Camshaft (Timing) Belt Removal

Overview

This procedure walks you through removing the camshaft timing belt on a Porsche 944 S2 with a 3.0L engine. The timing belt keeps the camshaft and crankshaft in sync, and removing it is essential for tasks like replacing the water pump or oil seals. Doing this right keeps your engine running smoothly and prevents costly damage.

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Tools Required

• Jack stands
• Floor jack
• Metric socket set
• Metric wrench set
• Flywheel Lock (P9206)

Parts Required

• Timing belt, 944 105 157 04 (if replacing)

Required Additional Procedures

Steps in these procedures are required to complete this process:

• Flywheel Lock Installation
• Locating and Setting Engine to Top Dead Center (TDC), Cylinder 1
• Air Filter Housing and Air Flow Sensor – Removal
• Air Filter Housing and Air Flow Sensor – Installation
• Distributor Cap and Rotor Replacement

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the Car

1. Disconnect the negative battery lead to ensure safety while working.
2. Follow this link to ensure this step – Locating and Setting Engine to Top Dead Center (TDC), Cylinder 1 – of the process is followed accurately. This positions the number 1 piston correctly.

Step 2: Install the Flywheel Lock

3. Follow this link to ensure this step – Flywheel Lock Installation – of the process is followed accurately. This keeps the crankshaft steady during the procedure.

Step 3: Remove Front Components

4. Remove the alternator and power steering pump belts by loosening their tensioners and slipping the belts off.
5. Follow this link to ensure this step – Air Filter Housing and Air Flow Sensor – Removal  – of the process is followed accurately. Remove them as a unit to access the engine front.
6. Remove the front engine cover (two pieces) using a 10mm (3/8 inch) wrench to expose the timing belt.

Step 4: Remove the Timing Belt

7. Follow this link to ensure this step – Distributor Cap and Rotor Replacement – of the process is followed accurately. Remove the distributor cap and the aluminum cover behind it to reveal the camshaft sprocket.
8. If reusing the timing belt, mark its rotation direction with a marker before removal.
9. Locate the spring tensioner (triangular front plate). Loosen (but don’t remove) the locknut and bolt on the side near the tensioning spring using a 13mm wrench.
10. Push down on the tensioner lever arm to release tension, then tighten the locknut and bolt to hold the spring compressed.
11. Slide the timing belt off carefully, avoiding twists if you plan to reuse it.

Step 5: Optional Component Removal (if Needed)

12. If inspecting or replacing the spring tensioner (e.g., for water pump or oil seal work), remove it by undoing the three bolts at the back near the engine block (not the face plate bolts).
13. If removing the camshaft belt idler, undo its retaining bolt with a 13mm wrench and slide it off.

Post Procedure Checklist

• Check that the timing belt is free of damage if being reused.
• Ensure the crankshaft and camshaft are still aligned at TDC.
• Verify no tools or debris are left in the engine bay.

Sources

• Clark’s Garage
• Pelican Parts
• Porsche 944 Workshop Manuals
• Youtube