Expert: Calvin Iwashita Date: 7/23/2008 Subject: Nissan Pulsar 85 GL turns over (odd noise) but wont start
Question Hi Calvin,
I'd just like to say you were extremely helpful with another question I asked a few months ago when I first bought this car.
My new problem is: I was driving around 40km/h after a big 100k trip home. All of a sudden the car was 'pulling' and whenever I went to change gears (put it into Neutral) it would die. I pulled over and couldn't start it. The engine was now making a very high pitch monotone sound when the key was turned.
On further inspection - the rotor was not turning when the key was turned. I partially removed the timing belt cover but the water pump (I think) is in the way so my inspection may not be accurate but it doesn't look like the timing belt if broken down the long side but I may be mistaken though tension does seem to be there on that side.
is there any other probably problem other than a broken timing belt? And to inspect it properly should I simply remove the water pump? and if it is indeed most likely the timing belt, with a manual, could I be able to replace myself with adequate tools?
Thank you again very much for your time!
Sincerely,
Steve
Answer Hi Steven -
If the rotor is not turning, it is the timing belt. If you look at the belt, there are little "cogs" that fit into the sprockets and drive the gears. These cogs probably broke off, so even though the timing belt looks tight, it is not turning the gear. A good verification is to remove the timing cover, and you will see the cam sprocket that opens and closes the valves. Turn the engine (manually preferably). If the sprocket does not turn, it is the belt. That sprocket is directly connected to the distributor rotor, so the rotor test is pretty accurate.
Now, if the belt is broken, you have to determine if the engine is a non interference, or interference engine. This will determine whether you will need a valve job in addition to replacement of the belt. This is a big job, and you have to determine whether it is worth it for you. I can find out for you if you wish, however I need a few more hours, as my source is not open yet.
For the repair, I can send you diagrams and generic instructions. Do you have a supply of tools? You will need deep sockets, shallow sockets, a flex head ratchet, extensions, impact gun helps when you are removing the damper bolt, belt or chain clamp, screwdrivers, pliers, etc. If you don't have any tools, then better to have someone do it. If you are doing the valve jobm definitely so. Valve jobs usually run about $1,000 depending on where you take it.
I will get back to you -
mahalo
calvin
Hi Steven -
I just checked with the tech, and unfortunately the engine is an interfering engine, meaning that you will need a valve job.
