The belt is tightened automatically by the belt tensioner. If the belt is too loose, it's time to replace it.
The belt is tightened with an adjusting screw.
A 1998 Mercury Mystique with the 4-cylinder 2.0 DOHC appears to have a non-interference engine. Therefore, if the timing belt breaks, there should be no damage to the valves/pistons.
Is it safe to drive my 2000 Mercury Mystique with a bad timing belt?
According to Gates ( they manufacture timing belts etc. ) starting with the 1998 model of the Mercury Mystique - it shows to inspect the timing belt at 120,000 miles and replace if necessary on the 2.0 L - 4 cylinder engine
A 1998 Mercury Mystique , 2.5 liter V6 has : ( 1 timing CHAIN to each cylinder head , so there are 2 timing CHAINS )
On a 1998 Mercury Mystique , 2.5 liter V6 engine : NO timing belt ( it has 1 timing CHAIN to each cylinder head , so there are 2 timing CHAINS )
need a special tool to lock in the cams. lock key sits at the twelve o'clock position.
According to the 1996 Mercury Mystique Scheduled Maintenance Guide : The timing belt for the 2.0 liter four cylinder engine is changed at : ( 60,000 mile intervals )
theres no way to tighten it you will have to buy a new belt
Diagrams for timing belt marks for 1999 Mercury Mystique cars are great for mechanic's. If they need to replace a timing belt the diagram can show pictures of how the parts are set up to make sure they are fixing the timing belt correctly.
When the timing belt breaks on a 1998 Mercury Mystique, the engine will immediately lose its ability to run, leading to a complete stall. Depending on the engine type, this can result in serious internal damage, such as bent valves or damaged pistons, especially if the engine is an interference type. Repairing the damage often requires extensive work, including replacing the timing belt and any affected engine components. It's crucial to address timing belt maintenance regularly to prevent such failures.
The belt manufacture recommends replacing the belt on the 2.0L 4-Cylinder at 60,000 miles.