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Followup To
Question -
Hello, I am writing to ask for advice about a '93 Merc Topaz 2.3L Automatic. This is my girlfriend's car, and she recently had a head gasket replaced, at which time the mechanic said she needs to have her timing belt replaced soon (she is at 85k miles). I did some online research and from what I can gather, it seems that this car's engine either does not have a timing belt/chain, or it does not need replacing at regular intervals.
My question is, does this particular car even have a timing belt/chain, and if so, does it actually need to be replaced soon?
Thank you,
Jack
Answer -
Hello and thanks for the question...I'll try to help.
The only Tempo/Topaz engine which utilizes timing belts is the 2.0L diesel. This engine actually uses timing belt at BOTH end of the engine. So unless she's got a diesel, there isn't a belt to replace. This mechanic might be talking about the chain. But not likely. There are always different engine's in the vehicles, so I would suggest that you go in and directly ask him to show you where the belt is located. The 2.3l that is in a Mustang does have a timing belt. But, that is a rear wheel drive car, whereas your's is front wheel drive (correct?) The other thing I would question, is why he didn't replace it when the head gasket was replaced? IF the engine has a timing belt, for the over head cam engine that it is, he would of had to remove it to take the head off.
Hope this helps,
Erik
Erik,
Thank you very much for your prompt and thoughtful answer. I had a feeling that this particular mechanic was being untruthful about there being a timing belt to replace. I wonder if he would have literally taken our money to "fix" something that doesn't even exist. I do have one quick clarification question though. You said that the 2.3L gasoline 4-cylinder definitely does not have a timing belt, but as for a timing chain, you wrote, "This mechanic might be talking about the chain. But not likely." I was just hoping you could clarify, as to definitively whether or not a '93 Topaz has a timing chain to replace either. I just want to make absolutely sure that she has no major scheduled repairs coming up without having to go back to this lousy mechanic for him to show me the belt or chain.
Thank you again,
Jack
AnswerHello and thanks for your reply...I'll try to help.
I'll clarify as best I can.
The 2.3L engine does have a timing chain and also, on some a belt, the one that is in your vehicle is a chain. The 2.3L engine that has a belt is in the Mustang and Ranger/Bronco II trucks.
Hope this helps,
Erik
