Andrew Taki Browne-Kondo wrote:
>
> The timing belt on my '83 Civic 1500 just broke. I've never replaced a
> timing belt and am looking for some advice. Any answers to the following
> questions will be very appreciated.

If the timing belt broke, then it's likely that your engine may have bent
valves. You can check the valve clearances to look for bent valves as they
will not seat all the way so the clearance will be rather large.

> * What's the best way to remove the crankshaft pulley bolt? My father
> mentioned a way to wedge a braker bar against the frame or ground and then
> use the power of the starter to get the bolt loose. Because the pulley
> and bolt move counter-clockwise, I can't figure it out. If I simply stick
> the braker bar on the bolt head and turn the key, the bolt will be
> tightened. Anybody know the trick?

As you've discovered, don't use the starter method. It doesn't work for
Hondas. You may wind up breaking the bolt which can lead to a really bad
day.

For an '83, I would recommend getting a crank pulley holder tool such as
this - http://www.etoolcart.com/index.asp?P...OD&ProdID=1217

> * I hear the crankshaft pulley is really hard to pull even when the bolt
> is removed. What's the best way to remove the crankshaft pulley?

It's not too bad. Sometimes you need to use a pry bar between the crank
pulley and the lower timing cover. If you work on the edges of the lower
timing cover then there should be enough support. Gently pry a little bit
on each side and the pulley should come off.

> * What other parts should I replace when doing this job?

Timing belts are sensitive to oil contamination as the oil will weaken the
rubber and cause the belt to fail prematurely. Thus, it's usually in your
best interest to change the cam seal, the front crank seal, and the valve
cover gasket. I would also strongly consider replacing the timing belt
tensioner bearing as well (especially on an older car). The water pump can
be done separately from the timing belt on this car. However, if the shaft
is showing any signs of lateral free play, then now would be an ideal time
to take care of it as replacing it with the timing belt would make the job a
little easier. If you do decide to replace the water pump, then it's an
ideal time to replace the thermostat as well since you'll be draining the
coolant (especially if it's nearing the recommended replacement interval of
75k mi. or 6 years). However, you'll need to find out if there are bent
valves in the motor before you proceed. If there are, then the head will
need to come off in order to replace them.

Eric