it. Your excellent technique worked and prevented me from disassembling timing belt.

[@EasyFixShaun]

Awsome! I'm glad it helped you. I use it for the same purpose all the time😀🔧

[@popeantichrist8847]

Move your cam forward one tooth and your mpg will go up as well as your power.