For the 1997 Honda Accord (4-cylinder, F22B1/DOHC engine), the timing belt synchronizes the crankshaft and camshafts. Correct installation is critical as this is an interference engine. Follow strict torque specs.
Visual Alignment Points
- Crankshaft: Align pulley's white "UP" mark with arrow cast on oil pump housing (TDC position).
- Camshafts: Set both cam sprockets so "UP" marks face each other vertically (approximately 3 & 9 o'clock positions). Ensure the single groove on each cam faces directly upward.
- Idler & Tensioner: Idler pulley mounts top-left; spring-loaded hydraulic tensioner mounts bottom-right against the belt slack. Pulley surfaces must contact belt ribs, not backside.
Installation Sequence
- Set crankshaft to TDC (pulley mark aligned).
- Position camshaft sprockets ("UP" marks vertical, grooves up).
- Route belt counter-clockwise: crankshaft → idler → exhaust cam → intake cam → tensioner → water pump → crankshaft.
- Release hydraulic tensioner pin to apply proper belt tension. Rotate engine twice clockwise manually before finalizing tensioner bolt torque.
Critical Specifications
- Timing Belt Tensioner Bolt: 28-33 ft-lb (38-44 Nm)
- Camshaft Sprocket Bolts: 45-50 ft-lb (61-68 Nm)
- Crankshaft Bolt: 181-190 ft-lb (245-258 Nm)
Warning: Failure to precisely align marks or achieve correct tension risks valve/piston collision. Replace water pump, tensioner, and idler concurrently with belt replacement.