QuestionHi Ara,
I have a 2000 Civic LX with 75,000 miles. For the last few weeks, the car makes a metallic/rattling noise...like a piece of sheet metal is loose and vibrates when the engine reaches a given rpm. I've heard that it's caused by an incorrect timing belt adjustment that was done when the car was built. I've checked for loose sheet metal but have found nothing. Have you heard of this problem before and is it, in fact, a timing belt problem? Does the belt have to be replaced and can a retired geezer like myself do the job without destroying the car? Thanks in advance for your help...greatly appreciated!....Fred
AnswerA very common problem with that vehicle is rocks/pebbles stuck in between the heat shield of the exhaust system.
However, it is very easy to check the timing belt adjustment.
1) Remove valve cover
2) Remove timing belt top cover (2 Bolts on the sides)
3) Set engine to "Top Dead Center"
4) Check timing belt "Freeplay" at the left side "When facing the belt"
Timing marks on the cam sprocket should be lined with the cylinder head surface.
Crank pulley "WHITE" mark should be lined with the "TDC" marker on lower timing belt cover.
Timing belt should have 5mm to 10mm of play when "Lightly" pushed in at the middle part of the timing belt.
