Step-by-step instructions for changing the timing belt on a Lada Vesta

VAZ passenger cars with front drive wheels use engines with belt driven camshafts. The use of an elastic drive made it possible to reduce the metal consumption of the structure and reduce the noise level during operation.

Periodic replacement of the timing belt on a Lada Vesta is one of the routine operations carried out by the owners independently.

What is a timing belt, what parts does it consist of?

The abbreviation GRM is short for “gas distribution mechanism.” This unit is present in all cars, with the exception of vehicles equipped with an electric motor. The timing belt supplies the fuel mixture to the internal combustion engine cylinders, providing the combustion chambers with the required volume of fuel at the right time.

Replacing the timing belt on Vesta. Photo source: https://www.drive2.ru/l/550002105566363649/?m=550012276048921087

The gas distribution mechanism consists of:

• cylinder head (head mounted on the cylinder block);
• valves;
• bushings;
• landing seats;
• camshaft;
• belt;
• tensioners;
• other elements (plates, springs, stoppers).

The timing belt ensures synchronous rotation of the camshaft (one or two) and the crankshaft.

Specifications

Standard belt with

AvtoVAZ equips the new Vesta with products from Gates or Contitech. The Gates consumable is installed on Lada Vesta with a 1.6-horsepower unit. Vestas with a 1.8 liter engine are equipped with a Contitech timing belt.

The price of both options does not differ much. The quality of the rubber is the same. The products are well packaged to prevent damage during delivery. Gates has protection against counterfeiting: each consumable is assigned an individual code, which is used to check the originality of the spare part on the official website.

Tests and tests

Experts from the Za Rulem magazine tested 36 drive belts - 6 copies of each from six different brands. The test results refer to specific product samples and do not allow us to judge the entire range of products of each item.

Recommended:

• Continental, Germany. Approximate price 850 ₽. There can be no complaints about a belt that has stood for 400 hours on the stand and could continue to work. In our tests, only two products were able to demonstrate this.
• Gates, UK. Approximate price 1150 ₽. 400 hours on the bench are sufficient grounds for unequivocal approval.
• Trialli, China. Approximate price 700 ₽. 286 hours is, let’s say, a strong middle peasant, which, unlike the leaders, nevertheless became toothless, although it lasted quite a long time, exceeding the requirements of the technical specifications. At the same time, strength tests have shown that some belt parameters are even better than those of the champions.

Didn't pass the test:

• Gates (fake with reference to Germany). Approximate price 350 ₽. Which is what needed to be proven: “You, priest, should not chase after cheapness.” After just 3 hours of life tests, the belt lost its “teeth”: a complete failure. Checking individual parameters confidently placed the product in last place: such belts cannot be installed!
• Lynx, Japan. Approximate price 650 ₽. During endurance tests, the belt lasted 104 hours, after which some of the teeth were cut off. In general, not so little, but the leaders worked four times longer and were not injured! The remaining parameters are not failures, but overall we are looking at an mediocre product.
• Balakovorezinotekhnika (BRT), Russian Federation. Approximate price 750 ₽. Just 1 hour on the stand instead of the champion 400 - what can I say? Alas, the teeth came off the cord almost immediately. It feels like the belts are made of raw rubber. Note that after drying, the cutting force of the tooth more than doubled - and this turned out to be the best result. But the breaking forces are low, and according to the results of bench tests - the penultimate place.

Will the Lada Vesta valves bend if the timing drive element breaks?

If the drive element breaks, the camshaft stops rotating, but the crankshaft continues to operate. The valves freeze and the pistons rotate. As a result, the cylinders hit the valve plates, deforming them and bending the rods.

The likelihood of a cylinder head cover breaking on 8-valve engines is significantly lower. The VAZ 11189 unit is equipped with mechanical protection: the valve plates are located so that the cylinders do not reach them even in the open position.

In addition to the VAZ 11189, the Lada Vesta is equipped with 16-valve engines VAZ 21129, HR16DE-H4M, VAZ 21179. A break in the drive element on such a Lada Vesta will lead to deformation of the valves and rods. Structural protection is not used on them, since as a result the size of the engine is unacceptably increased. Therefore, owners of Lada Vesta with a power of more than 100 hp. treat the unit with the utmost care.

Replacing the timing belt kit and pump on a Vesta. Photo source: https://www.drive2.ru/l/559873520960537283/

The Lada Vesta service book states that drive belts and corresponding rollers are not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. If the original consumable breaks down before the expiration of the declared service life, the dealership is obliged to repair the engine, since the breakdown is considered a warranty case.

Since mid-July 2022, Vestas with a 1.6 liter engine with grooves on the pistons began to roll off the AvtoVAZ assembly line. Specially shaped darts prevent damage to the valves when the timing belt breaks. Tests of improved piston geometry are also underway on 1.8-liter engines, but so far the exact timing of the implementation of the modernization has not been announced. Owners of Lada Vesta manufactured earlier than 07.18 replace the piston group themselves.

History of origin

Motor 21179 was already in the minds of the engineer much earlier than you can imagine. Even at the end of the USSR, developers began to think about the Lada C project and its power units. Even then, engineers “knew” this motor by its features and power characteristics. But the difficult economic situation of that time and the collapse of the USSR forced the engineers to completely forget the Lada-Ts project.

And now, after a long time, when Boo Anderson comes to the post of general manager of AvtoVAZ, the project is raised and developed again.

The main task was to create an engine with good low-end torque, which AvtoVAZ lacked for a confident, comfortable ride. “Tractor” 8-cl engines have long since become obsolete, but the new 16-cl engines had a more “sporty” character. The situation was corrected by the then 21127 engine, now 21129, which is installed on Vesta, Xray, and other AvtoVAZ models.

Due to the intake receiver with variable geometry installed on it, the torque from the bottom began much earlier, unlike the Prioromotor (21126), and its shelf was much further, right up to the cutoff. But with the start of production of a sedan with a larger mass - the Vesta, and the Xray hatchback - the need for low-end engines reappeared.

The engine was run in and tested for a long time. As a result, during the testing process it turned out that the rings were already stuck at 4t.km., as a result, the heat zone was increased and the problem disappeared.

Nissan HR16DE engine with 110 hp power. It copes well with its task on front-wheel drive. But if you have all-wheel drive, it will strain, get hot, eat a lot and not drive.

Another factor in the creation of the 21179 motor is economics and politics. Because the Nissan engine, although it is assembled here, still belongs to Nissan. And in the event of an unfavorable economic situation, an increase in exchange rates, the cost of its production and sale may simply be unprofitable.

How to check the timing belt on a Lada Vesta

You can check the drive element on the Vesta by removing the plastic engine screen and the protective cover. The link tension must be controlled. A sagging belt wears out faster, so when a weak tension is detected, the integrity of the rollers (tensioner and bypass) and the pump are monitored. Noise and backlash are not allowed.

Replacing the timing belt kit in the cabin. Photo source: https://www.drive2.ru/l/530858783493064633

Sticking tensioners will damage the rubber. Timing repair kits for Lada Vesta are more often found on sale, including rollers (tensioner and bypass). The unit is also replaced in the absence of external damage, if the service life declared by the manufacturer has come to an end.

Survey

We will determine the best timing kit, belt or roller by voting. Leave feedback in the comments, in which you can indicate:

1. Which timing belt and rollers did you choose and why?
2. How often do you change the rollers and timing belt?

Where can I buy? These and other original parts are presented at low prices in our online store:

We previously told you when to change the timing belt and rollers according to the manufacturer's regulations, as well as how to do it yourself.

Keywords: Lada Vesta engine | lada xray engine | Lada Largus engine | Lada Granta engine | Lada Kalina engine | Lada Priora engine | universal article

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Which timing kit is better to install on Vesta?

Preference is given to originals - timing belt repair kits with the AvtoVAZ logo (artikul 21126100604086 - for a 16-valve engine). If it is impossible to purchase them, buy an analogue:

• CONTITECH CT1137K1;
• INA 530053610;
• Gates K015631XS;
• Luzar LWP0128.

The products of all manufacturers show good strength characteristics and are resistant to wear. The main thing is not to run into a fake. Otherwise, the driver will have no guarantee that the replaced unit will last the stated period.

Four Well-Known Facts

The service life of the timing chain always exceeds the service life of the engine. This is the first fact, but a condition must be met: the oil change must be timely. In general, the circuit fails gradually, and this is accompanied by symptoms:

• Audible sounds (chirping) at idle speed;
• When the “problem area” passes, a phase shift may be observed.

The last defect is detected using computer diagnostics.

From the appearance of any symptom to the complete rupture of the chain, a certain time passes. And in general, a “defective circuit” can work for a long time. This was another, fourth fact.

Cost of timing belt repair kit

An original repair kit for a 16-valve Vesta engine costs from 3,000 rubles. The price of analogues takes the value of 2900-3700 rubles. Separately, the original timing belt (article 21126100604000) will cost 1,700 rubles. AvtoVAZ offers a reinforced version for 1900 rubles.

Replacing the clutch. Photo source: https://www.drive2.ru/l/538379992782864466

Along with the parts of the gas distribution mechanism, owners of the 16-valve Vesta often change the water pump. It is recommended to change the pump every 100 thousand kilometers, so installing a new pump is combined with replacing the timing drive element. A pump with the AvtoVAZ logo (artikul 21126130701082) costs 1,100 rubles, Luzar (LWP 01274) - from 950 rubles, Pilenga - 650 rubles.

The above figures are indicative and may vary from store to store.

Where can I buy?

Before starting work, you must purchase all the necessary components:

1. Timing belt;
2. Tension roller;
3. Bypass roller;
4. Water pump.

The table shows original spare parts with prices and articles

Do-it-yourself timing belt replacement

The procedure for installing new elements of the timing system is complex, which is why many car owners come to the service station with a purchased repair kit. You can change it at home if you can hang up the car engine.

Tools

To replace you will need:

• repair kit;
• torque wrench;
• wrench 17;
• set of socket wrenches;
• "Torx" of different sizes;
• hexagon 5 mm;
• a screwdriver or other straight metal object to fix the crankshaft.

For Vesta with engines 21179 and 21129, you will additionally need 2 mandrels: 67.7811-9516 for fixing the camshafts and a crankshaft lock.

Replacing the pump yourself. Photo source: https://www.drive2.ru/l/534644127149588753

The car is driven onto an overpass or inspection hole. On a Vesta with any engine, preliminary work is carried out: disconnect the car’s battery, hang the car on a lift, remove the right engine mount, front wheel, fender liner and mudguard.

"Vesta" with VAZ-11189 engine

Step-by-step instructions for removing the timing belt on an 8-valve engine:

1. Remove the engine cover.
2. Remove the timing gear drive protection by unscrewing the 3 bolts.
3. Turn the crankshaft by the bolt, placing the piston of the 1st cylinder in the uppermost position (rotate clockwise).
4. Block the crankshaft by inserting a screwdriver between the flywheel teeth. It is better to entrust this process to an assistant. You can also fix the crankshaft using the brake pedal, having previously placed the gearbox in 1st gear.
5. Unscrew the generator pulley.
6. Remove the generator pulley.
7. Check that the alignment marks match.
8. Loosen the tensioner.
9. Rotate the roller to loosen the drive element as much as possible.
10. Remove the timing belt.
11. Unscrew the nut and remove the tension roller.

Installation procedure for the repair kit:

1. Install new rollers and generator pulley.
2. Check that the installation marks match.
3. Place new rubber on the crankshaft pulley.
4. Replace the back half of the belt by pulling the rubber over the pump and around the tensioner.
5. Place the belt on the camshaft wheel at the front.
6. Rotate the tensioner until the timing belt is tensioned (rotation is counterclockwise).
7. Tighten the generator pulley fasteners.
8. Turn the crankshaft by the bolt and make 2 full turns (rotation goes clockwise).
9. Make sure that the installation risks match.

The timing belt must be tensioned carefully. If checking point 9 shows a discrepancy, you will have to remove the drive element and reinstall it.

Lada Vesta with VAZ-21129 engine

The procedure for working on a Vesta with a 16-valve engine is slightly different:

1. Remove the engine screen.
2. Remove both halves of the drive guard by unscrewing the 7 screws.
3. Remove the alternator belt.
4. Lock the flywheel with a screwdriver.
5. Remove the pulley (fastened with a bolt) and the support washer.
6. Move the piston of the 1st cylinder to the top point in the same way as step 2 of the previous instructions.
7. Secure the camshafts. For this purpose, equipment is used, consisting of polyurethane bushings and a bolt (art. 67.7811-9516).
8. Turn the tensioner bolt to loosen the drive element as much as possible.
9. Remove the timing belt (after which the crankshaft and camshaft cannot be turned).

Installation of the repair kit occurs in the same way as assembly of a Lada Vesta with engine 11189. Sealant can be applied to the threaded part of the rollers.

"Vesta" with VAZ-21179 engine

A 16-valve engine of this type does not have any marks on the camshafts. Therefore, special equipment is used to fix the camshafts: 67.7811-9516. The cost of the fixator is 600 rubles. It is difficult to install the device, because there is a drive disc on the intake shaft that covers the desired slot on the camshaft.

Timing kit. Photo source: https://www.drive2.ru/l/524187496691533747/

The following are subject to dismantling:

• drive belt;
• generator;
• generator bracket;
• air conditioning compressor;
• fuel rail;
• engine mounts;
• intake manifold;
• timing belt protective cover.

Sometimes you have to remove the exhaust pipe. The pulley on the crankshaft is secured against rotation by a special mandrel through the crankshaft sensor mount.

Otherwise, the procedure for removing and installing the timing belt is similar to that described in the instructions for other engines.

How to replace the Vesta timing belt without special tools

Sometimes stories appear on forums that it is possible to change the timing belt on a Lada Vesta faster and easier. It is enough to cut off with a knife and remove part of the old rubber, and pull a new drive element onto the crankshaft pulleys. Then remove the remaining half and put the new belt on all the way.

Using this method is strictly not recommended. Incorrect installation will result in accelerated tire wear. The risk of a sudden break increases significantly. In addition, a pulled roller knocks down the marks. The time saved is unlikely to pay for the engine repair.

How to adjust the tension roller

For the regulation process, you will need a device for dismantling the retaining rings (tongs), a socket wrench set to “10”. Stretching process:

1. Loosen the hardware securing the roller.
2. Insert the pliers into the recesses of the tensioner.
3. Rotate the roller until the groove in the outer casing aligns with the protrusion of the inner sleeve (turn counterclockwise).
4. Tighten the fastening bolt (tightening torque – 32 Nm).

At the end of the work, be sure to turn the crankshaft a couple of times and see if the installation marks match.

It is advisable to work with a torque wrench, since an overtightened tensioner will jam during operation. To determine if the roller needs to be loosened, look at the behavior of the bushing protrusion while the engine is idling. In normal condition, the tongue should tremble slightly. If the tab does not move, the roller will be overtightened. Video demonstrating how the tensioner works:

How to set timing marks

On a Vesta with a 1.6 liter engine there are 2 marks that must match:

• on the gear wheel and the antenna of the rear timing cover;
• in the slot of the inspection window located on top of the clutch housing.

After setting the marks, it is necessary to make 2 revolutions with the crankshaft to make sure that not only the marks, but also the rotation strokes of the shafts match. Since the crankshaft makes 2 rotations per camshaft revolution, it may turn out that if the marks coincide, the compression stroke is accompanied by an open valve, which destabilizes engine operation.

Installation of timing marks. Photo source: https://www.drive2.ru/l/481513801150103581

On engine 21179, the installation mark is present on the tensioner. The camshaft marks are located on the back of the cylinder head, to find them you need to:

• Remove the rubber plug on the exhaust shaft from the back of the cylinder head;
• on the intake, remove the receiver and valve cover, then pull out the plastic partition and rubber plug covering the end of the camshaft.

Setting in the required beat is ensured by a special tool that you can buy or make yourself.

How long will it take to repair

The time spent directly depends on the qualifications of the auto repairman. The longest work is replacing the drive element on a Vesta with engine 21179, but for a beginner, even repairing an 8-valve unit may seem like a labor-intensive process. Reinstallation cannot be abandoned; if the marks do not match, you will have to remove the drive element and reinstall it until the shafts fit correctly.

Preparing the car

• Open the hood of the car and remove the decorative plastic cover.
• Remove the protective fender liner installed in the arch of the right front fender.
• De-energize the on-board network by removing the terminal from the negative pole of the battery.
• To access the mounting points, you need to jack up the car and then remove the wheel.
• Install a safety support under the body sill to prevent the vehicle from falling if the jack slips or breaks.
• Using a 10 mm socket, unscrew the bolts securing the protective screen located under the engine.
• Loosen the bolt securing the pulley to the engine crankshaft. To perform the operation, you will need the help of a second person who presses the brake pedal.

If there is no assistant, then you need to unscrew the 3 mounting bolts and then remove the starter. To fix the crankshaft, use a screwdriver, which is inserted into the gap between the clutch housing and the ring gear on the flywheel.

• Place a jack under the engine crankcase, having previously installed a wooden spacer, and then remove the cover of the auxiliary drive belt tension roller. To reduce the tension, use a Torx T55 wrench and turn the roller bracket clockwise.
• Unscrew the bolts securing the engine mount; the power unit must be lowered to the ground by 50-70 mm, which will allow you to dismantle the roller and remove the belt from the pulleys. It is recommended to inspect the parts; if worn, a new set (belt and roller) is installed.