DIY Timing Belt Replacement

Hi,
I replaced timing belt on my 2002 Forester yesterday. Only problem I
had was removing crank pulley. I tried conventional methods (strap
wrench/breaker bar), but could not budge bolt. I searched NG and
learned about the bumping starter method. I was very leary of this
method to say the least. I decided to consult my local imports
mechanic, he said he used the starter method whenever conventional
methods fail. He loaned me a breaker bar, mine was not long enough to
reach frame. I carefully positioned breaker bar, one end resting on
drivers side frame, making sure to keep bar parallel to crank pulley. I
removed plug wires from plugs, bumped starter once and bolt was loose.
Rest of job was fairly easy. I used OEM belt and water pump, as many
in this NG suggest. The belt has three marks that are aligned to crank
and cam sprocket marks. I used a T handle breaker bar in conjunction
with a hammer to tighten crank bolt during assembly. Got every thing
assembled, hit starter, and was a happy camper, car started and no leak
at new water pump gasket. Very productive day, I had to take out a
front axle and replace both CV boots before I started on timimg belt
job. Thanks to folks in this NG, both jobs went better than expected!

"phatirejunky" wrote in message

> Hi,
> I replaced timing belt on my 2002 Forester yesterday. Only problem I
> had was removing crank pulley. I tried conventional methods (strap
> wrench/breaker bar), but could not budge bolt. I searched NG and
> learned about the bumping starter method. I was very leary of this
> method to say the least. I decided to consult my local imports
> mechanic, he said he used the starter method whenever conventional
> methods fail.

I only did it once, on my daughter's first car, an old Toyota. It worked
fine but was scary - the front of the car rose several inches.

It's worth mentioning even here in a Subie forum that the starter method
can't be used on Honda products - those engines turn counterclockwise.

Mike