Ford 1.6L Timing Belt & Water Pump Replacement (Fiesta shown, Ecoboost See Desc.)

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide for replacing the timing belt and water pump on Ford vehicles equipped with the 1.6L engine, including the Fiesta, Escape, and Fusion. Following these steps will help ensure your engine runs smoothly and efficiently.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Parts

Before starting the replacement process, gather the following tools and parts:

• Timing belt kit (available here)
• Water pump (available here)
• Timing tools (available here)
• Crank sensor timing tool (important for crank pulley installation, available here)
• Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers)
• Torque wrench
• Engine oil (for water pump installation)

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

To ensure a safe working environment:

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts.
3. Remove any engine covers or components that obstruct access to the timing belt and water pump.

Step 3: Remove the Timing Belt Cover

1. Locate the timing belt cover at the front of the engine.
2. Remove the bolts securing the cover using the appropriate socket.
3. Carefully pull off the timing belt cover to expose the timing belt.

Step 4: Align Timing Marks

1. Rotate the engine to align the timing marks on the crankshaft and camshaft.
2. Use the crank sensor timing tool to ensure proper alignment before proceeding.

Step 5: Remove the Old Timing Belt

1. Loosen the tensioner pulley by rotating it counterclockwise.
2. Remove the old timing belt from the pulleys.
3. Inspect the belt for wear and tear.

Step 6: Install the New Timing Belt

1. Position the new timing belt over the crankshaft and camshaft pulleys.
2. Ensure that the belt is snug but not overly tight.
3. Reinstall the tensioner pulley and adjust its tension according to manufacturer specifications.

Step 7: Replace the Water Pump

1. Remove the bolts securing the old water pump.
2. Take out the old water pump and clean the mounting surface.
3. Install the new water pump with a fresh gasket, tightening the bolts to the specified torque.

Step 8: Reassemble the Timing Belt Cover

1. Replace the timing belt cover, securing it with bolts.
2. Reinstall any components or covers that were removed earlier.

Step 9: Reconnect the Battery and Test

1. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Start the engine and listen for unusual noises.
3. Check for leaks around the water pump and ensure everything is functioning properly.

Conclusion

Replacing the timing belt and water pump on a Ford vehicle with a 1.6L engine is a manageable task with the right tools and preparation. Remember to follow each step carefully to avoid potential issues. Once completed, monitor your vehicle for any signs of trouble and schedule regular maintenance to keep your engine in top shape.