Hey, i own a1990 audi 90 (5cyl. 3spd AT)with 187,000miles,and was just wondering if i would be able to change the timing belt by loosening the tensioner and slipping it off and putting a new one on. Just wanna get it done for preventative care, last owner didn't know of it being changed in the last 50,000 miles, n i figure $18 is better than getting the head torn apart. thanks

-zach

 

its harder that it looks, you need to remove the bottom pulley. losen the tensioner, then swap the belts while keeping the timing points as they where.

 

if you're going through the trouble of changing the timming belt ... then change the water pump, cam and crank seals, pulley and the thermostat is near by too .. this may cost more but will save you lots of work later on

 

hey, thanks for the how-to and the info about the other parts to look into, hopefully i don't muck anything up too bad when i try to do it.

 

good luck and if u need more help ..... ask

 

On the 5-cyl you need a crank lock tool, without it you are just asking for trouble.Check on eBay you might find one cheap, I think that I paid close $100 for mine, money well spent. Why? The bolt is tightened to 250ft-lb and you will need a long 1/2” or ¾” breaker-bar and the right socket.