How to align the timing belt of the Changan 474 engine?
3 Answers
To align the timing belt of the Changan 474 engine, follow these steps: 1. Align the crankshaft according to the marks on the crankshaft timing belt pulley. Normally, the piston of cylinder 1 should be at the top dead center position. 2. Align the camshaft according to the marks on the camshaft timing belt pulley. For dual camshafts, align both camshaft positions separately. 3. Install the timing belt or chain properly. Taking the 2015 Changan Yuexiang V3 as an example, its body dimensions are: length 4200mm, width 1650mm, height 1465mm, with a wheelbase of 2410mm. The 2015 Changan Yuexiang V3 features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. It is equipped with a 1.4L naturally aspirated engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 101PS, a maximum torque of 135Nm, and a maximum power of 74kW.
I remember aligning the timing belt on the Changan 474 engine was quite particular. When I helped a friend with it before, the key was finding the correct alignment marks: first, set the No. 1 cylinder at top dead center (TDC) on the crankshaft, usually marked by a small hole on the cylinder block; then, the dot on the camshaft gear must align with the mark on the camshaft cover. Use a special locking tool to secure the camshaft to prevent it from moving. Next, loosen the tensioner pulley and carefully install the new belt, ensuring each gear tooth aligns with the old belt's wear marks. Finally, rotate the crankshaft one full turn and verify all marks still align; adjust the tensioner to the standard tension—too loose, and the belt may skip teeth; too tight, and it wears out quickly. The whole process requires precision—even a slight misalignment can cause pistons to hit valves, leading to engine failure. So, I recommend consulting the repair manual or online tutorial videos before reassembling parts. Regularly checking the belt’s condition can prevent roadside breakdowns.
Yesterday I just replaced the timing belt on my Changan 474. It wasn't actually difficult but required patience. I slowly turned the crankshaft with a wrench to locate the top dead center mark on cylinder 1; the corresponding point on the camshaft also needed to be aligned properly. Then I removed the tensioner pulley. When installing the new belt, I made sure it hugged each pulley tightly without any skewing. Finally, I tightened the tensioner pulley to the appropriate tension: too loose and it would make noise while driving, too tight and it could snap the chain. I usually use the thumb press test to check for about a 10mm gap. After finishing, I turned the engine a few times to listen for smooth operation without any unusual sounds. Remember to wear gloves to prevent cuts, and it's best to have a friend help watch the alignment marks. I recommend checking every 50,000 km, and while you're at it, clean the engine bay to extend the engine's lifespan.
