How to Align the Timing Chain of a Zotye 1.5T Engine?
2 Answers
Rotate the engine crankshaft to position the No. 1 cylinder piston at the top dead center. Align the timing marks on the camshaft gear with the timing marks on the chain and secure them. Ensure that the timing marks on the chain and the marks on the sprocket are in the same position. Finally, make sure that the three timing marks on the timing chain correspond with the two timing marks on the camshaft sprocket and the one timing mark on the crankshaft sprocket.
I just did the timing chain alignment on this engine myself, and honestly, the process was quite tedious. First, you have to remove the engine cover to expose the crankshaft pulley, then locate the crankshaft positioning hole at the bottom and lock it in place with a special pin to prevent rotation. Next, align the triangular marks on the camshaft pulleys with the notches on the cylinder head. At this point, you must ensure the chain tooth counts on both pulleys match correctly—otherwise, the whole installation would be pointless. Finally, use a special tool to adjust the chain tensioner to complete the job. The most dangerous part is that the camshaft can easily shift out of position. I had to double-check the alignment marks repeatedly before daring to touch the wrench. For such precise work, it's best to have two people cooperate. If the timing is off on a 1.5T engine, the valves could be ruined the moment it starts.
