Honda Timing Belt 3.5 J35 - Pilot, Odyssey, Ridgeline

In this video come along as I replace the timing belt, water pump, idler and tensioner on this 2008 Honda Pilot with a "J35" engine. This application may apply to many Honda and Acura models with the J35 engine such as the Ridgeline Pilot and the Odyssey. Although there are slight differences I find they are all very similar.
Socket: Lisle 77080 - 19 mm Harmonic Balancer Socket
Pulley Holding Tool - Lisle 77260 - Honda/Acura Harmonic Balancer Pulley Damper Holding Tool
Reversible Ratchet with Adjustable Handle (Quick Release) - www.toptul.com/...
Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of South Main Auto Repair, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. South Main Auto Repair assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. South Main Auto Repair recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of South Main Auto Repair, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not South Main Auto Repair.

[@erniedeguzman9720]

Hey Eric! Thank you for doing what you are doing. I was able to do this very same job to my pastor's 2004 Honda Pilot. The timing belt broke and we were not sure if the engine is still good. Honda dealers and local garage were asking for too much money and no guarantees. So just by watching your videos, I got a leakdown tester from OTC and all the cylinders were relatively 5% leakdown. Then, using this video, I was able to replace the timing belt and the car fired up and ran fine. I never had thw courage to work on timing belts, but this video did it for me. If I ever go up to Niagara Falls, I will certainly stop by your shop and perhaps have a pucture with you and Mrs. O. You are a really good man. God bless you and your family.

[@davisjames8484]

Good job Mr Guzman

[@bsdubois]

I imagine the Reverend was pleased!

[@richb5478]

Same here I never had the courage to do a timing belt either until I watch this video I have a 2010 Honda Odyssey with the J 35A6 engine. Eric is as good as it gets I believe.

[@samuelsholder2789]

i agree i man i saved over 300 dollars doing the job myself, even tho it took about 12 hours that's almost 30 a hr thats good money, I also got to buy more tools

[@samuelsholder2789]

@@richb5478 i agree man timing belts on a non-interference engine can b nervewracking, the crankbolts are also cursed by the devil

[@Thomas_jefferson69]

7 years ago, you were like a shop teacher. Now you are an entertainer. Love the show.

[@1auriculatus]

Did the job on my 2008 Ridgeline yesterday (109 k miles). First off Eric, your video is absolutely amazing and I took six pages of step by step notes and watched the video about four times! I was pleased to see that I had bought (due to Ridgeline forum research) the same Aisin kit you used. It took 6 1/2 hrs total including a good hour that was wasted trying to get the 19mm bolt off of the crank shaft. Even after having put penetrating oil on the bolt three times starting a week before doing the work, and using that fat socket and a 500 ft lbs impact wrench with 125 psi, the bolt just sat there and laughed at me. After an hour of messing with it, I used the true caveman "breaker bar under lower control arm" and bumped the engine....from then on it was smooth sailing! The one thing I did in addition before cutting the timing belt was to add three paint marks to the old belt, two TDC lines for the cam gears and I marked a tooth on the belt and corresponding place between cogs on the crank gear. Then after cutting the belt, I transferred these marks to the new belt....then fed the new belt as you showed very tightly from crank gear to front cam around idler. What I considered "no slack" ended up one tooth off on the front cam gear and two teeth off on the back cam gear. Fortunately having transferred the marks onto the new belt made this very clear and it took some healthy tugging to remove the remaining "slack" but after a couple of minutes the belt was on in the same position as the old one. I would highly recommend to mark the old belt on all three gears and transfer these marks to the new belt....it is then virtually impossible to screw this up. Again, I cannot thank you enough for this great video!!

[@davisjames8484]

Great job proud of you good man

[@joec96]

How long did it take you? I'm super nervous about messing up, getting ready to do my MDX. What was the hardest part for you? And any advice about what part i should be especially mindful of?

[@iknowgood2403]

What was the part number for the kit? And name ty.

[@MarkyDGFX]

Joe C MDX is this same a ridgeline only thing that can be hard about this job is getting the crank bolt off, and maybe sliding the new timing belt on. If you done these enough you could do it in about 40 minutes even though the job pays 6 hours you’ll also want to grab a small bottle of power steering fluid just to top off fluid reservoir.

[@JohnsonT2724]

Joe C Read the first sentence in the second paragraph

[@brucemoe9180]

I have an '08 Ridgeline that needed a timing belt/water pump job (100K mi). Watched your video along with those of your competitors (Eric, the Car Guy, Repair Geek, et al) and decided to follow your tutelage.. Having 25 years as a vehicle mechanic (in the Jurassic Age), I decided to perform the service myself!! Followed your instructions religiously (plus a few expletives which will remain nameless) except that I removed the upper motor mount in one piece. Took me a couple of days and donated a small amount of blood and discovered that timing gears would make great knives with which to filet my fingers. Saved me at least $1,000 and up to $1500 over taking it to a dealership. Your videos are the best... My Hondoo and I thank you!!

[@DreaminAccord]

Sat here with my cup of coffee and watched the entire video. Dude, you're awesome!! That was one of the best TB / WP videos I have ever seen. We need more honest, detail oriented private mechanics like you in this world! Kudos and keep up the great work.

[@SouthMainAuto]

+DreaminAccord cool!glad u liked it!

[@samuelsholder2789]

every city could use a south main auto man, seems like a very honest dude that chargest a fair price and tries to help ppl out

[@570jj]

In the past 2 months, I used this video plus the FSM to do the timing belt job on a 2005 Honda Pilot and 2012 Honda Pilot. The video was extremely helpful - thanks for taking the time to make it, and for the helpful commentary!

[@luisgarcia395860638]

Words will not be enough to express my gratitude. 2005 Pilot. Sir, you have just saved me much coin. I followed your video, step by step, even when we had to backtrack (and of course, the theme of the day), and I can sincerely say that you, my friend, are THE KING of all DIY automotive. As I am typing this, my Pilot is humming in the background on this cold New Years eve. With new timing belt, water pump, idler pulleys and tensioner for timing belt, new tesioner and idler for serpentine belt, new serpentine belt and numerous new bolts (rust and such). BECAUSE OF you! THANK YOU!!!!! This machine has registered 215,000 miles. EVERYTHING on it still works like new. Navigation, Heated seats, power everything, A/C, everything! THANKS to YOU! I think I can make her go another 100K!!! Thank you, Eric! YOU DA MAN!

[@SouthMainAuto]

Glad it worked out ;)

[@sthpawil]

Great video. I used it to successfully service a 2007 Honda Odyssey EX... thank you! One suggestion for the novices like me: As Eric showed us, mark the existing timing belt with a paint pen at the TDC location on both the front and rear camshafts. Also mark the side of the belt on the bottom tooth of the crankshaft. After cutting off the old belt, transfer these marks to your new belt. When you install the new belt, you can use these marks to ensure that you have the belt installed properly. It is very easy to be off one tooth on the rear camshaft when installing the timing belt because it is very tight and you have to stretch it a little to get it on.

[@daniels98]

I am going to be doing this exact repair on my own vehicle in the next week. It is an amazing thing being able to go online and watch ahead of time what the actual procedures are to do the job. I am no dummy being a mechanical engineer but it is a great advantage seeing it in action. This is one of the best repair videos I have seen so far. I hate watching a video where I am left figuring out a step that was not shown, this was complete with all the intricacies relayed. Anyone who could possibly give a thumbs down is clueless! Thank you for the video. I am planning on changing the cam seals, crank seal, and oil pump seal while I am in there. I would have loved to see these also on video.

[@SouthMainAuto]

I have to be honest I work on a ton of Honda's and I have yet to see a cam or crank seal leak at or under 200k on the 3.5's I mean do as you like I would definitely be buying OEM seals. :) Good luck on the repairs Dan!

[@sonofmaniam]

Daniel S, I picked up the OEM cam seals before tearing into this job as well. Because I had seen a few tutorials/videos warning about them. Certainly this would be the time to address them. However, when I opened up my 120K+ miles accord, the cam seals were fine. So I didn't mess with them. And honestly, even if there had been evidence of a -tiny- amount of seepage from the seals, I might have just left them as well instead of disturbing them. Good luck with the job!

[@bobobrazil1973]

do you know if a Honda odyssy 3.5 will work in a mdx suv?

[@samuelsholder2789]

@@SouthMainAuto that's some good killer advice. I skipped the cam and crank seals cause m car has around 50k, will definetly consider it next timing belt job tho

[@missionimpossible77]

I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed watching your video. I have a 2014 Ridgeline with 74k miles and I was debating on replacing the timing belt since I've never replaced one, but after watching your video, it's given me the courage to do it. Thank you for taking the time out and providing and explaining your step by step how to videos. God Bless you Bro.

[@davidoliver6597]

did you do your timing belt? If so, how did it turn out?

[@sonofmaniam]

I love these videos! My first BIG job was this very job. Before this job, I had only done brakes and oil changes (basic maintenance) Did it on a 2003 Honda Accord (V6). I was getting quotes in the $1000-$2000 range. So I decided to make it my first major investment in my own work. I bought about $400 in parts (same kit shown in this video, plus a few things), and about $600 in tools (I figured my budget was about what I would spend at a shop). It was a hard job for a newbie, took me about 10 hours (but I was being very careful and slow). Job went perfect. Because of that job, I now have a MUCH better tool collection, and have a ton of other work since. I won't name names, but another popular youtube car guy had a nice video for sale that covered the entire job from start to finish for about $15. So I bought it and watched many times before starting the job. My Accord didn't have nearly as much room on the front of the motor as this vehicle. So the entire job was made such a pain. Used a mirror a lot. Had to remove 2 motor mounts and shift the motor up to get access to everything. Most importantly, the job was a big confidence booster, and it was my first big step towards taking on bigger more challenging jobs, with more appropriate tools at my disposal.

[@reweydewy]

The Honda dealer I work for charges 695 I don't get the 1k or 2k quotes. The accords of that era are actually easy compared to newer pilots and ridgelines.

[@sonofmaniam]

reweydewy must be a different vehicle. The parts alone are almost that much through the dealership.

[@twokgti]

a 98 civic maybe...

[@sonofmaniam]

Considering the labor rate in this region is hovering around 100/hr, and then mark-up on parts, there is nobody here that would touch $599. Perhaps an independent somewhere, but I wouldn't take my vehicle to most of them around here. But it doesn't matter anymore, I do all my own work now. (although I still think it would be cool to visit SMA to have some work done on my Jeep, just to say I went there!)

[@expertmax32]

EricTheCarGuy?

[@flyingTAC01]

Bought that high mass 19mm and the crank bolt still wouldn't budge. Hit it with PB blaster, waited 24 hours and it buzzed off after about 90 seconds of hitting it with my harbor freight impact that says 1050ft-lbs of break away torque. 2 days of stress over the dang crank bolt. Thanks for the video, saved me over a grand and I know it was done right!

[@Byu50]

03/25/2019 Just completed a Timing belt job on my 03 Odyssey. Everything went smoothly. With a KZbin and your video its like having you as a personal instructor. You know how happy I am right now. Just wanted to reach out to you and give you a big thank you 🙏. Just subscribe.

[@ryanrutten7778]

Been 7 years since I've done this but it's time to do again so I watched as a refresher. I've done KZbin videos, I've done mechanic work. But never both. Hats off to the guys that do, and do a pretty good job.

[@Steveshiflet]

Thank you very much for taking the time to make this video. If you were in my neck of the woods, I would just bring my Ridgeline to you for this job (or any of my vehicles for that matter). I appreciate how clean your shop is and how thorough you are with the process. We need more mechanics like you.

[@aaronwagner1278]

Just finished the timing belt on my '04 Pilot. Thanks to you and my good friend, Nader, the job was done in a solid day. We enjoyed (almost) every minute of it. (We forgot that the washer goes on the crank before the lower housing...which set us back an hour or so.) Well done. We really appreciate what you do.

[@williamgleaves1954]

Wow. Honda really puts thought into their stuff. Even where no one would *almost* never see it.

[@anglegrinder4630]

Yea aging doesn't help either the AMT of corrosion on aluminum is crazy, solenoids are pure rust..Once you start lookin there are sensors switches and solenoids EVERYWHERE,good thing I cleared all my bs codes

[@edwinjlewis7405]

Eric - O. Thanks for this video it has helped me to changed the complete timing kit in my 08 Honda Inspire 3.5 v-6 Your honesty in explaining and demonstrating the true process is greatly appreciated. I had an annoying noise at cold start up, I did some research and found out that it was the timing belt tensioner. Common problem for honda v6 I decided to buy the complete timing kit instead of just the timing tensioner alone. I checked with several mechanic and they where giving me a run around, one of them even told me he could not pull the crank bolt. After he had my vehicle for 8 hour's. I purchased a horminacor balance from amazon, heated the crank bolt spray it with wd40 and used my 1/2 breaker bar, extension, 19mm socket and a jack stand and got it pull myself. I'm a plumbing engineering not a mechanic but now because of you I have the know how. Thanks Mr. Eric

[@randyhelgath685]

Eric, your a master. I've used your expertise several other times and each time your attention to detail is incredible, my projects have gone smoothly with no surprises. I can't thank you enough!

[@PitWob]

Just used this video to install the same kit on my 07 Honda Odyssey. Brought my laptop out to the garage and followed step by step. 2 hours after starting, I was 4 minutes into the video. Took me 12 hours total. Most of the time just struggling with old bolts and crap in the way. All turned out well and the van is ready for another 100k. Also watched your power sliding door replacement video which was also very helpful. Thanks a ton! You have saved me over $1000 and a lot of head scratching. Appreciatory valve is wide open.

[@bradburkhalter4082]

Eric, thanks for what you do, great expertise and knowledge. Hopefully it will help some of the young people become interested in mechanics. It’s really a wonderful field.

[@marklilly7197]

Thanks for the demonstration. I just finished my wife's 2013 honda pilot. I used the exact same kit. Runs like a champ. Wife is happy and set for another 100,000 miles. I also changed the radiator fluid while I was in there; along with the serpentine belt. I however could not get that thick socket to break loose that crank bolt. I used 1 inch drive ratchet, extensions, crank shaft holding tool, a cheater bar, cinder block and a jack stand for leverage. I got that sucker off though. I tried 3 different impact guns with no go. The deed is done though. I love watching your channel. Keep up the great work.

[@Michael-fl2hf]

Eric: Thank you so much for taking the time to make this and all of your other videos. I watched this one at least a dozen times before following along on my '06 Odyssey. Runs like a champ! You do a great job of pointing out all the little (big) things. MUCH appreciated. The only thing missing is all of the swearing I found necessary to complete this job.....

[@av8tore71]

I'm a police officer by trade on the weekends I work on airplanes I'm an airframe and PowerPlant mechanic inspector authorization and where was this video 2 years ago when I had to take my Honda Odyssey to the Honda dealership and pay 2500 bucks to get the timing belt changed. Awesome video and thanks for sharing!!

[@mikebundock2785]

Thanks Eric, convinced me to let the pros do it. :)

[@bobadams1696]

I watched your video months ago when I successfully installed a timing belt on a 2012 Accord V6. Now I’m replacing my son’s timing belt on his 2011 Pilot. So, I’m watching again. Content like this is so helpful. I subscribed. Thanks

[@stevecarlin9189]

Great video, listening to it while doing the job on my 2008 odyssey was very helpful. It helped me make sure I did not forget anything. Thank you for putting together a good video especially by somebody that knows what they’re doing.

[@paulsubong]

Thanks to this video, I was able to install the same Aisin timing belt kit on my 2012 Odyssey. The local Honda independent shop quoted me $1,400.00 to do the job. This video really helped me so I decided to become a Patron of this channel. I used the Lisle crank bolt socket and my Milwaukee high torque 1/2 inch impact wrench and the bolt came right off. I discovered that the engine mount was broken so I replaced that as well. The only problem I encountered occurred when installing the timing belt. It was difficult to get the belt positioned on the correct tooth of one of the sprockets. It seemed like it was a half tooth off and I figured that it would settle in. After checking the timing by rotating the the crank two times, one of the cam sprockets was out of position by about 45 degrees. I started panicking because I thought I ruined the engine. After I settled down, I just removed the belt, removed the tensioner and reset the grenade pin, and started over. For some reason, everything lined up easily the second time. When I installed the crank bolt, I tightened it the final 60 degrees with my impact wrench. Is that method acceptable or should I have used the method in the video?

[@charleshanson3770]

I’m a retired mechanic. I have over 30 years experience and it’s about time that somebody said that they were removing bolt with a 10 mm head and not a 10 mm bolt. There is a difference. Thanks

[@JT-jg8le]

a bolt

[@Spanditch]

Eric, I found this video invaluable. Replacing the timing belt isn't a casual thing for the average backyard mechanic. I've been working on cars my whole life (I'm in my 60s) and have collected a lifetime's worth of tools, but have been less excited about crawling around under a vehicle than I was as a teenager. Anyway, the video, as well as the one about adjusting the valves on the Honda 3.5 were both well done and led me straight through to a successful result on both counts. As a side comment, after seeing the Drive Pulley Bolt remover you showed, I had to make one, and it worked as advertised. One reason these jobs take me all day is I wind up having to make the specialty tools you show so I can finish.

[@MichaelSmith-jy9id]

Brilliant job Eric! You are certainly a master mechanic. I have learned a lot from your videos, and this one is no exception. Your patience, knowledge, attention to detail, and camera work are impressive. You have helped me to understand mechanical systems much better and to realize I need a lot more tools. Cheers!

[@michaelcarlson6069]

I replaced the timing belt on my 2005 Honda Pilot today - this video was the perfect preparation. It took me quite a bit longer, but everything went smoothly and it is running great. Thanks Eric! The special crank bolt socket was especially helpful.

[@joec96]

Michael: I have an 05 MDX, will be doing this job soon. Let me know how long it took you. I know i'll be over 5 hours all totaled, but i'll go super slow. Nervous about messing up. What was the hardest part, and anything you can warn me about being difficult?

[@joec96]

@@wilmarbarrick3194 Thanks for the great advise! i did order a thermostat. Won't know about the hoses until i take them off, but they look good. thanks again, looks like this weekend is when i'm doing it.

[@euonymus1980]

I am seriously impressed! Awesome detail, professional, and tons of information. Thank you for putting together such a well made video to help others even while running your business.

[@GeorgeMalonedj]

I have done about 20 V-6 Honda/Acura timing belts and I just sat here and watched this like I have never completed one before! Good details and recording!

[@justin8077]

This video was super helpful to me. Thank you for your time and effort you put into making this. I had serious doubts about doing this repair when the boss brought it in. But this video was easy to follow. Thank you.

[@DeerParkAuto]

Hey Eric...I've beenAutomotive Mechanic for about 35 years now. I just watched this video and some of you others in the past, and I just wanted to say great job!! The way you explain things clearly and thoroughly is great. There were several times you were explaining something and I new exactly what you were about to say before you said it. You explain things a lot like I do when training someone. Keep it simple and not politically correct is the best way. Thanks and keep up the good work!!

[@gzrgldr8288]

Great video. I was able to do my 2012 Honda Pilot due to this video. I was pretty intimidated by it until I found this. Took me much longer as I kept coming back to this for each step and there were a few very minor deviations in the configuration, but for the most part, this was the most thorough. Thanks a lot for this.

[@mariodiy4517]

Thanks. I watched yours and ETCG's video on the Honda 3.5 multiple times. Finished mine last week. Doing so helped me realize it was done once before. The timing was off on the camshafts, mainly on bank 1, even after putting the crank on TDC. The camshafts wouldn't line up perfect. Maybe half a tooth off. So after doing all the work, it definitely idles better, my intermittent p0172 never came back, and replaced my engine mount. Took me 3 days because I ordered my engine mount from Amazon. My local parts store didn't have it in stock at the moment. Hope you had a Merry Christmas with the family. Thanks again for all the information you share!

[@stuzman52]

Very detailed timing belt work Eric with good commentary on every step of the way. I liked how you paused when you took components out or before they went in to see a closer look at them. Good work and as other folks said, the video was good and clear to see what you were doing. Take care...

[@SouthMainAuto]

stuzman52 Thanks Terry. Looking forward to your new one :)

[@jasonbryant6694]

I used this video extensively while replacing the timing belt in our 08 Pilot. I've never done serious engine work before, so I watched the video first before doing the work, ordered the parts and had no issues. This video was fantastic, much better than the Honda service manual (that made no mention of taking off the serpentine belt, motor mount, basically anything outside of the crank pulley and timing covers).

[@dial2fast]

I found your channel this past week and love ALL your videos. Great camera work and instructions. I enjoyed this vid from beginning to end. Cheers!!

[@SouthMainAuto]

dial2fast Glad you enjoy thanks!

[@tabthetech3727]

I’ve watched 85% of videos on this channel. Lot of learning plus fun times with Eric virtually lol

[@sparklander]

My son (who is no mechanic) did the timing belt on 2 Subaru (WRX and Forester). He did a great job, but I think he would enjoy doing this Honda more - he is left handed. Thank you for the great videos!!

[@EXOVCDS]

Eric, congrats on reaching 10k subs! I'm impressed with the amount of videos you are able to post and the detail & depth you dive in with, with regards to commentary / play by play. On top of that, the video editing & replying to posts! Won't be long before you surpass ericthecarguy & briansmobile1 ! Hope your subscribers & viewers realize what it takes to do what you do WHILE running a shop! All the best to you & yours. I might not comment much, but I try to watch as often as I can (usually busy with my own channel) to get tips on tools & non VW / Audi stuff. ;-)

[@SouthMainAuto]

***** Hey Thomas good to hear from you! Yeah it sure does take a lot but I am sure just like you it has just become part of some of the jobs. On the other hand it has made for a late night here and there...

[@andyhuang9759]

Thomas EXOVCDS z

[@CoolAirVw]

Wow! 2 years a go SMA had 10,k subs and now 127k1

[@apllDgrapllD]

South Main Auto Repair i have a question I don’t see in the comments, i did my timing belt yesterday on my 07 Ridgeline and I turned the crank over 6 times to notice my rear cam gear is one tooth off from alignment! Should i worry or take the timing belt back off and realign it?

[@Kez730]

I came across your video when I had to do this job on my 2014 Odyssey (sadly) and I followed this video step by step; literally pausing at each critical step and then completing it. Thanks!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

South Main Auto Repair Even though this video is over an hour I can watch with no problem. I really like the way you go into full detail! Keep up the excellent work.Thank you for taking the time to do the videos. And as others said camera work was fine! stop whining! HAHA! Also where is my t-shirt???? I want to be the 1st to get one.

[@SouthMainAuto]

The Disgruntled Mechanic Glad I can keep your attention :) As far as the shirts you better call here and yell at Vanessa because I put her in charge of it and she takes the whole summer off!?! How do I get that job? BTW Yes you will be the first... only because I knew what you intention was with it hahah

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

South Main Auto Repair If i have the shirt for next year and I go I will wear it! and so you know some of the participants at this years event were speaking of you and your videos and skills very highly I may add.

[@SouthMainAuto]

Ohhhhh reaaallllyyyy..... Nice haha that is good to hear. You pulling my leg?!

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

South Main Auto Repair No leg pulling on either statement. And they were asking if I ever saw your videos. They mentioned you to me not other way around. I told them I was going to be in charge of your 1st meet up! ( now that statement is leg pulling)

[@SouthMainAuto]

Haha I am afraid it might just be me and you at it lol. Better wait till I get a couple more fans :) Oh wait, that means more beer and burgers for us right?

[@haonrolyat]

This saved me after doing my timing belt for a couple weeks since I went on vacation before I could get it done. 2008 Acura Tl Type-S. I ended up stripping my timing tensioner bolt pulley (i'm an idiot and somehow revered that bolt guide that guides the bolt). I borrowed O'Reilly's tool to retap the hole and that fixed the issue. I also when doing the belt, had too much slack by the water pump, the tensioner got rid of that slack by pulling the rear cam forward one tooth, I had to take off the belt and put the pin back in the hydraulic tensioner with a c-clamp. Then I accidently moved the rear cam, ended up using a serpentine belt tensioner tool to help move the rear cam to TDC using the bolt on the rear cam pulley. Anyway, this video was great - thanks for showing how you put things back together, I'd forgotten. I also borrowed the tool for breaking loose the crank bolt from O'Reilly's (they have it on their loan a tool program). I used a breaker bar I got from lowes, it was a 1/2" wratchet with a deep socket with an extension and propped on a jack. I used like a 7 foot pipe on the end of my wratchet and went about 110 degrees to break it loose (don't be scared it should come out). Most of the tools you can get from the loan-a-tool program from Autozone or O'Reilly's. Anyway! God bless sir!

[@brianb8060]

"you gotta support your engine." Come on engine, I believe in you... COME OOONN!!

[@binwan2010]

Just did 2014 Honda Odyssey timing belt over the Veteran's Day weekend in referencing your video all along. After all the work went through and started the engine, the smooth running sound was the best rewards. Thank you for sharing your expertise with us!

[@kyhomegarage3430]

Awesome video Eric. I am going to do this timing belt replacement tomorrow. This video is priceless it will make my job lot easier. Thank you sir 👍👍

[@gni2002]

Mr. O...Thank you for this timing belt DIY tutorial. I did my first timing belt /water pump replacement on my 06 Honda odyssey EX. After viewing this video 100x, mustered confidence and dove right into it. I have all the tools I need, even bought the lisle weighted 19mm crankshaft pulley bolt. Like everyone else, i experienced the infamous "what the freak is holding this bolt so tight". I have the cheater bar, but not enough ground clearance, so I had I did the "engine bump" method to remove the crankshaft bolt off with ease. Nonetheless, because of this video, I was able to navigate in some sequential way and was able to remove and replace the timing belt and water pump......so thank you for this extremely useful video and all other video you produce, I enjoy them all..

[@gni2002]

Ohh and btw, initial timing belt was replaced by Honda at 100k, my van currently has 235km which means I was 135k mile overdue :)

[@KJ4ZQX]

Thanks Eric, Just finished installing this kit on my Ridgeline. It runs great. Couldn't have done it without you.

[@joec96]

How long did it take you. Any advice on what i should watch out for? Never did it, but i want to try on our MDX.

[@dontropepe5929]

I have been a tech for 32 years and this video was as real world as it gets. The only thing I do differently is I line up the timing marks, mark the belt and pulley's like you did, and the crank pulley. Then I mark the new timing belt to match the marks on the old one. Match the marks on the new belt with the marks on the pulley's, and you're in time. Been using this method since the mid 90's. Works every time. Unless the car comes in with broken belt.

[@victorgiraud4254]

Excellent video. It's not easy to film a repair. Your video is awesome resolution and well thought out.

[@larrya703]

Just did my RIdgeline timing belt w/p yesterday thanks to you Eric. Your detailed video saved me me huge. I appreciate it.

[@richardbambenek2601]

Your attention to detail is what sets you apart from Joe Average as well as your wealth of experience.

[@steveboone5450]

After all these years, this is still by far the BEST Honda 3.5 timing belt replacement video on the interwebs (despite your the frequent commentary in the video about being disappointed in the video quality). Thanks for all the great tips and guidance. Anyone doing their own, make darn sure you use a Honda timing belt kit or a very high quality alternative if you can't get the Honda kit for whatever reason. Do NOT under any circumstances use one of the budget aftermarket kits you can find on Amazon, E-bay, and elsewhere (it is not worth the couple hundred $$ you would save upfront). I have heard too many stories of early failure (as in less than a year). Also, always do the full kit and not just the belt -- the idlers, tensioners, and water pump can easily cause a premature failure of a brand new belt. Thanks!

[@robertcale6725]

I didn't know honda was engineered so good. my son brags on his van guess he taught the old man something

[@normt430]

Engineered around it-s weaknesses. No one does timing belts at 100K anymore. And those V6 Honda transmissions...

[@TheOzthewiz]

@@normt430 I agree 100% about the 100k timing belt interval! I have a '15 Escape 1.6L 4-cyl, that has recommended TB change interval at 150kmiles. It currently has 73k, I figure that by the time it's ready for a belt change, there won't be enough vehicle left (Rust) to worry about a timing belt!

[@normt430]

@@TheOzthewiz you won't have a rust problem in a Ford like you would with a Honds or other Japanese. Not unless you have an unrelated scratch that the primer is removed. Didn't know about TB on Ford 1.5/1.6. Looks like they do not water pump at the same time.

[@garyhawkins7403]

Thanks for your step by step instructions. It took me about 15 hours over 3 days to replace the timing belt, pulleys and water pump. Labor estimate from a shop was 5.2 hours for $600, I saved the $600 at an average hourly rate of $40.

[@k.pacificnw02134]

I don't know anything about engines, but I like engine repair videos. I put it on mute, and just watch the man's hands fiddle with things. I'm a....unique lady.

[@diddy0071]

K. PacificNW congrats on the fetish. Nothing wrong.

[@hatfez]

It's good to learn about this stuff, even if you will never attempt to do it yourself. This way, when you bring your vehicle in for repair or service, you have some idea as to what needs to be done. "To be forewarned is to be forearmed"!

[@jenncox2642]

I love watching these as well. I actually like to fix things though so I will try some easy stuff and not let the folks at the shop take advantage of me. I wish everyone in the auto repair industry was as honest and honorable as Eric O. He is definitely a gem.

[@maryreed2280]

He makes it look easy. But it is doable for us ladies. Just will be spending on tools instead of mechanics. And getting dirt under the nails.

[@planegaper]

Men tend to be interested in objects , woman in people, so it's natural for you to try to get a guy to fix the car , instead of getting yer hands dirty..just wired that way.. try changing your viewpoint.. give yer car a name make it an important member of the family.. then commit to getting your hands dirty on something simple at home, spark plugs say... then before you jump into it spread the word to friends and neighbours yer gonna try it, any advice is welcome... you will get respect from the girls for doing it, (you will make it clear yer not looking for a handout, yer going to do it your self) and respect from the guys ,and they will be more than willing to supply you with tools etc for the job.. and it's fun to bond over it, plus, make sure it's done safe..jack stands etc.. in no time you won't be scared to do tougher jobs in your drive way, and gain a few layers of "BULLSHIT ARMOR" from shifty shops that will fleece you dry.. Do it in steps, and you'll realise there no secret to it, it's just logic, common sense, and be maulable to ask for help and learn a bit.. attitude makes a good mechanic.. In conclusion , your car you second biggest investment..it's a member of the family, Spread the word on social media, don't be afraid to ask for help, peeps will step up, guys love to show off their skills and tools.. take notes and pics, so you learn the max about it.. once your car stops being a mystery under the hood.. your relationship with it will be longer , more reliable, and far less expensive...it's too bad more girls don't take it up, but that's changing

[@davidprice2861]

Brilliant demonstration of a quite demanding and time consuming job, Eric's calm, logical and patient methods really come into play here, and he did a great job as usual, including offering many useful tips and tricks..

[@dcrickerson9775]

Great job ! The video was top notch as always. I don't think you could have gotten any better camera angles. Thanks for taking the time to record this job.

[@tommoran2113]

Special Thanks again......Just did a 2005 Honda Odyssey timing belt and water pump, just like the kit you had. All went well, patience is need at certain spots. But boy is that crank bolt tight!!!!! Took and impact and the heavy duty 19mm to get it off. My van had 218k and never had been replaced, the belt was so far stretch out it could keep timed. So glad it didn't break.

[@mhiller5323]

Dude! Thanks so much for taking the time to post this video! So well done and great commentary as you went along. It's videos like this that really help DIYers get er done. Thanks man.

[@marshaljohnson4069]

in case you havent read my last praise of this video my 07 honda odyssey 3.5 it came in VERY helpful I replaced it in 2014 at 100k its at 165k now and runs great still also replaced the serpentine belt and tesioner love your videos

[@collinmac24]

gotta love when you lookup a job and there is an sma video tutorial

[@pauldionne1665]

No doubt about it. Sherlock (Mechanic of Auto) at his elementary best.

[@SewerMonkeys]

Great video and thank you for making it. I just finished replacing my timing belt using the Aisin kit, and the most important thing (echoing many comments here) is to mark the OLD belt at all 3 cog locations (with white marking pen), and then mark it exactly on the NEW belt. Once you have the old belt off, just lay the new belt on top of the old belt, line up the teeth by sliding your fingers along the belts to keep it taut and in-sync, and mark it correspondingly. This will give you hard evidence and the confidence that you have installed your new belt correctly, which is very much needed in this install. The main obstacle from my own install was getting the new belt taut. It really needs to be taut (like a guitar string). At first, I installed the belt same way as the video, starting from the crankshaft, up around the front idler bearing, and through the front camshaft. And no matter how hard I tried I would be a tooth off (by verifying the markings) and there would be slack between the front idler bearing and front camshaft. I spent half an hour cursing trying to get it lined up with no success. My solution was to LOOSEN the front idler bearing (unscrew the installed idler bearing about 1/4 of the way out). It will give about 1/3 inch of play/slack to get your belt and white marks lined up. Rear tensioner bearing not installed. So this time around I started installing the belt at the front camshaft, aligning the white marks lined up, and then under the water pump and then the rear camshaft. Then I guided the belt around the front idler bearing (still loosened) and then down to the crankshaft. All of your white marks should be lined up. If so, get your ratchet and as you start tightening the front idler bearing back up to torque specs... you will see the belt getting guitar string taut all around, except in the rear. At that point install the rear idler, and triple check one last time before pulling the grenade pin on the tensioner. Hope this helps.

[@keepingup2952]

That's really great information. I'm still processing it. I still don't really fathom why you can't just slip the old belt off and put the new one on without having to mark everything. I'm guessing that all the "lining-up" and paint marking is because the timing cogs could move unintendedly while the old belt is off and the new belt isn't on yet. Is that why the "lining-up" and paint mariking ceremony is performed? So you can correct any possible mismovements? I'm asking because I don't yet see how those timing cogs could freely move even if the timing belt is off. Since I must be wrong about that, which timing cog is most likely to spin on it's own without the belt? Thanks for any response.

[@Negentropy369]

They can move on their own from spring pressure in the valves... I think that's what it is. I have read many reports on videos of this job of them moving on their own and it freaking the people out. I think putting the lines on the belt also pets you know that you have the right amount of tautness in the belt between the crank shaft and front cam, and front and back. Since theirs still slack at the back of the belt until you pull the pin on the tensioner, better to know you have it right rather than having to recompress the tensioner, get the spring back in, and do it all again.

[@Negentropy369]

there's* and pin* rather than spring in the last sentence. For some reason there's no edit button on the KZbin mobile site.

[@maryreed2280]

I'm going to apply for a job as a tech and under work experience, I'll put "watched SMA videos".

[@samuelsholder2789]

maybe a lube tech to start lol, i heard Eric O did his first engine rebuilt at age 9 on a dusenberg with no manual

[@williammason7092]

Lol

[@nickieg1992]

Honestly thats more then most so called mechanics have going for them..u s step ahed of the game

[@daltonrubin763]

Hey Mr. O! Thank you for posting this video! Acura quoted me $2,000 for a timing belt job on my TL. The kit only cost me $200 and a Saturday of my time. Thanks again!

[@mikevonkleist6767]

I love this job. It's so much fun. It takes time but I'm happy when I'm done.

[@samuelsholder2789]

i find loosening nuts to be relaxing, also it's great to know how the stuff U use everday works

[@cleej9]

Just knocked this out on my wife's 2005 Honda Pilot and this video was spot on. The only thing I had to do differently was put a breaker bar on the crank bolt and give the starter a bump to break the bolt loose (with the coil packs disconnected). There was no way that sucker was coming off any other way. Big thanks for putting this together!

[@SouthMainAuto]

Good tip on getting the bolt loose!

[@bigblzr9421]

Another great vid. I love doing the Honda v6 t/b. I pull the p/s pump first thing to make room.

[@samuelsholder2789]

that's a pretty good idea when I did the job my hands got all cut up

[@catdaddy61]

One little trick I do, and I wish I had a picture, is when you put the new timing belt back on, before you put the belt tensioner back in place, I use a zip-tie to pull the belt slack out of the way to make getting the timing belt tensioner assembly mounted. Really helpful! Thank you for your great videos!

[@JmanRx81]

OMG that socket for the crank pulley bolt! 🤯

[@TheOzthewiz]

Yeah! Very impressive, and I bet you would be feeling "sticker shock" by the price tag. A GOOD investment for someone like SMAR!

[@mrman3232]

@@TheOzthewiz not to pricey actually. About $25 in Canada from Amazon.

[@frankbonura5710]

It was a pleasure watching an artisan practicing his craft.

[@ceasage]

Amazing video I did my honda odyssey EX watching this video all details torque specs and everything thumbs up 👍thanks!!!!

[@samuelsholder2789]

me too man with old rusty metal and lots of aluminum I'm always worried about stripping something out. I'm really glad harbor freight was able to provide me with affordable torque wrenches for all the drive sizes

[@justincase3880]

I’ve done timing belts on 3 J-35s (01, 02 & 05) .. and still watched your whole video .. nice work …

[@xerxes456]

Your videos are more then great thank you for your patience to do so good videos your camera angels are excellent, you even made me happy explaining about making paint mark on the belt that's why my mark on a chain on a Mercedes engine did not return on the same spot when rotating the engine around made me wonder why it is so I can not understand but now I now that is the way it goes thanks again.

[@SouthMainAuto]

+g johan Glad you enjoy them

[@paulr3660]

Great video. Even if you're not changing the belt yourself, it's informative so you can ask your own mechanic how their process is when they do the work. Plus you having the drops with the bolts is hysterical.

[@Byu50]

You sir doing a great job. I would be very happy if you are in my area. I would rather pay to work on my vehicles. I just could not find a good and honest auto repair shop. Every time I put my car in for repairs they ended up screwing something up. I might have to try to tackle the timing belt job myself. Thank you 🙏 so much for your great video. This by far the best video on Honda Pilot and Odyssey. Just subscribe to your channel.

[@samuelsholder2789]

i feel that man hard to find a good independent shop that U trust, my local honda dealership charges over 600 an axle for fricken brakes, that's highway robbery if u ask me

[@labradormcgraw]

I didn't mind about the camera angles at all - that was a fantastic video! This guy really knows how it's done, and the narration is always top-notch. Just perfect.

[@seeya205]

8:24 I thought it was the dinner bell. You got me excited for minute, Eric!

[@1toppump]

Awesome video! I just completed the 100,000 service to my 2006 Honda Pilot. I followed the video step by step and car is running perfect! Very thorough! My biggest challenge was getting the hidden bolt for the engine mount that is located under the electrical equipment.

[@anti0918]

I'm about to attempt this on my 2006 Accord. Also getting the Aisin kit. So this video was good... TIMING.

[@SouthMainAuto]

anti0918 There ya go! Very similar job.

[@anti0918]

+South Main Auto Repair Well I finished the timing belt kit today. I tried that fat Lisle socket on the crankshaft bolt, but it didn't budge. My impact wrench only does 450 ft-lbs, and I only have a 6 gallon tank, so maybe that was a factor. But I was able to get the bolt off by using a little MAP torch for a couple minutes, with a long pipe on the breaker bar. Re-torquing that thing to 47 ft-lbs PLUS 60 degrees was ridiculous!

[@onlyajeep97]

I see what you did there.

[@troyfall6573]

@@anti0918 I know you replied 3 years ago but I wanted to mention that sometimes the issue with an impact gun can be limited air flow. Impact guns and ratchets usually come with 1/4" standard flow adapters. An impact gun works best if you to replace the adapter with 3/8" high flow adapters. Your couplers will also have to be replaced with high flows units. These can be purchased on Amazon cheaply. I bought the Milton S-217 1/4" NPT V Style Coupler and Plug Kit - 6 Piece for $14. I am also running a 20 gallon oil compressor with 3/8 rubber line. My comment is more for someone who may later watch this video and also have issues with their impact gun performance.

[@garyalford9394]

Like Eric said the Asian kits are good but buying a high Quality water pump separately is a must !

[@jaredb6934]

I'm in need of doing this to my pilot. I'm always impressed with the engineering of my hondas. Great vehicles.

[@ericcorse]

IMO The camera work was great especially compared to other you tube hacks

[@SouthMainAuto]

+Eric Corse Thanks!

[@samuelsholder2789]

eric O definetly puts a lotta work into his filming skills

[@shemrock29]

Excellent video for a one man team Eric, you record your videos with minimal disruptions ,im a self taught mechanic and i learn a lot from watching you work i did my first timing belt on a 1996 Mazda Famila it actually broke the car had to be towed in, thank god the engine wasn't interference so no valves bent and the cause of the breakage was a leaking cam seal .However didn't have same luck with my first car 1984 Nissan sunny 1.5 belt broke bent 4 valves,had to pull the head change valve seals head gasket grind new valves and was good to go car still on the road today .

[@patrickkerr7006]

i really liked this video Eric u are my favourate youtuber by far

[@ontheflylens]

This video alone was enough for me to go out and find a cherry 2006-2008 Honda Pilot to add to our fleet of family vehicles. The video was very helpful in knocking out the timing belt kit on our '10 Ody, just make sure your timing marks don't fall off their marks, thank you for the help on the procedure to line em back up!

[@nicknicu1787]

The SMA video production facility is top notch IMO. I really don't know what you do for lightning,but it's pretty good. What camera are you using? That's pretty good too. I can only think of a GoPro that it's small enough to fit in those spaces. I have tried filming a couple of jobs and that didn't turn out so well,so it's not as easy as it looks. As always doctor,real repairs/explained well,different content/different makes and models. You only miss German makes. I'm gonna start bringing you some. I'm just too lazy to drive 5 hours,but one day... You'll see...once you get hooked on torx bits,Allen and tamper proof triple squares you'll never go back! Lol! Best car repair channel on KZbin! I hope you never sell out! 👍

[@SouthMainAuto]

Nick Nicu Euros = YUCK haha I have a brand new pair of triple squares and I intend to keeping the,m that way haha

[@nicknicu1787]

+South Main Auto Repair Hahaha! You sound like Scotty now. In one of his latest videos he said he saw the BMW parts and roadside assistance using a Toyota instead of a BMW!!! I mean that is unheard of! How low can one go to prove a point?! I'll tell you what : I'll visit you when I'm up there at Watkins Glen to test out my Euro trash. Lol!

[@SouthMainAuto]

OUCH!?! SCOTTY!! Haha geez thanks man. Hey they are all just nuts and bolts right? What time of the year do you go to Watkins? Pretty close to the homestead there..

[@nicknicu1787]

+South Main Auto Repair 43 minutes away from you to be exact. I haven't ran Watkins yet,that's why I'm so looking forward to go. I heard it's a great track! Last I've heard they were repaving it. I'll look into an event with PCA at the end of October if you guys don't get snow by then. Lol!

[@SouthMainAuto]

End of Oct.! Man dunno about snow but that is the start of the rut. I usually become pretty scarce around these parts haha. I suppose I could make a little time for a Euro fan though.

[@mr2cam]

One thing to keep in mind on the 3.5's and even the 3.0's when doing a timing belt, it is always a good idea to adjust the valves at the same time, the exhaust valves are always on the tight side and after doing a timing belt the vehicle can devolope a slight misfire, seen this happen a number of times. We also always replace both cam seals and crank seal, they like to start leaking around 150k, so smart to do them while you have everything apart.

[@TheSavageGarage]

My favourite type of video from you :) great job! Enjoyed this alot

[@sahyhanmanio8956]

Hondacivic2oo1

[@MollydogRadar]

Just did the timing belt, water pump on my 2006 Honda Odyssey after watching your video. Thank you so much. Your video made it a breeze. And I have never changed a timing belt on anything. I bought that 19mm socket and it worked great. Again, thank you.

[@milfordcivic6755]

Eric - can you tell me where to get that adjustable breaker bar/rachet you have?

[@thomaselstad9758]

Fantastic video! Did my Ridgeline yesterday. Had 107000 on it and looking at the belt not a moment too soon. Thanks again for your video.

[@kyden03]

I've always had bad luck with the aftermarket water pumps on Hondas. I've always used OEM on my own, but trying to save people a few bucks and in the end it always bites me in the ass.

[@samuelsholder2789]

that's what most techs seem to think, definetly not a part worth skimping out on, at least if your water pump is timing belt driven

[@DeadEric78]

Watched this a month ago to see how much work the job is... now I'm doing my 2nd one in a week. Thanks for the video, sir.

[@teddybear2123]

very nice and detailed video! Looks like easy DIY! Why do you never wear rubber gloves? Save your hands!

[@wallygoots]

Your video just saved me $500. Same kit as you used. And even with the honda cranky tool, the crank bolt really did need two of us and a big cheater bar! Wish I had that super socket! The rear crank pulley was a pain to align--it would skip past the mark over and over again (engine compression?) and so it took a while to figure out how to get the mark aligned on all pulleys. Finally we figured out what tooth the belt needed to be on and then used the belt to keep it from over-rotating. Total job took 9 hours for two of us, but it was my first job of this kind so I'm pretty excited. Runs great! Again, thanks!

[@bladeproject1]

I had a Chevy corvette with 370000 miles on it. I never had to change the timing belt:) ( Sarcasm emphasized) Cheers!

[@TheRreemo]

I'll be you went through more than one gold chain though! LOL

[@gulliver3644]

Thanks Eric, I had a Honda back in 2002. Great car, the 80k tune up for 800 bucks at the Honda dealer convinced me that Ford or Chevy was less a hassle and cheaper. Lasted just as long and spoke English. Hell, I would never ever own another Honda, especially a Pilot or that pick-up. I’m 73 and have bought or least many, many cars. Ford never disappointed!