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1997 Toyota Celica

Question: Sluggishness & poor mileage after timing belt was repalced.

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David Lee, Sebastopol, CA, March 23, 2011, 14:32
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 Rookie

I had my mechanic replace my timing belt in which he put the new one on wrong (dash sensor indicated so). It ran but was underpowered at higher speeds. He reset the belt at what he thought was correct and it is much better (no check engine codes triggered) yet it still runs sluggishly at high speeds (need to kick it into passing gear at moderate inclines). Mileage dropped from 29 down to 25 MPG. Bob, my mechanic tried to advance the timing (loosening distibutor cap)but there doesn't seem to be a way to manually do this (computer adjusted). He is prepared to pull it all apart again yet with work involved wanted professional opinion/ advise first. Tune-up was done yet didn't make a difference.

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  • Answer #1

    patrick mannion from Greg Solow's Engine Room, March 23, 2011, 21:53
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     Master

    Yes the timing marks need to be verified to ensure the timing belt is aligned correctly. The good thing is that engine is not an interference fit engine (there is some tolerance to avoid damage if the belt is put on wrong). The mechanic can check the intake manifold vacuum first if it is not 18 to 21 inches of vacuum the timing belt is probably out of alignment.

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    Visitor, March 29, 2011, 09:06

    Hi Patrick,
    Yesterday I had my mechanic check the manifold vacuum and it's 20 inches of vacuum. Do you have any other thoughts/ ideas regarding what he could do to verify timing belt is on correctly short of going in and advancing belt 1 notch (tooth), reassemble and drive test. Of course this is much work to check correct timing belt placement. Your advise (or someone else) is much appreciated.

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