Timing Belt replaced, won't hand-crank 360*

[marcusZee32]

So, I just finished installing a new OEM timing belt, perfectly aligned on all 5 marks with cyl.1 on TDC.
Before adjusting the auto-tensioner to finish the job, I'm not sure if I came across a problem.

I can't rotate the crank by-hand a full 360*. It stops after turning about 2/3 of a rotation in either direction. The car is in neutral, and again all 5 timing marks are aligned with the TDC notch on the oil pan.

Is this, normal? Or is it possible that something is off? Just wanna be sure before I even dare put everything back and start the motor. Thank you.

[amiry36]

If all 5 marks are properly aligned, then the timing is right and you shouldn't have valves hitting pistons. That resistance that you get from turning the crank is actually your cylinders trying to create pressure in the combustion chamber, and the camshaft's lobes pushing on hydraulic lifters and valve springs which is opening and closing the valves, and that is good and nothing to worry about. While you are turning the crank, you will feel the resistance and after a little turning, the engine would turn a little by itself. So dont get scared haha.

[marcusZee32]

hmm, alright. thanks man. just seems weird because the crank literally won't budge after turning it just a little bit, unlike how it was free to spin before removing the old timing belt.

[amiry36]

Yes it is a little weird. But the crank would go back into the same smooth feeling as it was before after turning the engine a couple times.

[marcusZee32]

alright, so the engine won't start.

it tried to turn over just once, and didn't even come close to starting...

[amiry36]

It wont start or will it not turn over?

[nissanfreak12]

If you cant turn it by hand the belt is not on correctly. Count the cogs, they need to be perfect/ If you have resistance with the plugs out, there is a problem. If plugs are in, you will be able to "bounce" at the resistance, if its any harder than that, DO NOT FORCE IT. You will cause engine damage.