dh53

In the middle of changing the timing belt, I just reached the step to remove the 2 bolts holding on the tensioning damper. The upper bolt was missing. The lower bolt was only on by 2 or 3 threads, I just spun it out by hand with no effort. Because the bolt was loose it is all banged up and bent a little. When I measure it I get a diameter of 7mm. I've never heard of a 7mm bolt, I thought standard sizes were 6, 8, 10, etc.

Since the damper wasn't attached well but the car has gone at least 10k miles in this condition (if I can believe the previous owner) I have to wonder...what is the purpose of the tensioning damper?

Mister Bally

There are indeed odd number Metric bolts.

dh53

I have encountered odd numbered 3mm and 5mm bolts, just never seen a 7mm that I can recall. I even have some 1.5mm and 2.5mm in the cabinet for some reason, probably not automotive. I suppose when they get big they move on to 5mm increments? Anyway, big box store had plenty of 6mm and 8mm but no 7mm. The auto parts store had a few 7mm so I am bolting things on now instead of taking them off. Hoping to test drive tomorrow.