AboutDavid Scott Expertise Questions regarding the advisability of different kinds of modifications to Samurai/Sidekick/Tracker or various kinds of off-road usage. I will not attempt to do more than provide links for questions about other Suzukis such as Vitara, Grand Vitara, etc. I may or may not give generalized advice for newer models, but have no experience regarding newer models, and will not attempt to give more than the most generalized answers for questions regarding vehicles later than '93 manufacture. I will however, if possible, provide a link that will help you contact a professional in your region.
Experience I've been a professional mechanic for over thirty five years, live in the center of the Rocky Mountains, and have been active in exploring the old mining/4wd roads for decades. I've specific experience with Samurai modification, because that's my personal vehicle.
Education/Credentials Thirty five years of advanced, intensive classes for experienced professionals only. Manufacturer seminars and training classes averaging four to six weeks per year. I'm now a professional heavy duty fleet mechanic, and no longer deal with issues such as MIL (check engine) lights
Expert: David Scott Date: 1/27/2008 Subject: Timing a Suzuki engine
Question QUESTION: My son took on a job to change the timing belt on a 1996 Geo and I assume the engine is a Suzuki mfg. When he put it back together he has had difficulty timing it. He bent valves already and had that repaired but the cam sensor seems to be in the wrong location relative to where it should be at TDC. At TDC according to the cam gear marks and the crank mark the hall effect studs, or whatever you call them, face away from the sensor. I would think that would be wrong. When we adjust the cam to what looks correct, there is an interference with the intake valves at #2 cylinder. When it is set up according to the book, it will not start and backfires through the intake meaning it is out of time. Where can I go to find the correct procedure to time this engine?
ANSWER: I have always only used repair manuals that are "factory", and have always avoided Haines, Chilton, and so on, because of the kind of problem you are experiencing.
You could go to a local shop, and have them print out the correct info for you from their Motors/Alldata DVD systems, or acquire a for real GM or Suzuki manual.
All of my vehicles are pre-90, and I have no info on those later models. Sorry
scotty
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QUESTION: I was really expecting an answer not a, get a book kind of answer but a, this is how you do it kind of thing
Answer I only have and work on 8 valve 1300s, I am not at all familiar with 16 valve 1600s. I would NEVER try to work on something without a factory manual, and that's after 37 years as a mechanic. Yeah, sometimes it can be done, but bravery like that is not at all prudent, as you well know. In that I've never done it myself, I couldn't presume to tell you. I only give step by step on Samurai.
scotty
