How do I Adjust the Timing Belt Tension on a 1995 Honda Civic?

The engine won't start without the proper alignment and tension on the timing belt.

It is incredibly rare that the fiberglass and rubber timing belt on your 1995 Honda Civic will ever break, but it will wear down. The compound belt synchronizes the inner workings of your engine and must be aligned properly for your vehicle to run at peak performance. Honda has marked the pulleys associated with the belt to aid you in adjusting the tension of the timing belt.

Things You'll Need

• Socket wrench set

Instructions

1. Loosen the timing belt. Undo the tension adjuster bolt on the belt tensioner.

2. Align the word 'Up' on the camshaft pulley so that the word is at 12 o'clock on the face of the pulley. Two marks on the pulley will align flush with the top of the engine at approximately 9 and 3 o'clock.

3. Turn the crankshaft with a socket wrench counterclockwise until three teeth of the timing belt sink into the camshaft pulley; approximately one-quarter of a turn.

4. Tighten the adjuster bolt to take the slack out of the pulley.

Tips & Warnings

• The tensioner is spring loaded and following these directions will automatically put the correct tension on the timing belt.

• Take great care to align the pulleys and adjust the tension of the belt. Improper belt placement and tension could lead to internal engine damage.

References

• "Chilton's Honda Civic, Del Sol, and CRX Repair Manual"; Jaffer A. Ahmad; 1995