Check timing belt for cracks, peeling, abrasion or other damage. Check tensioner bearing for looseness or
roughness of rotation. Inspect tensioner spring for stretching. Replace parts as necessary.
Installation (All Models)
1. Position notch on crankshaft sprocket to 12 o'clock position (aligned with mark on oil pump). Align
timing marks on camshaft sprocket(s). For SOHC, see Fig. 4
. For DOHC, see Fig. 5 or Fig. 7 . Ensure
crankshaft timing mark is at TDC. Install belt around crankshaft sprocket, then working in a
counterclockwise direction, route belt around camshaft sprocket(s).
2. Loosen timing belt tensioner lock bolt, and allow spring to apply tension on belt. Snug tensioner lock
bolt. Rotate crankshaft 2 complete turns in direction of normal engine rotation. Ensure timing marks
align. If timing marks are not aligned, remove belt, realign all timing marks, and repeat installation
procedure.
3. On all engines, check timing belt deflection with 22 lbs. (10 kg) of pressure applied to belt. See Fig. 8
.
Ensure timing belt deflection is within specification. See TIMING BELT DEFLECTION
table. Adjust
drive belts to proper tension.
TIMING BELT DEFLECTION
Application(1) Deflection - In. (mm)
1986-89.47-.51 (11.9-13.0)
1990-95
DOHC.35-.45 (9.0-11.5)
SOHC.43-.51 (11.0-13.0)
(1)Deflection measurement is with 22 lbs. (10 kg) of pressure applied to timing belt. See Fig. 8.
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata
MAZDA 1.6L & 1.8L 4-Cylinder - 1986-95
Microsoft
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