2021 Subaru Outback BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Timing Chain LH

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.
NOTE:
  • Be careful that the foreign matter is not into or onto the assembled component during installation.
  • Apply engine oil to all component parts of the timing chain.
  1. Install the side chain guide LH to the front camshaft cap LH.

    Tightening torque: 

    6.4 N.m (0.7 kgf-m, 4.7 ft-lb)

    G13948913Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  2. Prepare to attach the chain tensioner LH.
    1. Press the link plate (A) in the direction of arrow to insert the plunger (B).
      G13948914Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    2. In order to secure the plunger, insert a stopper pin (clips, etc.) with a diameter of 1.2 mm (0.0472 in) or less or a hex wrench with a diameter of 1.2 mm into the stopper pin hole.
    NOTE: If the stopper pin hole on the link plate and the stopper pin hole on the chain tensioner are not aligned, check that the first notch of plunger rack (A) is engaged with the stopper tooth (B). If not engaged, retract the plunger a little so that the first notch of plunger rack (A) is engaged with the stopper tooth (B).
    G13948915Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  3. Check that the alignment mark of the crank sprocket is located at the position shown in the figure. If not aligned, using the ST turn the crankshaft to align the crank sprocket alignment mark to the position shown in the figure.
    NOTE: This procedure is required to prevent the valve and piston contacting with each other in the next step.

    Preparation tool: 

    ST: CRANKSHAFT SOCKET (18252AA000)

    G13948916Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  4. Using ST1 and ST2, by turning the intake cam sprocket LH, align the alignment marks (protrusion) to the positions as shown in the figure.
    CAUTION:
    • When the intake valve and exhaust valve lift at the same time, the valve heads contact each other and valve stem may bend. Do not turn the exhaust camshaft LH.
    • Perform the operation carefully since the ST comes off easily.

    Preparation tool: 

    ST1: PULLEY WRENCH (18355AA000)

    ST2: PULLEY WRENCH PIN SET (18334AA020)

    G13948917Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  5. Using the ST and by turning the crankshaft approximately 200° counterclockwise, align the alignment marks of crankshaft key to the positions as shown in the figure.
    CAUTION: Never turn clockwise because the valve and piston may contact. Clockwise turn is allowed only when adjusting the key position precisely, after turning the crankshaft counterclockwise to bring the key near the position as shown in the figure.

    Preparation tool: 

    ST: CRANKSHAFT SOCKET (18252AA000)

    G13948918Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  6. Align the alignment mark (protrusion) of exhaust cam sprocket LH to the position shown in the figure.
    CAUTION: To prevent valve damage, turn the exhaust cam sprocket LH only within the range of zero-lift (in range where it can be turned lightly by hand).
    G13948919Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  7. Install the timing chain LH and the timing chain guide LH.
    1. Match the timing chain mark (deep blue) to the alignment mark of the crank sprocket.
    2. Match the timing chain mark (yellow) to the timing mark position of the intake cam sprocket LH.
    3. Match the timing chain mark (yellow) to the timing mark position of the exhaust cam sprocket LH.
    4. Install timing chain guide LH.

    Tightening torque: 

    6.4 N.m (0.7 kgf-m, 4.7 ft-lb)

    G13948920Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  8. Install new O-rings to the cylinder block LH.
    G13948921Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  9. Install the chain tensioner lever LH (A) and chain tensioner LH.

    Tightening torque: 

    8.5 N.m (0.9 kgf-m, 6.3 ft-lb)

    G13948922Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  10. Pull out the stopper pin from the chain tensioner LH.
    CAUTION: Confirm the following before pulling out the stopper pin.
    • Matching of the timing chain mark (deep blue) to the alignment mark of the crank sprocket.
    • Matching of the timing chain mark (yellow) to the timing mark position of the intake cam sprocket LH.
    • Matching of the timing chain mark (yellow) to the timing mark position of the exhaust cam sprocket LH.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.