Free instructions on how to remove and replace water pump and timing belt on a 2.4 liter 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser

youtube has videos on this subject which are very helpful

you must remove the timing belt cam gears and rear timing cover recomend replacing timing belt tensioners and all idler pulleys at same time, (this job takes me 4 hours and i remove the radiator condensorassembly to make it easier) you could damage you engine if you dont install your belt correctly.

first off your one brave soul to undertake this project. the water pump calls for 9.3 hours. its part off the timing belt operation and should be replaced as well.

I think you can reuse the gasket (rubber) just take out the bolts and position it out of the way enough to get plugs in and out. Be sure to replace the timing belt, tensioner and water pump at 90k miles....or youll be sorry.

some people dont bother to change the belt at all(NOT RECCOMMENDED) so, as long as you dont redline it in every gear,it could go on for a lot longer(i hope...)
feedback??

Asked under 2001 Category for a 2002 Question.

Click on the following free direct Link. It has the correct Serpentine/Drive Belt Diagrams for your 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser 2.4L DOHC In-Line 4-Cylinder Engine with the Engine Options (AC/No AC etc.). It also has Instructional and Directional Diagrams inorder to remove and/or replace the Belt(s).
Note: the differences between the Automatic Tensioner and those Tensioners with Adjusting/Locking Bolts/Nuts

http://www.2carpros.com/car_repair_information/year/2002/make/chrysler/model/pt_cruiser/2002_chrysler_pt_cruiser_drive_belt_routing_diagram.htm

Let me know if this helped, or if you have additional information questions. Feel Free to contact me at FixYa.com!

Replace the belt at 100k with a new water pump pulley and tensioner. It would not be a bad idea while u r in there to replace the center motor mount. When the mount fails it is a pricey fix not a bad Idea to replace it since you have to remove it to do the belt.

Check your oil dipstick for coolant, or a mucky substance. Your symptoms sound like a blown head gasket.

It's a pain to get out I just did mine belt and water pump it took about 3 times as long as I thought.
Make sure all the bolts are loose, make sure you have removed the tranmission mount as it gives you more room to move the engine. It's suggest you take the exhaust off as well as you can damage it if you jack the engine up too high. Lossen the bolts on the motor mount across from that plate, you will not be able to remove the motor mount but you can spin it allowing you to get that big plate out.

PM dhirst on ptcrew.com if you want some pics or more instructions.

you need to drop the sub-frame. thats the only way