Timing belt

CHERYL LAWRENCE

MEMBER
1997 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE

So, I was going about 90 on a freeway when suddenly my dash lights up like the fourth of July. The engine cuts out and I coast all the way off the nearest off ramp and into a parking lot. (My car is such a soldier) I get out and take a peek at my engine. Obviously not overheated so I know my timing belt snapped or just isn't gripping anymore. Well, from what I know, the Eclipse doesn't come in non interference. What are the chances I've only damaged the belt and not anything else, because as much as I love that little trooper, It's not worth repairing a timing belt, pistons, valves, water pump, and what ever else the mechanics decide they want to charge me for.

1 Reply

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

If the timing belt broke, then you would hear the engine rattling and knocking as it slowed down. If the engine just shut off, then it likely did not break.

This is an interference engine so when it is moving at 1000 or more RPM then when the belt breaks there is still going to be movement of the pistons and valves and they are going to contact each other.

So, I would suggest we start with two things.

First, we need to check for codes

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Next, we need to check the compression.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

If the belt broke, then there would be no compression if the engine turns at all.

So, let's start with this info and go from there.

Thanks

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