Parts for your 1990 Mitsubishi Pajero-Timing belt kit

1990 Mitsubishi Pajero timing-belt-kit — what it is and when you’ll want to sort it

Is a timing-belt-kit relevant to a 1990 Mitsubishi Pajero? Yes, for most engines offered that year. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero factory workshop manual (1989–1991, engine sections for 6G72 V6 and 4D56 diesel), plus Australian application catalogues from Gates and Dayco, specify a toothed timing belt on the 3.0L 6G72 V6 and the 2.5L 4D56 turbo-diesel. Those same sources also note the 2.6L 4G54 petrol uses a timing chain, so a timing-belt-kit is not applicable to that particular engine.

• Uses a timing belt: 2.5L 4D56 turbo-diesel, 3.0L 6G72 V6
• Does not use a timing belt: 2.6L 4G54 petrol (timing chain)
• References: Mitsubishi factory workshop manual (1989–1991), Gates Australia and Dayco Australia application guides

For Pajeros fitted with a timing belt, the timing-belt-kit is the heart of reliable running. It keeps the cam and crank in perfect sync so valves and pistons play nicely, and on the 4D56 it also drives the balance shaft system. A proper kit bundles the belt, tensioner, idlers, and for many kits, the water pump. That saves mucking around twice, because most of the labour overlaps.

On age and kilometres, the smart call is to replace the lot every 90,000–100,000 km or about 5 years, whichever comes first. That aligns with common service guidance used in Australia and New Zealand for both the 6G72 V6 and 4D56 diesel. If the belt history’s unknown, it’s past due, or there are signs like chirps, rattles, oil contamination, frayed edges, or coolant leaks from the pump, bring it forward. Diesel owners should note the 4D56 also has a separate balance shaft belt—replace it with the main belt and tensioners together.

Good practice during the job includes fitting quality tensioners and idlers, checking cam and crank seals, and replacing the water pump while access is open. Correct belt tension and timing marks are non-negotiable. A failed belt will stop the engine on the spot, on the 4D56 (an interference design), it can bend valves. The V6 6G72 can also suffer damage, and at the very least you’ll be stranded—so preventative replacement is cheaper than a tow and a top-end rebuild.

If the Pajero has the 2.6 petrol (4G54) with a timing chain, a belt kit isn’t used. Chain systems have different service needs: listen for chain rattle, keep fresh oil up to it, and address guides or tensioners if noise appears.

Popular questions

How often should the timing belt be replaced on a 1990 Pajero?
Most owners in Australia and New Zealand work to 90,000–100,000 km or about 5 years. Bring it forward if there’s no service history, if there are oil or coolant leaks on the belt area, or any belt/tensioner noise.

What’s normally in a timing-belt-kit for a 1990 Pajero?
Typically a cam belt, tensioner and idler pulleys. Many kits add the water pump, and for 4D56 diesels a balance shaft belt and its tensioner. It’s wise to do the lot in one go.

What happens if the timing belt breaks?
The engine will quit immediately. On the 4D56 diesel, internal damage is likely. The 6G72 V6 can also be damaged. Preventative replacement is far cheaper than repairs.