Over the weekend I replaced the timing package on my daughter's 2002 TLS.

It's not technically difficult, but limited working space makes it tedious.

You absolutely need the flywheel pulley holder tool (hex tool), two solid breaker bars, and a length of pipe to get the crank pulley bolt off. I used the hex tool and 1/2" drive breaker bar wedged against the lower control arm and a 3/4" breaker bar with about a 4' pipe to get the bolt loose. To install it you need a torque wrench capable of 180 ft lbs. With the proper tools removing and replacing it is easy.

Otherwise just follow the instructions in the manual. There are many small bolts (6mm) that use a 10 mm socket. I have a 1/4" drive socket set that is very useful for that. In reinstalling the bolts many are difficult to get started. I used a socket with stiff grease in it and an extension as a tool.

I also replaced the radiator hoses, coolant thermostat, coolant, and changed the oil and trans fluid.

It took two full days.

Reinstalling the serpentine belt is tricky. It is 14 mm but there isn't room to get a socket in there. I used a 14 mm box end wrench with a slight offset. I believe there is a Honda special tool for that and it would make it much easier. The tool I used works but the open end wrench part of the combination wrench hurts ones hand.

 

Good deal on doing it yourself. But 2 days

 

give him a break...LOL, congrats on doing it by yourself, and yes those 10mm cover bolts are a biatch! I also hated the 10mm bolt for the dipstick!

 

I think the actual timing belt could have been done in 1 day. Several hours on the first day were spent going out to buy parts and materials. Also I removed the spark plugs, which makes it easier to do the timing belt, but isn't necessary. Replacing the thermostat is surprisingly tedious. I found I had to remove much of the air intake system to get to the lower bolt. So at the end of the first day everything was disassembled and I had everything on hand to put it back together. However, there was a lot to reassemble on the second day, and I still had to take it out and warm it up before changing the oil and trans fluid.

 

Yes the dipstick bolt is difficult. I used a 10 mm greased socket and extension to get it started.

 

Yea its tricky till you know where its at and can do it by feel. I think the hardest 2 bolts are the back 2 bolts on the upper rear timing belt cover.

 

I give a break to no one!!! Now your on my radar

 

LOL..thats kool wit me I agree that the back cover bolts are a mutha as well.

 

Good on ya. In my younger days I'd tackle a job like that but these days as much as it pains to lay out the dough..off to the stealer.