Checking Timing Belt Alignment --Different Ways?

[WhyNot]

can i check the timing belt alignment without using the mark on the cam and head?
im just looking to verify that the belt hasnt slipped a tooth on a car im helping troubleshoot.
what position should the cam be in when viewing it ?
i just dont want to remove all the stuff in the front of the motor if there is another way.
thanks

[paperplane94]

Better to use the marks.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_XCMSF2wQLE

[jlevie]

The only way to verify timing is by use of the cam sprocket and and crank marks. The only parts that have to come off for a check of timing are the distributor and upper cover.

[WhyNot]

The only way to verify timing is by use of the cam sprocket and and crank marks. The only parts that have to come off for a check of timing are the distributor and upper cover.

i have never done a timing belt on an e30 so im a little short on knowledge.
do i need to remove the radiator and hoses?
the belts for ps and ac can all stay on?

[bmwguy325is]

If you are doing a new belt install you need to strip the front of the motor. The v-belts will have to come off. and seeing how the water pump is there a lil coolant may be spilt.
Im sure some one on here can lead to a bently manual download page

[PNWDan]

You need to remove the radiator, hoses, belts, etc. Better to do the water pump at the same time. Its a pain to do later. Its a straight forward job. Just takes time and labor to get to it

[jlevie]

i have never done a timing belt on an e30 so im a little short on knowledge.
do i need to remove the radiator and hoses?
the belts for ps and ac can all stay on?

One more time...

Those don't need to come out to check cam timing. Only the upper timing cover needs to come off.

[WhyNot]

thanks for the replies.
i onlt wanted to check it and not replace it.
got it done in the 105+ heat.
at least the beers kick in hard in the heat.