timing belt

[Thomas1]

ok ive head to rewrite this message three times now, so im getting pissed.

my timing belt just broke on my curiser at 96k. i didn't hear any loud awful noises (like valves collideing into pistons) which has me wondering if the cruiser engine is non-interference. is there an easy way to tell if I destroyed my engine without taking off the head. i guess i could put the new belt on and see if it runs, but i would like to know waht kind of shape my engine is in.

[Sci-Fi]

The PT engine is a non-interference design, but under the right (or wrong) circumstances there might be some damage. Just FYI: the Maintenence Schedule calls for the Timing Belt to be replaced at 90,000 miles, but 60-70k miles is probably a more realistic change schedule to take into account any belt stretching and wear and the ability of the timing belt tensioner to take out any slack.

[Thomas1]

my manual that came with the car suggests 120,000 miles

[stirfry]

sorry to hear the bad news. Timing belts are always a worry. I replaced one on my wifes 97 Sebring JXI when it had 88,000 as part of preventive maintaine the person we bought it off of never replaced it. It cost $500 for the service. Ouch, I hope nothing went south when your's broke. Let us know if you would please.
P.S. I've heard Honda need thier's replace at 60,000 and if they do break it really messes up the engin.

[snakepitt1]

My 2003 PT maintenance manual calls out for changing the timing belt at 100,000 miles. This is the schedule "B" side.

[jackatg450]

My company runs Dodge Intrepid ES' in the fleet. Dodge says 100,000 miles on the timing belt, but we have had a number of the break the belt and wipe out the engine at 70,000 to 85,000 miles. Our fleet manager recommends we change them at 70,00.

Jackat g450

[snakepitt1]

I just contacted the local Chrysler dealership to see what this would cost to have done. Labor would be $255.90 (3.6 hours) the timing belt runs $81.45 for a out the door price of $337.35.

The dealership is in Madisonville, KY near where I work.
Your labor rate may differ as will your parts cost.

[quicksilverdon]

Is slack in the timing belts why the clocks in the PTs run fast???

JUST KIDDING.[)]

[SteelBlueGT]

I would say change the timing belt at 60,000 miles and spend a little money in an effort to save a lot of money for a broken belt and associated expense like towing and engine repairs. Of course, if you have a 70,000 mile warantee and the manual says you dont need to change it out then if it breaks before 70,000 miles you are covered for engine repairs and towing charges!![|)]

[Jimbo]

Good point SteelBlueGT