I'm new to the forums, as well as a soon-to-be new driver, and I was wondering how hard it is to fix a timing belt on a 1994 3.5L Dodge Intrepid ES? I got the car for free from my grandparents, and honestly know little to nothing about cars. I looked it up online and I found a timing belt on Partgeek.com for 56 dollars, and I also need a new fender, since the guy that owned it before me had an accident with it, which I can buy new for 126, or used for 60. Thing is, I don;t know how to make the repairs. Should I maybe take it in and sacrifice saving money, or is this an easy fix?

 

You need a few special tools tochange the belt. One is a puller with a wide mouth a d short pull distance along with a metal insert that is inserted in the cam shaft. If the belt broke, there may be valve or piston damage due to valve slap.

It is also common pratice to change the water pump and tensioner when replacing the belt because the pump is driven by this belt. Expect to pay about another 200 for these parts. You will also need antifreeze and a few basic tools. The job is medium in dificulity and if you have never done anything like this yourself, you need to be honest with yourself and evaluate your ability. If you are mechanicly inclined, you may have no problems. If not, I'd say make sure there is someone with you before you try it.

The fender is a much simpler job. You may want to tackle it first to judge your abilies and go from there. If you do decide to try the belt, let me know and I will did up the part numbers for the special puller and rod.