I changed the timing belt on our 2002 PT Cruiser while replacing the crankshaft seal. I had done the timing belt twice before on other cars. I decided to try to start the engine after getting the belt installed and it ran very rough. After resetting the belt two more times it started and ran more smoothly. Is this because I don't have all the "stuff" hooked up or is there a timing issue. After the first to starts the camshaft marks were not 100 correct, but after the 3rd start they line up perfectly. Appreciate all the help. What a massive job!

 

yes needs to be 100% timed or will run bad.

 

OK. I took it back apart and the camshaft timing marks match up, but they appear to be to high. Putting a ruler across from the outside marks to the inside marks they are at an angle and to centered on the middle of the cam bolts. So I think I need to move them down a tooth or so. Hope this is it!

 

there are line up marks on the back plate and where the crank sprocket is at.