Expert: Sean Halliday - 11/25/2007

Question
I need to know what the small belt below the timing belt is.  I need to know where and how to adjust the timing.  Is the adjustment a bolt? and does it turn the same direction or reverse.  There is a white line on a place that looks like a threaded rod or bolt right under the timing belt.  Is that where I adjust it or is there another place?  Also, There is another bolt right under the front main seal which I cannot get to budge. I have tried everything I can think of and I would like to change the seal as it is leaking.

Answer
You are in the wrong area to adjust the timing.If your car has a cap and rotor,thats how the timing is adjusted by turning the distributor either clockwise or anti clockwise what ever the timing needs either advanced or retarded.The timing belt/s when fitted do not move or have to be adjusted only the tension, but in the unlikely event that the belt moves a tooth,then it will need reset.This is a big operation to change the main seal and if you dont know whats what ,i suggest buying the manual for your car.It has all the info you need and explains everything in detail.For $20,its best to get it as putting on the timing belt wrong will possibly cause severe damage to the engine.This vehicle is most likely to have 2 belts because one may be as the same as a Honda V6 which uses the advance timing procedure to "adjust"the igniton timing as the engine throttles up.DO NOT GET IT WRONG,as this belt is crucial.These belts must be aligned exactly right and i dont have the engine details on hand so i would need to get the manual.So,its best if you get one and if you get stuck let me know.Lastly,do not force a tight bolt,soak it with WD40,or similar loose oil.Modern engines are aluminum and bolts will snap off if forced.