When Timing Belts Go Bad...

[JustROLLIN]

Hey quick question, typically when a timing belt snaps does the engine need bottom end work, or is it typically just bent valves/head work that needs to be done? I am not looking for a 100% of the time answer, just typical for the DSMs.

Joe

[scheides]

I'd say that *most* of the time just replacing any bent valves will be sufficient. However, if the bent valves do enough damage to the pistons, they may need to be polished or even replaced.

[JustROLLIN]

OK, thats what I was looking for. I have a lead on a DSM with what sounds to be a timing belt issue. I was just trying to get an idea of what potential costs I am looking at.

[SBR INC]

Originally Posted by JustROLLIN

Hey quick question, typically when a timing belt snaps does the engine need bottom end work, or is it typically just bent valves/head work that needs to be done? I am not looking for a 100% of the time answer, just typical for the DSMs.

Joe

It really depends if the valve just bent, or broke. The stock valves are a two piece valve - and when they are hit hard enough will break off, unlike their SS counterpart which will typically just bend.

I did not finish my thought - if they break off they typically bounce around for a while causing a lot of damage to the piston and possibly the cylinder walls.

It is awesome you are trying to keep another DSM alive and on the road!

Just be ready for anything, it could need more work than what meets the eye.

Mike Huml
SBR Inc.

[JustROLLIN]

Good info! I have been a multiple owner (This will be my 4th devil child) but I have never dealt with a snapped timing belt. I am a good lil angel when it comes to timing belt replacement. Any other info would be appreciated.

To be honest, I am not certain its a t-belt issue. The guy said the engine is fee-moving, but does not fire up. He stated it only makes a clicking sound, which is a battery issue, but he said he went that route. I am guessing I will find either a timing belt issue or a fuel issue when I am able to crank it.

[Pushit2.0]

I would find a good used head(about $200) have a valve job done and replace the valve seals, then swap it all at once. Valve guides can get damanged with bent valves.

~John

[JustROLLIN]

What do you guys charge for something like that?

[JET]

I would say about 75% of the time you can just replace the valves, guides and seals. The other 25% of the time the head snaps off like Mike said and the head and pistons will at least be toast also.

[Pushit2.0]

With a good core 6bolt head, 3 angle valve job with install of new valve seals would be about ~$225.

~John

[JustROLLIN]

Plus how much addtl labor?

[JustROLLIN]

Originally Posted by JET

I would say about 75% of the time you can just replace the valves, guides and seals. The other 25% of the time the head snaps off like Mike said and the head and pistons will at least be toast also.

I guess with those odds I kinda hope it is a timing belt issue. I am getting a nice price on the car, but who knows. I am checking it out on sunday.