'92 Jetta-Timing belt change now high rev: HELP!!!

[Rajab]

Good day,

I've had my timing belt problem semi-resolved, the car at least stars now, but it revs high 1200 rpm and the catalytic converter is shaking and making a 'tinging' noise. The norm rev for this car before the belt was changed was between 900 rpm - 1000 rpm. There is also a strong exhaust smell in the front end. The exhaust from the tailpipe smells fine though. I suppose I could best describe the car as sounding a little violent when it is running. So are my valves and pistons OK, or does this sound like a sick and damaged engine.

Thanks,
Rajab

[veedubmechanic]

timing is problably off or catalytic converter is bad

[Doug Tatham]

1. check the 3 bolts that hold the exhaust together on the downstream side of the cat converter.
2. It sounds like you got the timing marks off. Marks that should be checked:
On flywheel (plastic threaded cover on front of trans) check to see that wedges are aligned.
On backside of cam gear: dot even with front edge of valve cover
On front side of cam gear: T/O line matches plastic piece in front of valve cover.
3. Adjust dist as necessary based on timing light.

[Rajab]

Good day,

Thanks to everyone for your advice. I went back and made the recommended adjustments and everything is fine now. I found that when I lowered the car off the jack the noise from the catalytic converter was also gone. (it must've been rubbing against the stabilizer bar.)

Appreciate the help!!!
Rajab