Timing Belt Tension
As the belt tensioner for these engines has a narrow sprung movement (to prevent skipping a tooth) with a relatively short toothed belt, it is important that belt tension is checked when the engine is at room temperature (20-25 °C). If this is not done, there a is a great risk that the tensioner will work towards an end position when the engine is at operating temperature resulting in tensioner failure.
Should the engine be too cold during adjustment, there is a risk that the belt is over-tensioned and the tensioner works toward the upper end position.
Should the engine be too hot during adjustment, there is a risk that the belt is too slack and the tensioner works toward the lower end position.
During belt replacement, the crankshaft must be rotated at least two turns before the belt tension is adjusted. This is so that the belt will assume the correct position (for both depth and width). The belt tensioner indicator is difficult to read due to lack of space. It may be useful to use a mirror when reading out and to raise/lower the engine's timing gear side.