Do I have to remove spark plugs when changing timing belt

[CamryX]

I searched HOWTO for my 96' Camry (4 cyd) and all posts or manuals indicate spark plugs should be removed when changing timing belt. I don't know why doing so. If this is for finding out TDC, removing #1 spark plug should be enough. Actually DTC can be positioned by marks on pulley. As it needs special socket to remove spark plug, can I skip this step? Thanks for any input.

[carsrus]

No special tool to remove plugs.

Its to release compression while you turn the engine. If belt hasnt broken I wouldn't worry about taking them off. Mark the old and new belts and just slip is on with minimal turning of the engine.

[asphalt victory]

you could/should replace the water pump while your in there the new tention from the fresh belt could cause your water pump to fail

[Pvt-Public]

Sorry, but if you consider a spark plug socket a "special socket" or think that removing the plugs is too much extra work, you shouldn't even attempt a timing belt job. And as stated above removing the plugs make it much easier to turn the crank by hand.

[mail2_jb]

When I did my TB change, i removed the spark plug. On my second car I didn't remove and it only required a bit more force to turn the crank (that is not what I was expecting though). So you can just leave it there and see if you can turn the crank for aligning the marks. You can always take it out if it needs more force

[JohnGD]

OP can get a spark plug socket for I think $1 or $2 at O'Reillys. An 18" or 25" 1/2"-drive breaker bar is about $9-12 at Harbor Freight.

It's ok to leave the plugs in there. There is less chance of dirt getting into the cylinders and with an 14" breaker bar (like the one in the HFT 1/2" socket set) the engine is easy to turn. Of course with the plugs removed a standard ratchet can turn it with ease.

And if OP needs new plugs use NGK Iridium-IX. Also google up a 5% discount code for rockauto.com