I'm trying to change my timing belt while the motor is still in the car however there's a problem. It seem like the idiot who previously changed the belt before overtightened the tensioner bolt. I tried to loosen it but then it started to strip. I don't understand why those tensioner bolts are so dam weak. Does anyone have a solution? I already tried a vice grip but its hard to get to when your working with the motor in the car.

 

What are we talking about here? Depending on your engine, there is a special tool that is made to fit in to your crank pulley to hold the crank steady while you bust that bolt out of there.

If you are stripping it, you are likely using the wrong size socket. I have never stripped one of those, although I have broken 2 ratchets, 1 socket, and 1 small breaker bar attempting to remove one for the first time (I made stupid mistakes for the sake of getting the job done free to me - Gotta love the craftsman warranty and having sears close by). Make sure you are using a metric 19mm socket, and remove it correctly. A good quality impact socket and driver works wonders.

See: http://www.hondatuningmagazine.com/t...ool/index.html

The crank pulley tool I use (with a long handle on the end propped against the pavement): http://www.amazon.com/Powerbuilt-648...9170270&sr=1-1

 

I'm talking about the tensioner bolt.....

 

haha, Im an idiot. I have no idea how I missed that. My bad man.

 

its cool... but yeah anyone with a similar problem please let me know how you got off the tensioner bolt

 

never the tensioner..ALWAYS the crank bolt

 

are you using a 6 point socket?

 

You can buy special sockets designed specifically to remove stripped bolts. For example, ones like these:

http://www.etooldirect.com/lisle-str...ource=googleps

Check at stores like Harbor Freight Tools, Sears, etc.

Once out, just but a new bolt.

 

make sure u are using a 14mm and not a 9/16". the 9/16" is slightly bigger and WILL strip it. if you use the proper size (14mm) it is impossible to strip. the socket will split before it strips the bolt. if it gets any worse to where a 14mm wont fit, get a 17/32" socket and hammer it onto the bolt and remove it, but you are gonna have to get a new bolt from honda to replace it then.

 

yeah I was using a 14mm with a rachet but its like its torque down way too much. Then it started stripping and I was screwed. I will try that 17/32 hammer method but the problem is that the frame rail is in the way so I cant get a hammer in there.. I was planning on getting a new bolt anyways after. I just wanna take off this thing!

 

try vice grips then. idk what else you can do. you could try heating up the block around the bolt with a torch.

heat the block, not the bolt.