Ford 2.3 / LRG-423 — Timing Belt Adjustment
Adjustments
For the Ford 2.3 / LRG-423, from the Ford service manual.
Applies to: Ford LRG-423 engine
Before you start
- Do not rotate crankshaft counterclockwise as the timing belt may jump a cog, putting camshaft out of time.
Procedure
- Loosen timing belt spring pivot bolt.
- Hold tensioner with Camshaft Belt Tension Adjusting Tool T74P-6254-A.
- While holding tensioner, loosen adjusting bolt and gradually release spring tension.
- Using adjusting tool, pry tensioner away from belt and while holding, tighten adjusting bolt.
- Install timing belt over crankshaft sprocket, then proceeding counterclockwise over oil pump and camshaft sprockets.
- Loosen tensioner adjusting bolt allowing tensioner pulley to press against belt.
- Rotate crankshaft two revolutions clockwise and bring slowly to number one cylinder firing position.
- Recheck timing mark alignment; repeat if not aligned.
- Rotate tensioner assembly against belt with torque wrench up to 40-45 N·m (29-33 lb-ft) and tighten adjusting bolt.
- Tighten adjusting bolt to 35-45 N·m (26-33 lb-ft).
- Tighten spring pivot bolt to 40-55 N·m (29-40 lb-ft).
Tools required
- Camshaft Belt Tension Adjusting Tool T74P-6254-A Amazon
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- Adjusting bolt 35-45 Amazon N·m (26-33 Amazon lb-ft)
- Spring pivot bolt 40-55 FridayParts $148.30 N·m (29-40 lb-ft)
Full service-parts list: Ford LRG-423 engine →
Source: Ford service manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.