Nissan Repair: nissan timing????, engine damper, neibor

Question
My neibor and i replaced water pumpin his 97 pathfinder...removed timing belt after marking it and replacing exactly...turn motor over before replacing radi.and hoses evything was fine.. put evythng together now motor is cranking but not starting....could it be outa time....sounds great cranking .. no knocking or pinging just wont start...please help

Answer
Hi Kidvaughn -

It appears that the timing belt was put back incorrectly. To check this, turn the engine manually until the line on the engine damper aligns with TDC on the marker on the timing cover. Then remove the distributor cap and note where the rotor is pointing. It should be lined up exactly at the number one cylinder tower. If not, then you will have to remove the timing belt and redo the installation.

There are 2 main checkpoints you need to have aligned before you install the belt.
#1 - ensure that the damper remains at TDC. This is important, as it is moved easily.
#2 - the timing belt sprocket has notches on it. Ensure it aligns with the cylinder head marks.

Once you have these aligned, then carefully slip the belt on, and check the marks again. Just one notch off will make a huge difference. Once you have it aligned, release the tensioner and you can actually try to start the car, but only let it run for about 5 secinds to make sure you have it aligned. That way if it doesn;t start, you will not have to remove everything again.

This procedure should cure your no start condition

Hope this helps -
calvin