I bought a fiat brava 1.2 80sx a couple of weeks ago as a non runner for spares, it is a 2000 model and really too good to scrap.
Previous owner changed timing belt but I think timing is incorrect..... car tries to start but wont run.

if I can get the engine sorted I will keep the car

I really need someone to have a look at it for me.... please..............

I am in Newcastle upon Tyne ( north east england ) if anyone can help I would really appreciate it .... I will pay the going rate of course..


thanks in advance

If you bought the timing tools you could check to see if the timing is out. The basic prinicple is 2 rods that go into the cylinders (and hence move up and down as the engine rotates) - turn the engine till the marks both line up (all pistons at halfway point). You should then be able to insert the cam lock (bolt type things) into the appropriate holes on the camshaft / head. If you can't get the cam locks in then the timing is incorrect.

I was going to try a cambelt change but bottled out as my car was a runner and didn't want to cock it up. As yours is a non runner - what have you got to lose??

You can buy the timing tools on ebay or shop4parts. If the timing is out - you'd be best off replacing the belt, although you may get away with the tensioner if this has only just been changed. For added safety you could change that too. Will probably cost you a hundred or so quid for the whole lot.

Good luck

Duggers

Do you not 'time' these engines like normal ones then Duggers ie firing on No.1 tdc (only asking as these cars are still new to me and you dont get to learn anything if you dont ask lol) I can strip and rebuild a 2.0ltr probe engine with my eyes closed lol.

fishpond47 said:

Do you not 'time' these engines like normal ones then Duggers ie firing on No.1 tdc

Click to expand...

no

all pistons need to be level, cams locked and cam sprocket loose until belt is tensioned.

if there is any tipex or paint marks on any of your belt pulleys, the 99% of the time its timed wrong

I have looked into checking the timing myelf ( which seems pretty straightforward ) however cost of timing tools is closer to £80 and this may not solve the problem...

I am guessing the timing is out but there could be oher faults, I would prefer an experienced mechanic to sort it out rather than spend money on what MIGHT be the problem.

thanks