Timing belt breakdowns can occur at any time on a Chevrolet Monte Carlo. If your timing belt breaks while you are driving, the consequences could result in injury or death. Regular timing belt maintenance and replacement will help ensure that timing belt related accidents are a rarity. Replacing a timing belt is not an easy task but it is absolutely essential to replace a damaged, overused or malfunctioning timing belt.
Make sure that the engine is turned off. Locate the hood release lever, which is in the bottom left panel directly above the parking brake. Move the lever to the left and make your way to the front of the car. Prop the hood open securely. Remove the negative cable attached to the battery.
You will need to remove the distributor cap in order to switch timing belts. The letters "DC" or "DC Cap" will be stamped on the cap (usually on one of the first pistons on the right engine wall). Use an adjustable socket to open the DC-stamped cap until it lines up with the 4.5 marker on the outside of the cap.
Make sure the distributor apparatus is fully aligned with the 4.5 marker. This indicates that the rotor piece is in the correct position, enabling you to use the first and third cylinder sets. Spin the bolts on the outside of the pistons a few times to verify that the engine is firing in the correct manner.
Remove the plastic housing that is above the timing belt by pulling and removing the small rubber stakes lined up along the side of the housing and the case in which the belt rests. Place it aside to replace later.
Remove your old timing belt and place it aside. Attach your new timing belt to the assembly inside the engine housing. Stretch the timing belt tightly over the rollers and secure it completely. Put the rubber housing back over the timing belt assembly and secure it in place. Restart your vehicle and listen to make sure the timing belt is positioned correctly.
