lichtman

Hi All,
Just getting ready to replace the timing belt on my 02 TL-S. So far I'm planning on replacing the following:
- Timing belt
- Water pump and Gasket
- Idler Pulley
- Tensioner Pulley

Possibly replacing:
- Camshaft seals.
- Crank seal
- Hydraulic tensioner

My main question is whether the hydraulic tensioner is worth replacing? The service manual just shows re-using the existing one after compressing it with a shop press. If it's worthwhile I'll replace it, but $160 will buy a lot of beer if that part never fails. The side question is wether the crank and camshaft seals should be replaced while I'm there. I had the crank seal replaced 100k age when the timing belt was done.
Thanks in advance!

zeta

iTrader: (1)

IMHO, You should make every effort to replace the hydraulic tensioner while you are there.
Rockauto has the Aisin for $66.79 before shipping.
You'll still have roughly $90 for beer and peace of mind.


I'd only change the cam & crank seals if they showed signs of leaking, YMMV.

lichtman

Thanks for the info! do you happen to know if the Aisin is OE for our cars? I'm a big believer in OE especially If I can buy the part direct and not from Honda.

zeta

iTrader: (1)

The Aisin kit below is the OEM equivalent most people use, including myself, rather than spend big $$$ on Acura / Honda boxed components.

Jon M

Agree with Zeta. Replace the tensioner. I also agree do not change the seals unless you see a leak.

lichtman

That's lovely gents. Thanks so much for the advice! Got the Aisin kit on the way now.

bbsitum

I went cheapo replacing only timing belt 5 years ago. Paid price past year when timing belt broke.