if you take off the distributor cap and crank it should the rotor spin?if not is the timingbelt broke?

Answer 1

Yes

The timing belt rotates the camshaft. The camshaft rotates the distributor. If the distributor doesn't rotate when the engine is cranked, you have a bad timing chain or belt.

Depending on the vehicle, you could have more problems than this. Some engines are what are called zero clearance engines. They depend on the valvetrain to be in the correct position when the piston reaches top dead center to allow the valve to clear the piston. On this type engine, when the timing belt fails, one or more valves are not in the correct position then the piston reaches top dead center. The valve comes in contact with the piston, causing severe damage to the valve, piston, cylinder head, or all of these parts.

Not all engines are suceptable to this damage. But quite a few are.

You need to check for this damage before you replace the timing belt as you may also need a major engine overhaul.

Answer 2

Yes, it's a fairly simple procedure. I did this a few times on my old holden torana. If you have access to either the factory manual or an after-market manual (from K-Mart or any auto shop) will make it a lot easier, but the procedure is pretty much the same for all cars with a distributor-based timing system. The rotor should be quite easy to replace - simply pull the old one from the stem and insert the new one. There should be a slot machined into the rotor sleeve to ensure it aligns properly. One thing I would also be checking is the points gap, as this is the major adjustable component. The gap size for your car should be specified in the manual. It can be checked with a set of feeler gauges (few dollars at any shop which sells automotive tools), and adjusted with a few simple turns of the screw which locates the points assembly. Adjusting the points may be more effective than replacing the rotor/distributor. Hope this helps.

Answer 3

Yes, it should spin and, yes, it's likely the timing belt. Be careful, however, since some engines are classified as "interference" types, and breaking the timing belt while the engine is running will or can bend the valves. If you're going to replace the belt, ask your mechanic if it's an interference type engine.

Answer 4

The rotor should spin. It is most likely timing belt. possibly distributor but not likely. Good luck!

Answer 5

The rotor should spin, however if it doesn't I don't think that would necessarally mean the timing belt. Could also be a mechanical problem within the distributer.

Answer 6

Distinct possibly, or the pin that attaches the distributor shaft to the cams is broken. Though it is more likely the timing belt is broken. ouch, Sorry dude,

Answer 7

Sounds like you are on the right track to me, but you don't mention what vehicle you have or what engine. That will help determine whether it is a belt or cam or some other issue.

Answer 8

Usually this is an indicator of a broken belt

Answer 9

Or the camshaft is broke

Answer 10

your right i should move,,and yes its broke if it doesn't move,if yours is doing his then you need to replace it,,at least you knew to check that ,,good luck with it,,hope this help,s.,have a good x-mas.