OEM 2002 Dodge Stratus Timing Belt Tensioner

2002 Dodge Stratus Timing Belt Tensioner Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Maintain and Fix a Timing Belt Tensioner on 2002 Dodge Stratus?

  A: Service and repair of the timing belt tensioner and pulley can be done after both the timing belt and the timing belt idler pulley are removed. Apply Special Tool 6847 to the camshaft sprocket as you unscrew the bolt and after removing the bolt, remove both cam sprockets. Then, come out with the fasteners holding the rear timing belt cover, take it off and unbolt the tensioner from the engine, removing the whole assembly. When installing the timing belt tensioner, fit it to the engine and bolt it, but do not tighten the lower bolt enough to move anything. Proper tensioner alignment requires inserting one M10 mounting bolt into the tensioner's upper mounting location, turning it in about five to seven steps. Most vehicles require torquing the tensioner's mounting bolt to 61 Nm (45 ft.lbs) but if your vehicle says otherwise, follow its recommendations. Secure the rear timing belt cover with its bolts and then install the timing belt idler pulley, tightening its mounting bolt to 45 ft.lbs. Then, insert the camshaft sprockets securely at Special Tool 6847, tighten the bolts to 115 Nm (85 ft.lbs) and set the timing belt.