Timing belt?

Need to replace timing belt

You need to hold the cam while installing the belt, if not it would skip.

This guide will help you replace the timing belt

https://www.2carpros.com/diagrams/mazda/protege/2003

TRy using some clips to hold the belt onto the cam sprocket while installing if there is noone to help you hold eht belt in place.

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros. Com. Here are the specific directions from Alldata for removal and replacement of the belt. Chances are you are missing one of the steps. I have attached all relevant pictures related to the process.

TIMING BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [FS]
Disconnect the negative battery cable.
Remove the CMP sensor and CKP sensor.
Remove the ignition coils.
Remove the spark plug.
Remove in the order indicated in the image above.
Install in the reverse order of removal.
Inspect the air gap.
Adjust the drive belt deflection/tension.
Start the engine and:
1) Inspect the pulleys and drive belt for runout and contact.
2) Inspect the ignition timing.
Crankshaft Pulley Removal Note

Remove the crankshaft using the SST.
Cylinder Head Cover Removal Note

Remove the cylinder head cover bolts a few turns in the order shown.
No. 3 Engine Mount Rubber Removal Note

Suspend the engine using the SST.
Timing Belt Removal Note

Install the pulley lock bolt.
Turn the crankshaft clockwise and align the timing marks.
Turn the tensioner clockwise using an Allen wrench.

Disconnect the tensioner spring from the hook pin.
Caution:
Forcefully twisting the timing belt turning it inside out, or allowing oil or grease an it will damage the belt and shorten its life.

Note:
Mark the timing belt rotation on the belt for proper reinstallation.
Tensioner, Tensioner Spring Installation Note

Measure the tensioner spring free length.
If not within the specification, replace the tensioner spring.
Free length 36.6 mm (1.44 inch)
Install the tensioner.

Rotate the tensioner.
If tensioner rotates with no resistance or does not rotate, replace the tensioner
Timing Belt Installation Note

Verify that the timing belt pulley mark and camshaft pulley marks are aligned with the timing marks as shown.

Install the timing belt so that there is no looseness at the idler side.

Turn the crankshaft clockwise twice, and align the timing marks.
Verify that all timing marks are correctly aligned.
If not aligned, remove the timing belt and repeat from Step 1.
Caution:
Be sure not to apply tension other than that of the tensioner spring.
Turn the tensioner clockwise using an Allen wrench.

Connect the tensioner to the hook pin.

Turn the crankshaft clockwise twice, and verify that all timing marks are aligned.
If not aligned, repeat from Step 1.
Cylinder Head Cover Installation Note
Verify that the grooves on the cylinder head c over are free of oil, water and other foreign material.
Install the cylinder head cover gasket into the cylinder head cover.

Apply silicone sealant to the cylinder head as shown.

Tighten the cylinder head cover bolts a few turns in the order shown
Crankshaft Pulley Installation Note

Install the crankshaft using the SST.
Water Pump Pulley Installation Note

Install the water pump pulley by facing the "F" marks outward.

I hope this helps. Let me know if you have other questions,

Take care,
Joe

The crank will stay still for the most part you should not have slack. Did you match the old belt to the new one to make sure you have the correct one? Also, can you shoot some pictures or a video of what you are talking about so we can see you can upload it in your reply?

Nice work, we are here to help, please use 2CarPros anytime.

Cheers, Ken

Hi there,

If you don't know when the belt was last changed I would be getting it done now, a broken timing belt will do serious damage to your engine, don't second guess this be safe and do it now, normally there are no signs that the belt is worn to the point of breaking that is readily seen, you will have no pre warning when it fails.

Mark (mhpautos)

Well they took it off to do the timing belt, so they should of tightened it back up again. Yes I would think that they should of repaired it at no charge.

Cosmo. Mazda Tech

Hi there,

The data base doe not make a mention of this engine being an interference type engine, but I would recommend that you change the timing belt before it fails it is not a huge job and it will save you the inconvenience of breaking down (at always the most inconvenient time) and towing costs, do it now and don't get caught out later.

Mark (mhpautos)

Here is a guide to help you see where the camshaft timing marks are

https://www.2carpros.com/diagrams/mazda/protege/200

Check out the diagrams (Below). Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.

Cheers