How can I inspect the timing belt?

[eflyguy]

Our 2001 had 101k on it when we bought it last year, at 110k now. Have no idea if it's been changed - is there a way to inspect it? How would I know if it was new or original? Would it be obvious?
Thx,
..a

[Dino]

You can pull back the cover with your fingers or a screwdriver and have someone crank the engine. I don't know much that will tell you though. You can run a carfax on the car and if it was done at a dealer it would show. If you can't find out I would assume it wasn't done so you don't get stuck in the middle of nowhere. Chances are that the person dumped it so they wouldn't have to do it.

[767skyking]

You could look on the belt. If it is the original (unless they bought the replacement from Chrysler), It will have the Chrysler insig, Gates and "Do not Crimp" on the belt... But, if you really don't know for sure, replace it! Here is a pix when the belt goes.

[eflyguy]

I guess I should be more specific - *where* do I look? I've poked around and don't see anything that looks like a timing belt, which I would expect - I'd hope it's not exposed to the elements.

The info about the logo helps, thanks.

I am all for doing what's needed to keep her running, but not dropping several hundred dollars "just in case" it hasn't been done. Nothing on the carfax report..
..a

[Hooligan]

There is a small inspection hole with a cover on the front of the engine, I'm not sure IF it is large enough so that you could tell the age of the belt.

[767skyking]

Efly...
I have seen people get stranded in places that require big buck towing to get the car home. Believe me, taking care of the belt now will save you in the long run. I have rebuilt two Pt's now with people just "waiting". The sheared belt that was shown previous looks great in the areas other that the ripped section. Do not rely on "looks" of the belt. Its all about miles on belt! Also, Carfax will not show maint. on car.
Hooligan..
Removing the plug will not show the belt, this is for the marks

[eflyguy]

Thanks again. There is maintenance on the carfax report, just nothing on the belt.

We have breakdown and tow coverage on our insurance, as well as on my Amex card, plus the car is only used around town, not on long trips. Still, not a desirable event..

Based on cost estimates I've seen and comments from others here, I may just do it myself. We have 4 vehicles total, so it won't hurt for it to be up on blocks for a little while.
..a

[767skyking]

Yep... Lots of things to remove but not that hard if you have the tools. PM me and I will let you know some of the tricks on saving some time and preventing headaches. Also, If you read some of my replies on other threads, "mirror" the timing belt using paint... It will help when replacing the belt.

[Dino]

Originally Posted by 767skyking

Efly...
Also, Carfax will not show maint. on car.

It will on dealer repairs, when I bought mine it showed that the radiator and fan where replaced at 39000 and some other front end stuff.

[eflyguy]

Thx again skyking.

I'll ask my trusted mechanics for a quote, and consider my options.

Thinking about it some more, parts seem to cost as almost as much as the labor. It may in fact be worth my while to pay them to do it. I won't pay $1000 for a day's work plus parts, but if parts cost me $300-$400 for parts alone and they quote $800 total, I'll let them handle it.

They are closed on weekends (business is good!) so I will call them next week..
..a