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I have a Ford Escort 98 stick. The tensioner for the timing belt has needed to be replaced twice in the last few months. What would cause it to keep breaking??? Is it the shops fault or is there something else probably wrong which is causing this. Also, before I take it back to the shop how do I tell if that is the reason my car is broken down AGAIN. I don't want to take it to that shop unless I know that is what is wrong with it because if it is something else they will charge me over 100$ for diagnostic. If that is the problem though they have to fix it for free due to the warranty on the work and parts. Thanks  

hmm... what  broke????




check the installation instructions..     i have not personally ran across a broken tensioner on one of these..

http://www.autozone.com:80/autozone/repairinfo/repairguide/repairGuideContent.jsp?pageId=0900c1528008daae



i have run across broken tensioner on other cars... where installers did not understand that the spring sets the tension.. and then you lock the tensioner base tight..

if overtightened... the spring will be under too much tension and the tensioner may break..

it can also damage the cam shaft and cylinder head cam bore area.. with too much downward force...  

2.0L Engine
SOHC ENGINE

See Figures 11 and 12

Remove the drive belt and timing cover.
Raise the car and support it with safety stands.
Remove the right-hand splash shield and the crankshaft pulley.





Fig. Fig. 11: The timing marks on both the camshaft and crankshaft pulleys must be aligned like this before removing or installing the timing belt-2.0L SOHC engines

Align the timing marks as illustrated in the accompanying illustration.
Refer to the accompanying illustration and remove the timing belt as follows:
Loosen the timing belt tensioner bolt (1).
Use an 8mm Allen wrench, and turn the tensioner (2) counterclockwise 1 / 4 turn.
Insert a 1 / 8 inch drill bit in the hole (3) to lock the belt tensioner in place.
Remove the timing belt (4).






Fig. Fig. 12: Remove the timing belt by following these 4 numbered steps (refer to the text for an explanation)-2.0L SOHC engine

Inspect the belt for damage and signs of oil leakage.

To install:
Install the timing belt over the sprocket in a counterclockwise direction starting at the crankshaft. Keep the belt span between the crankshaft and camshaft tight when installing the belt over the camshaft.

Install the timing belt and remove the drill ***
Tighten the tensioner bolt to 15-22 ft. lbs. (20-30 Nm).
Rotate the engine two complete revolutions and make sure the timing marks are aligned.
Install the timing belt cover and crankshaft pulley.
Install the right-hand splash shield and the drive belt.
Start the car and check for proper operation.