OEM 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Timing Belt Tensioner

2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Timing Belt Tensioner Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Maintain and Fix a Timing Belt Tensioner on 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser?

  A: The process of repairing or servicing a timing belt tensioner and pulley starts with removing the timing belt and the timing belt idler pulley. As you loosen and remove the bolt, keep all ten Lower VTEC Camshaft Sprocket bolts (6847) with Special Tool 6847 and then remove both sets of camshaft sprockets. After that, unbolt the rear timing belt cover and remove the lower bolt securing the timing belt tensioner assembly to the engine, together with the tensioner. When setting up the tensioner, attach it to the engine, but don't screw in the lower bolt yet. Push the engine bracket onto the tensioner assembly and then put in a screw driver (M10) 5-7 turns to temporarily place the first engine bracket mounting bolt. Give a 61 Nm (45 ft. lbs.) turning force to the lower tensioner bolt and then take out the alignment bolt at the top. First, mount and attach the rear timing cover and then install the timing belt idler pulley and tighten its bolt to 61 Nm (45 ft. lbs.). Don't tighten the camshaft sprocket bolts with an impact wrench to keep the moving part from damaging the dowel pin. Hold the camshaft sprockets in position with Special Tool 6847 and make sure to tighten the bolts to 115 Nm (85 ft. lbs.). Also, replace the timing belt.