I am about to embark on the replacement of the timing belt and water pump for the family Honda CR/V. It seems the check engine light has started to blink...and well...the codes are misfire 1,2,3,4...so timing is off. Seeing that the Honda just turned over 180,000 miles, it is way overdue for the timing belt to be replaced. The water pump will get replaced because you might as well if you are in the neighborhood. The water pump is actually driven off the timing belt for this Honda CR/V. I've picked up the parts from Autozone already, about $50 for the water pump including the o-ring gasket, and the better part of $100 for the timing belt and tensioner (again - I'm replacing the tensioner because I will be in there - might as well).
There's some good information on timing belt change procedures on the internet, Autozone actually has the procedure with nice clear photos and drawings. I know from talking with others and doing a bit of reading that this procedure is a pain in the ass. Tight quarters...metric bolts...and stubborn pulleys. Still, I have about $150 into it in parts, and shouldn't have to rent any tools (reminder...need to borrow Bob's torque wrench and strap wrench...). The Honda Dealer wants $650 and the local mechanic wants $400 plus. So, if all goes well, I should be back in business for another 100,000 miles on the Honda engine and feeling good about saving at least $250! Look for my future post on how the whole experience went down.
