More Merc Trace-cort fun... Timing Keeps Jumping...

[ragajungle]

So the new motor, complete with head and head gasket all went in without a hitch... BUT Since then I have had the timing cover off 2x and installed 2 belts, and 1 timing tensioner (from the old motor).

Each time I followed the instructions
PER Chiltons:
-Line up Cam and Crank timing makes to TDC
-Inspect Cam and Crank sprockets for missing/damaged cogs
-Untension Spring tensioner and lock in place with 1/8 drill bit
-Install belt COUNTERCLOCK WISE starting around the Crank
-remove bit and retension the tensioner
-rotate motor 2 full cycles (intake and exhaust strokes) to ensure timing makes are still aligned and belt is taught

Yet still, even after the new tensioner and belt it managed to jump off 19 degrees (Advance) Again.

Has anyone else had this issue?

FYI: 1997 Tracer 2.0L SOHC SPI
Both belts and engines ran great and were timed correctly prior to me botching this up somehow....


Thanks for any insight,
Mike

 

[ragajungle]

for real? I am running out of hair to pull out...

 

[snoranger]

2.0L (VIN P) Engine

1. Unfasten the three nuts and three bolts from the timing belt cover.
2. Remove the cover.
3. Remove the right-hand splash shield and the crankshaft pulley.
Fig. 8: The timing marks on both the camshaft and crankshaft pulleys must be aligned like this before removing or installing the timing belt - 2.0L (VIN P) SOHC engines


4. Align the timing marks as illustrated in the accompanying illustration.
5. Refer to the accompanying illustration and remove the timing belt as follows:
1. Loosen the timing belt tensioner bolt (1).
2. Use an 8mm Allen wrench, and turn the tensioner (2) counterclockwise 1⁄4 turn.
3. Insert a 1⁄8 inch drill bit in the hole (3) to lock the belt tensioner in place.
4. Remove the timing belt (4).
Fig. 9: Remove the timing belt by following these 4 numbered steps (refer to the text for an explanation) - 2.0L (VIN P) SOHC engine


5. Inspect the belt for damage and signs of oil leakage.

To install:

NOTE: Install the timing belt over the sprocket in a counterclockwise direction starting at the crankshaft. Keep the belt span between the crankshaft and camshaft tight when installing the belt over the camshaft.


6. Install the timing belt and remove the drill bit.
7. Tighten the tensioner bolt to 15-22 ft. lbs. (20-30 Nm).
8. Rotate the engine two complete revolutions and make sure the timing marks are aligned.
9. Install the timing belt cover and tighten the nuts and bolts to 71-97 inch lbs. (8-11 Nm).
10. Install the pulley and the bolt. Tighten the bolt to 81-98 ft. lbs. (110-120 Nm).
11. Install the splash shield(s).
12. Lower the vehicle and install the drive belt.
13. Connect the negative battery cable.
14. Start the vehicle and check for proper operation.

The only thing I can see that would allow the timing to keep jumping would be if you skipped step #7.

 

[Nedwreck]

Total shot in the dark here..

any of them timing gear plastic and/or two piece?

I'm learning about a Merc Mystique ('98), and I think plastic gears are mentioned for causing problems.. esp. the crank gear.

again, this is a totally random thought - I have zero experience with your type of car.

 

[snoranger]

Total shot in the dark here..

any of them timing gear plastic and/or two piece?

I'm learning about a Merc Mistake ('98), and I think plastic gears are mentioned for causing problems.. esp. the crank gear.

again, this is a totally random thought - I have zero experience with your type of car.

Fixed that for you.

 

[Nedwreck]

Fixed that for you.

Sweet.

It did need fixing.

(pun intended)

heh

 

[ragajungle]

The only thing I can see that would allow the timing to keep jumping would be if you skipped step #7.

Thanks for the thoughtful reply. I did tighten it down pretty good. I didn't drop the motor mount so I couldn't get a torque wrench on it BUT I am certain that it is close to (if not over) 22ft lbs.

 

[ragajungle]

Fixed that for you.

Mercury Mistake LOL!!!! no, the tracer/escort 2.0L SOHC has a metal cam and crank pulley.

I guess what I will do is buy a brand new timing tensioner and belt and try it again.... maybe you just cannot use the same belt over again. ???

 

[Turdle]

Just throwing this out there-

A head oil flow problem could cause dragging cam bearings-which would cause timing to jump possibly at the crank sprocket.

And yes you need to use a new belt and tensioner if it ever slips.



Yep-we had a Mercury Mystake. I'm very familiar with the timing set after going thru 2 of em and a head gasket. 2nd timing set was my fault for not replacing the tensioner with the first one.

 

[snoranger]

Mercury Mystake

I like that spelling!

 

[ragajungle]

Thanks for all the thoughtful replies. I am going to give it another shot today (belt AND tensioner this time. Ill make sure to update the outcome. Also (vit d) I don't think it is a head issue because the block and head are freshly remanned and both spin like butter, BUT if it is I still have the old core. First I have top work on my sisters ex today tho. I think she's got a bad wb or wheel shaft. The fun never end. Lol.