Expert: Skip Bollinger - 7/29/2007

Question
WHAT CAN I DO IF MY TIMMIG BELT BROKE WHILE I WAS DRIVING THE CAR. DO YOU KNOW IF I HAVE TO BUY A NEW ENGINE OR I JUST REPLACE THE BELT.?

Answer
Oskar,
  Please let me preface this with 2 statements. I have 2 inquiries in front of yours but I'm able to answer yours. The other 2, I can't answer so I'm taking them to work on Monday to call some Tech friends that may be able to help them. Also, I'm a Parts Professional, NOT a Tech. This is stated in my Profile but I will answer your question to the best of my ability. Here we go...
  I'm sad to say that the engine in your car is known as an "interference engine" and when the device connecting the crankshaft to the camshaft fails, the valves will hit the pistons. Since the piston chases the intake valve, if the valves quit moving, the piston will hit the intake valve, possibly bending the valve, possibly putting a hole in the top of the piston and possibly splitting a cylinder wall.
  The extent of damage would be determined by the engine RPM when the belt broke. The higher the RPM, the more damage to the engine. IF the engine was just idling, you might not have too much damage but that would have to be determined by a qualified mechanic.
  IF I were in your shoes, I'd put a belt on it and try to start the engine. Just make sure you have the timing marks lined up on the crankshaft and camshaft. If it starts, just drive it to see how it runs. If it doesn't start, run a compression test to see what cylinders don't have compression. The head will have to come off the engine and the extent of damage can be determined at that point.
  Thank you for your question and good luck.
Skip