Timing belt running off the pulleys

[mfealy]

I changed my timing belt as it was over due on a car I just purchased. So I ordered all the parts a new belt idler and tensioner rollers, bolts and a new water pump.

After stripping out all the old parts and fitting the new belt engine would start ok but belt would start to run off the pulleys. I rest the belt in the center of the pulleys and adjusting tension tighter still the same then let tensions off just small bit but the belt still decided to try and come off. So at that point I called it a night.

Any one have any ideas i think I will fit the tensions pulleys I have taken off back on to see if the belt stays on inline.

[Simon_P]

Start with the crank pulley which has a shoulder so could steer the belt if incorrectly fitted.

I would strip inspect and refit.

Just a thought

The belt doesn't necessarily sit in the middle of the pulley you should be able to see a witness mark where it usually runs. When you say runs off the pulley... How far off?

[mfealy]

I just have the belt on if I start the engine it will do a few turns then I have to turn it off as belt just keeps going off the top pulleys and idler and tensioner roller half way. I would say if I did not stop the engine it would come right off for sure.

This is with all the covers off and crank shaft pulley off as well

[Simon_P]

You need to put the crank shaft pulley on it holds the belt pulley in position.

Just be aware that the valves will be bent if the belt comes off

[mfealy]

i have not been back at the car since but have looked at the service manual i noticed the tension roller should have a spring. The tension roller i removed had no spring when i ordered the parts i did not know i would need a spring would it be safe to run the car with out the without the spring on the tension wheel and rely just on the bolt to keep the tension wheel in place ?