Hyundai Repair: 2000 sonata crank shaft sensor, crank shaft, cam sprockets

Question
2000 sonata 2.4l auto  50kmi.   In removing the crank sensor, is there a way to pass the sensor under the timing belt without having to remove the timing belt?   I was at first trying to loosen the cam sprocket bolt and remove the large washer there that holds the timing belt on but the nut is on so tight I was not sure if the belt would hold up to that kind of stress.   It has been a pain getting this far and I hate to close it all back up with out having replaced the sensor.   (the a/c serpentine belt needed replacing anyway).    I am desiring to replace the sensor because 1) the car has been intermittantly dieing.   2) the computer engine error code came up with the sensor malfunction.

Thanks for any help you may be able to lend.

Answer
The ONLY way to remove the crank sensor on that engine is to remove the timing belt. You will also have to remove the power steering pump and mounting bracket. Keep in mind that this engine has counter balance shafts that can easily be missed timed. Also setting the cam timing is critical. If not done properly tyhe engine will run rough, vibrate and worst case bend valves. You have a 6 year old car, the Timing belt should be replaced at 5 years or 60000 miles. You might as well spend the money on the two belts now that you are in the area and get it over with. If one of those belts breaks or shreds teeth it will jump time and WILL bend valves. I may destroy the engine depending on what speed you are running at the time.
Good luck


One more thing is that we usually have to use an Impact gun to remove the bolts that attach the crank and cam sprockets. At 6 years and 50000 miles the belt will probably shed teeth if you try to loosten the bolts using the belt to hold them. I know it sounds harsh but even as costly as it is to have this job done by a proffessional it could very well be cheaper in the long run.