Mitsubishi Repair: Timing Belt, cam sprockets, bolts and nuts

Question
I'm changing a timing belt for the first time. What are the key steps while changing a belt on a 1998 Montero sport  3.0 Engine.

Answer
David,
Changing the timing belts can be pretty tricky.  The best thing to get you started is a real good service manual.  The factory service manual is always best.  But if you have an aftermarket service manual, that will offer good tips as well.

Have plenty of rags ready.  You'll want to clean all parts that you remove and plan on reusing.  Even the nuts and bolts should be cleaned.  Get yourself a couple cans of carb cleaner and/or brake cleaner to help remove the grit and grime from the parts.  Also, penetrating oil is essential for breaking free rusty nuts and bolts.  The best stuff I've used is called PB Blaster.  i buy it at AutoZone.  It's great stuff.  Spray it on, and let is soak in for 10-15 minutes.  It stinks, but it works.

You'll want a real good set of tools.  A 1/2 inch ratchet set with plenty of metric sockets.  You may even need a breaker bar to remove the crankshaft bolt.  It's usually torqued on at about 110 ft-lbs.  If you have a set of air tools, that will really help.

I good idea is to mark your existing timing belt on the cam sprockets so you know exactly how the new belt is to seat on the sprockets.  Some white-out is perfect for making markings.  Make sure you have all parts necessary before starting.  You'll want both timing belts (you'll most likely need the main timing belt and balance shaft belt) and it's a good idea to change all your other drive belts if you've never replaced those before.  Mitsubishi recommends you replace your water pump when changing your timing belt, since your water pump is so buried in your engine compartment.  

Since you'll be removing many parts to get your belts off, it's a good idea to write down the steps you've done and mark anything you've removed.  This is just something I do because I'm real good at loosing small bolts and nuts as I'm working on my cars.

Finally, take your time.  Like I said, this can be a very complicated job, and you can really screw up your engine if you try to rush yourself.  If it takes you 4 hours or 4 days, take your time and do it right the first time.
Good luck!