new timing belt wearing very fast.

[sg.sam]

I recently purchased a 2002 Rodeo S 4 cylinder. The truck had about 44k on it when I bought it last month. The guy I bought it from told me he had just had all the belts replaced, including the timing belt... I decided to check my oil this morning after a 300 mile trip. I noticed some hair like fibers on the front of the engine. After further inspection, I could pull the plastic back some and I noticed that the timing belt is getting worn down from the side. In other words, it's about half as wide as it should be.

I haven't completely taken it apart, I just pulled the plastic cover back enough to look down in there. I'm scared to even drive this thing to the garage about 1.5 miles away. Does anyone have any clue what my problem could be?? Sorry if this is a common problem, but I've search and have came up with nothing. Thanks in advance.

[Cat Fuzz]

I'm thinking seized idler pulley. Do not drive it. The 4 banger IS an interference engine.

[sg.sam]

thanks for the fast response. If a pulley was seized wouldn't that generate enough heat to smell or something?

[Andie_J]

Look as see if any of the pulleys or the hormonic balancer is out of line. If so they would make the belt try to run off them and eat them up form the side. Andie

[Scrapper]

i just wander if he got the right timing belt? i would also see if belt is in line on the pulleys. also did he put a new water pump on it when he changed timing belt.

[FL 3.2L]

Originally Posted by Cat Fuzz

I'm thinking seized idler pulley. Do not drive it. The 4 banger IS an interference engine.

This needs repeating. Do not drive it to the shop. Tell the shop it isn't to be driven or they will be providing head work at no charge.

[95.5 Rodeo]

I am wondering if the replacement timing belt was installed correctly. Timing belts are directional. The original Isuzu belt on my 3.2L had arrows that point to the front of the engine. The replacement Gates belt has markings that line up with the timing marks on the pulleys / heads & crankshaft / block. I am thinking if the belt was installed "backwards" it may try to walk off of the pulleys leading to the wear you are experiencing.

Like the others have said, dont start or drive it. Tow the vehicle to a reputable shop and get the problem resolved.


Good luck,
Dale

[95.5 Rodeo]

I wonder if this guy was able to get the problem solved...