2002 timing belt / valve problem - how much trouble to fix myself?

[rfostrow]

OK, so at 62,000 miles my timing belt broke on my 2002 Rio. I've heard that this usually destroys the valves. So... how much trouble am I getting into if I fix it myself. I'm pretty competent with things mechanical. Do I have to pull the engine or can I fix it in place?

[2004riotuner]

Well first thing is first.. Each situation is differant.. If the belt snapped when you were doing 75 on the highway it is sometimes differant then the belt snapping as you start the car up.. You'll have to remove the cylinder head and inspect the damage and then decide from there if you just need to replace the head or if you need another engine.

[sportage4x4]

more often than not, it is easiest to buy a complete cylinder head from the dealer. transfer over your existing camshafts. new gaskets, new head bolts, and a new NON OEM timing belt, and away you go.

[rfostrow]

Thanks for the reply. It snapped accelerating from a stop at a traffic light. I've moved it into the garage and will have the head off next week sometime.

[rfostrow]

Sounds like good advice. I take it you don't trust OEM timing belts.