Is a timing belt change something that can be tackled by two smart people (with no timing belt
changing experience) in a driveway with a Haynes?
The extent of my mechanical experience is front 4th gen brakes and getting under the car to do
things like oil changes and tranny oil changes. But I feel mechanically inclined as long as proper
instructions are given.

Is it best not to get my hands dirty in this case?

P.S.: I know I could have posted this in 3rd gen, but I thought that casting a broader net in General Forum might get me some responses from anyone who's done a timing belt change, not just 3rd gen owners.

 

with the experience you listed i would say no. 1st thing that's a must is a FSM..factory manual. the hayes is ok for minor stuff..but for a timing belt you better pick up a FSM. if you make a mistake in lining up the cams or belt..or mess up on the belt tension you have yourself a expensive paper weight. it's your call if you want to take that risk. i did a timing chain* on a 4cyl b4 and i decided to go to the dealers and get the timing belt done by them.

 

You have to remove the right front quarter panel to get at it. I don't know from experience, I have just had mine changed twice. There are some people on here who have done it before though. Try searching for it. CS

 

You have to remove the QUARTER PANEL??!! That's nuts. No way I'd attempt that.

 

i don't believe you have to pull out the front fenders. (i'm assume that's what u mean..the 1/4 panel is the back part)
the frame behind the fender would get in your way anyway. now if you're chaning out your cams...you might need to move that fender.