A garage just changed the timing belt and water pump on my 98
Pathfinder SE and now it drives like crap!
to be pushed much further than before. Again, there is a delay and
then the transmission frequently downshifts seemingly two gears causing
a big spike in RPMs. The vehicle also struggles to maintain highway
speeds without downshifting unless I am heading downhill. Lastly, when
it is accelerating I have to keep the gas pedal floored to keep the
transmission from downshifting prematurely. Besides ruining driving
pleasure, looking like a "boy-racer", and the stress on my transmission
this is obviously affecting my gas mileage. I am down to 13.5mpg
highway (from 15.5-16.6 prior).

The garage is going to take another look at it. PLEASE pass along any
advice/ammo to help me get this fixed right and quickly.

Thanks

agirard71 (AT) yahoo (DOT) com wrote:


They probably didn't use a dealer T-belt which has marks on it. The
aftermarket ones are unmarked and the marks on the engine cover are
confusing, it's REAL easy to get the belt off 1 tooth on the passenger side
camshaft going by the marks on the engine covers and they run exactly like
you describe.
--

Steve

http://www.atlantaracing.com

FYI: You were dead-on right. The garage did use an aftermarket belt
and got it off a few teeth. This mechanic said the engine cover didn't
have any markings and these particular belts did, but the marks weren't
accurate. Either way, he ordered a factory belt and is re-doing it
now. Thanks again.


Steve T wrote:

agirard71 (AT) yahoo (DOT) com wrote:

That's what I figured. The covers DO have marks but they are vague and often
not easy to figure out which way to time the passenger side cam. It's like
halfway between teeth and you have to know which way to be "off" the mark.

That will fix it, glad he's honest and is taking care of the problem!
--

Steve

http://www.atlantaracing.com