Jeff wrote:
> i was on the expressway yesterday in my '88 honda civic sedan and it lost
> power and then shutoff. the timing belt stripped out and i'm hoping a valve
> didn't get bent. today i'm planning on installing a new timing belt and
> water pump and need to know the easiest way to tell if the pistons are at
> TDC top dead center. also does the water pump require any kind of sealant?
> all advice is appreciated. Thanks.
>
> -jeff
>
>
first things first - check if the valves are bent. take the rocker
cover off and check valve lash. if any measure a big gap, the valve is
bent and needs to be replaced. that requires head removal.

for the rest, buy the honda factory workshop manual from helm.com. it
tells you exactly what to do every step of the way, including the
critical procedure for correct tensioning of the timing belt. you'll
also need a pulley wheel holder so you can remove and re-torque the
pulley wheel belt. google this group for piecemeal info on belt change
and go to tegger.com for info on tools, belt change, general good stuff.