Ford Focus (1998 - 2004) - 99 1.8 setting timing belt tension

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Fri 20 Nov 2009 12:36
99 1.8 setting timing belt tension - fredblogs
I need to change the timing belt on my Focus 1.8 tddi. This is a job I have done several times over the years without any problems and am quite confident about doing it. However, this is the first car I have had where a Clavis guage is needed to set the tension. I know these are expensive, and I can't find anywhere that hires them. I notice, though, on the Clavis website there is a formula for converting the frequency to a tension in Nm. I was wondering about using this and then setting the tension using a standard belt tension guage. Is this a good/bad idea, and how accurately would I need to weigh/measure the length of the belt? Are there any other ways to accurately set the tension i.e. without risking the belt failing or drastically shortening its life? Thanks
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Fri 4 Mar 2011 13:18
99 1.8 setting timing belt tension - timadeus

After 2001 an automatic timing belt tensioner is fitted. This can now be fitted to pre 2001 models so there is now no need for a clavis gauge. Just make sure that when you buy a belt kit it has the automatic tensioner as some come with the manual tensioner.For fitting instructions just follow the 2001 onwards manual.

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