How to thread timing belt behind harmonic balancer

[johnnyfd]

I'm looking for suggestions as to how to get the new timing belt onto the crank sprocket behind the harmonic balancer without removing the harmonic balancer and without twisting and straining the belt too much while trying to force it into place. I also don't want to get the belt covered in grime while trying to force it into place.
I don't know if I could still take off the harmonic balancer now that I have removed the old belt? What's the best method for preventing it from turning while removing the bolt?
I was thinking of removing the rear timing cover and disconnecting the motor mount while slightly lifting the engine as possible ways to get the belt by more easily. Would those two methods work? Other suggestions? Is this possible at all without beating up the new belt?

[abscate]

Before the RN engines (99-00) it is possible to thread the belt through past the interferences. The belt is tough and a bit of dirt amd twisting is fine, wipe down and/or air blast when done.

On the later engines, no. Harmonic balancer and belt guard have to come off.

[jreed]

Agreed with the above advice... I've been able to twist and slide the new belt into place. I've only done it two or three times but memory is that it seemed easier to reinstall the new belt than to get the old belt out.

[johnnyfd]

It's a 96 turbo. I know it's possible to get the belt by. What I really want to know is if I should go to the trouble of removing the things I suggested because it will make it easier on the belt. I have read that the fibers in these belts run lengthwise and can be damaged if strained laterally.

[rrres]

I was thinking of removing the rear timing cover and disconnecting the motor mount while slightly lifting the engine as possible ways to get the belt by more easily. ..

I don't see how this would work.

On my 99XC70, I did the twist and slide method. It wasn't easy especially since it was my first time doing it. It seemed counterintuitive but when I inserted the belt, the ribs were facing out as I was trying to slide the belt up the gap. What helped was knowing were the pinch points are. Take a look at this photo and imagine the obstructions as you're trying to wrestle the belt in there. Of course, you need to remove the guard first.

[abscate]

That’s the RN engine above where it is near impossible with the harmonic balancer on.

The -1998 engine is easier

[foggydogg]

Robert never pulls the balancer, and the only time I ever did was because the car came from the junkyard - literally - and the hood had been up long enough it rusted the crank sprocket.
Those belts are pretty tough, they can take a twist or 2.