Subject: 1.8 liter timing
Question: 1994 Mitsu eclipse 1.8 liter auto. timing belt I am working on two 1.8 liter engins. How important is it to align the timimg mark on the oil pump when changing the timing belt? Before I remove the original belts --on both engins the oil pump timing mark is about 30 degrees past the marks on the engin. Also on one the balance belts is out half a tooth.
Thanks,
larry
Answer: Larry,
The if the timing marks are not met correctly on the oil pump sprocket, that will through off your balance belt, and your car will not run smooth.
Your camshaft/crankshaft sensor may retard your timing, and your acceleration can be limited.

If the engines were running well before the old belts were removed, and you will be reinstalling those old belts back on the car, then you can probably get away with putting the old belts back on with the same orientation. But if you're installing new belts, you will definitely want to make sure ALL timing marks are aligned; on the camshaft sprockets, the crankshaft sprocket, and oil pump sprocket. It is important. It's CRITICAL on a 2.0L engine, but even the 1.8L engine will benefit from the correct timing and alignments.
Good luck!