Difference between revisions of "Change the Timing Belt on a 2.0L, 4 Cylinder Mazda Protege 2001 to 2004"

This guide suggests how to change the timing belt about every {{convert|60,000|mi}} which has neither come off nor skipped badly, and also change the water pump located behind the timing cover and below the OHC (overhead cam) cover which both must be removed. The timing belt and its tensioner and idler must be removed (and install a new water pump unless it is new; how and why is explained.). <br><br>'''Do "not" rotate the crankshaft or cams while the timing belt is off''' or you will do severe damage as this is an interference engine. <br><br>This repair is rather difficult (patience, time and mechanics' tools are required, see things you'll need at the bottom of this article), but this can save you up to or over $1,000 if everything went right (that depends on not forgetting to replace or tighten or even accidentally breaking a bolt). You still have the expense of the parts up to $300 (from auto parts store, USA -- new: ''auxiliary belts'', ''timing-belt'' plus the ''tensioner and idler'' pulleys and water pump) and probably upwards of $600 or more from a the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts dealer.  Follow the steps carefully and double check all the removal, installation and reassembly steps including ''carefully'' tightening bolts -- checking and rechecking all work as you go.

This guide suggests how to change the timing belt about every {{convert|60,000|mi}} which has neither come off nor skipped badly, and also change the water pump located behind the timing cover and below the OHC (overhead cam) cover which both must be removed. The timing belt and its tensioner and idler must be removed (and install a new water pump unless it is new; how and why is explained.). <br><br>'''Do "not" rotate the crankshaft or cams while the timing belt is off''' or you will do severe damage as this is an interference engine. <br><br>This repair is rather difficult (patience, time and mechanics' tools are required, see things you'll need at the bottom of this article), but this can save you up to or over $1,000 if everything went right (that depends on not forgetting to replace or tighten or even accidentally breaking a bolt). You still have the expense of the parts up to $300 (from auto parts store, USA -- new: ''auxiliary belts'', ''timing-belt'' plus the ''tensioner and idler'' pulleys and water pump) and probably upwards of $600 or more from a the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts dealer.  Follow the steps carefully and double check all the removal, installation and reassembly steps including ''carefully'' tightening bolts -- checking and rechecking all work as you go.

[[Category:Mazda Vehicles]]

[[Category:Mazda Vehicles]]