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ZUKIWORLD Discussion Forum => Suzuki 4x4 Forum => Topic started by: synergy_58 on December 18, 2005, 05:36:14 AM

Title: timing belt service - 97 geo 2-dr 4x4 soft top-Want Hard Top-which one?
Post by: synergy_58 on December 18, 2005, 05:36:14 AM
Hello to all.

I recently purchased a 97 GEO Trackless (soon to become Trackmore) 2-dr soft-top 4x4 with 90k and in GREAT shape.  The other day, at 91k, the check engine light came on, I'm assuming Timing belt service.  Is there any info here that descibes the steps to replace it? 

Also, can anyone recommend a good compnay for a two piece hard top?

Mine is a hunter green with tan soft top, tire cover, lettering, etc... factory.  Anyone else have this color combo?

Thanks!!!
Title: Re: timing belt service - 97 geo 2-dr 4x4 soft top-Want Hard Top-which one?
Post by: wildgoody on December 18, 2005, 09:56:26 AM
Those color combos where more common on
Trackers than on SideKicks, green/tan, white/pink
white/lt blue, ect.  No wonder they get called Barbie
cars  :(  stupid GM trying to market to younger girls
I guess

Title: Re: timing belt service - 97 geo 2-dr 4x4 soft top-Want Hard Top-which one?
Post by: toolman21 on December 18, 2005, 12:54:46 PM
The ones that got me where the light blue with light blue wheels those were...well...blue I guess. :D
Title: Re: timing belt service - 97 geo 2-dr 4x4 soft top-Want Hard Top-which one?
Post by: ack on December 18, 2005, 01:23:28 PM
Hello to all.

I recently purchased a 97 GEO Trackless (soon to become Trackmore) 2-dr soft-top 4x4 with 90k and in GREAT shape.  The other day, at 91k, the check engine light came on, I'm assuming Timing belt service.  Is there any info here that descibes the steps to replace it?  Thanks!!!

Although it's a good idea to change the timing belt, I'd find out what OBDII code is causing the Check Engine Light to come on.  The folks at your local AutoZone store can do that for free.

Changing a timing belt is pretty straighforward with the following important piece of advice:

1.  DO NOT remove the bolt in the end of the crankshaft in order to remove the harmonic balancer!  There are 5 small bolts that hold the harmonic balancer onto the crankshaft sprocket.  Although they are somewhat difficult to get to (removing the fan shroud will give you more working space), If you break the cranckshaft bolt, you just bought yourself a Galaxy of trouble.  Plus, removing the Crankshaft bolt isn't really going to help you get the timing belt cover off.

2. DO NOT rotate either the crank OR the camshaft pulleys during the installation of the belt.  AFTER you have the belt installed with no slack on the right side, you can set the tension pulley and then turn the crank 720 degrees (2 revolutions)  to make sure the tension pulley is set up correctly.

The Tracker/Sidekick Timing Belt replacement process is almost identical to that of the Samurai.  There are several places on the Internet that have a downloadable copy of the Samurai FSM in PDF format. If you are using a dialup connection, you can get a Haynes or Chilton's manual at your local auto parts store to use as a guide -- assuming you follow the two points outlined above.  A Chilton's Total Care Care CD - Import Trucks and SUVs is also a good (and inexpensive) source of service information.

Finally, check out my site (search FSM) and to purchase your copy of the above-mentioned Chilton CD.  The link is in my signature, below.
   
Title: Re: timing belt service - 97 geo 2-dr 4x4 soft top-Want Hard Top-which one?
Post by: synergy_58 on December 19, 2005, 05:51:55 AM
Ack,

Thanks for the info.  I've been checking out your site, lots of handy info, NICE!  I can't seem to find a step-by-step description on a replacement of timing belts, is there one?

The Chevy dealer want's $575.00 plus tax and misc. shop fee's to perform this service!

I'm a novice mechanic and have only replaced belts on a Honda Civic and Ford Escort, never a GEO/Suzuki. I have heard that it's a lot more difficult on the Geo/Suzuki's;  So, I need a blow-by-blow.

Also, any ideas on a good hard top company?

Thanks.