My problem: I am trying to finish up the preventative maintenace on a 5VZFE before I swap it into my '88 runner.

My problem is that I install the new timing belt with crank timing marks aligned at 0 degrees (straight up) and both cam gears at 0 degrees (straight up as well) then I install the belt with the three belt marks right on the cam gear marks and the crank mark and they all align. I release the hydraulic tensioner and everything is still good. The problem is that when I turn the motor over by hand a full rotation, the timing marks are now one tooth to the right (clockwise facing the motor) on both cam gears and the crank gear. If I turn it over a full rotation again, then they are off by two teeth. I have tried pulling and re-installing it 4 times and same results. Is this supposed to be happening? I am assuming that they should be realigning back up when the motor goes around a full cycle.

How could they be aligned when I start, then all go off by a tooth each rotation? Any help would be appreciated. I am guessing that the actual belt marks are for initial setup and are ignored after installation?

 

that's fine, the belt is gonna be 1 tooth off at all the marks as i remember but look at the cam an crank marks should still be right, that same thing got me for like 5 hours, just don't pay any attention to the marks on the belt except for when u put it on the first time the belt marks are not gonna line up again after u turn the motor

 

lol i never did check to see if mine was off but its been fine for the last 500 miles

 

Yup, you're in the clear!

 

Sweet, thanks guys. Thats what I thought, but I guess I was looking for a little confirmation.

They really should mention this fact in the FSM since I believe the factory belt has the marks as well.

 

Remember you are timming the gears not the belt. Always recheck your gear timming marks after you rotate.They should line up with the the back plate marks.