Symptoms
Unknown belt history, a cracked or glazed belt, or a noisy tensioner. The G13A is a non-interference engine, so a snapped belt strands you but shouldn't bend valves.
The fix, step by step
- Remove the fan, fan belt, crank pulley and timing cover.
- Line up the cam and crank timing marks, release the tensioner and change the belt and tensioner.
- Turn the engine by hand twice and recheck the marks.
- Replace the cam and crank seals if they're leaking, and check ignition timing afterwards.
- Use the factory service manual for the interval and torque values.
Tools & part numbers
- Socket set
- crank pulley holder
- torque wrench
- timing light
Where to buy the parts
Timing belt, 1986–89 G13ATrail Tough ↗Amazon ↗
Timing belt tensioner, 1986–89 G13ATrail Tough ↗Amazon ↗
Top-end gasket set, G13A (cam seal, valve cover)Trail Tough ↗Amazon ↗
Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for Suzuki SJ / Samurai parts →
Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.