2003 Mazda Protege sat idle for 3 months. Would not start. Repair shop got it started but says the Alternator and Timing Belt need replacement (Timing Belt is new as of May 2010). They want to charge $900. Thoughts/suggestions

Presuming the timing belt has not been removed or has skipped.
If the belt is removed or skipped this is an interference engine, valves and or pistons could be damaged by turning crankshaft, seek professional help.
Turn crankshaft clockwise and align timing marks (see jpg).
Face the marks (I) and (E) of the camshaft straight up, then align the timing marks with the horizontal surface on the cylinder head.
Pulley boss position pin on the crankshaft should be facing straight up.

This is only the beginning of an involved process, 3 pages in shop manual. I recommend getting a manual, many available on line. one typical Mazda 323 Protege Repair Manual 1990 2003
insure that the manual you get has info on your engine.

What about new spark plugs and wires?

Is the alternator belt still squealing? if so, tighten it. The light should go off unless your alternator is dead.

could have been a loose belt to start with. check alt and water pump. if alt is not noisey and charging. check water pump for leaks and noise. make shore belt is in good condision and the correct tension

Here is a website that a free manual can be down loaded for your vehicle


http://ezinearticles.com/?Find-the-Free-Auto-Repair-Manual-You-Need-Online&id=92717

Anywhere from now to 80,000.

Hello, this to me sounds like your fan belt slipping (not timing belt). To adjust the fan belt you need to undo your bolt on the alternator, pull it tight onto the fan belt and while holding it tight do the bolt back up tightly. this will stop yoour fan belt from slipping. I hope this helps.

Solution 1 would be to diagnose the problem of the low comp in 2& 3 and solve that issue. I would of started w the timing belt 1st. If that didn't solve it,ck head gasket, valves,rings. CK for oil & coolant mixing. Good Luck

Hi there...my name is Keith..and yes..you will have to take the surpentine belt off..and it no fun..but thats just what you will have to do..im sorry..and it will take some fussin and cussin ..or take it to a shop..im sorry i dont have a better outlook..and if you need further assistance..write me back

Thanks for update. That timing belt issue, was the first thing that came to mind, well let's hope they find problem. I'd make a point of showing the original mechanic the repair order/bill after to see what his response is, if it is the belt installed wrong. Keep me posted.