Tech Tips

Use this comprehensive information library whenever you need helpful hints from car repair professionals. Whether you are a professional or a DIY mechanic, you’re sure to find the tips you need to insure a job well done. Click here to go back to the previous page any time during your search.

Subaru

Strange Noises from the Distributor,
Subaru Models 85 and later with OHC Engines

Subaru 1985 and later overhead cam engines use a separate timing belt for each head. If both are not adjusted correctly, an interesting (and aggravating) problem may occur.

Symptom: Elusive, irritating noise from the distributor.

Probable Cause: Slack in a timing belt will allow the camshaft to kick back. This causes the distributor drive gear and driven gear to slap against each other. The resulting noise gets transmitted through the distributor shaft, making it seem as though something is wrong with the distributor.

Service Procedure: Adjust or replace the timing belts.

Parts Information:
026-0212 (1.8 L, right timing belt)
024-1046 (1.8 L, right timing belt tensioner)
026-0213 (1.8 L, left timing belt)
024-1008 (1.8 L, left timing belt tensioner)

026-0275 (2.7 L, right timing belt)
024-1078 (2.7 L, right timing belt tensioner)
026-0267 (2.7 L, left timing belt)
024-1080 (2.7 L, left timing belt tensioner)

NOTE: Subaru recommends that timing belts be replaced every 60,000 miles.
Source: Jim Bennett, Bennett's Automotive, Smyrna, Tennessee

Go back