When should a timing chain be replaced?
between 80,000 and 120,000 miles
When does a timing chain need to be replaced? The timing chain normally needs to be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 miles unless there is a specific problem. Issues with the chain are common in higher mileage vehicles.
How long will a bad timing chain last?
between 40,000 and 100,000 miles
The metal links in the chain move on the tooth sprockets on the end of the crankshaft and crankshaft so that they rotate together. The timing chain normally needs to be replaced between 40,000 and 100,000 miles unless there is a problem.
Do you ever replace a timing chain?
A timing chain runs inside the engine, as it needs to be lubricated by the engine oil. A timing belt typically needs to be replaced between 40,000 and 100,000 miles depending on the vehicle. A timing chain doesn’t need to be replaced unless there is a problem with it.
What a bad timing chain sounds like?
Listen for a metallic sound that resembles a rattling or scrapping noise. The sound can be intermittent or constant, but it will be a metal to metal contact. If you hear a rattle, metal to metal slapping or scraping coming from inside the cover, it indicates a timing chain noise.
When do you know to change the timing chain?
A timing chain runs inside the engine, as it needs to be lubricated by the engine oil. A timing belt typically needs to be replaced between 40,000 and 100,000 miles depending on the vehicle and it’s a few hundred dollar repair. A timing chain doesn’t need to be replaced unless there is a problem with it.
What are the bright links on a timing chain?
Locate marks or “bright” links in your timing chain. These links are brighter than the other links and are used to align your engine. Set your engine to top dead center. To get your engine to top dead center, line the bright links on the timing chain up with the marks on your camshaft and crankshaft gears.
Can a timing chain be replaced on a pushrod car?
In old-style pushrod engines, replacing the timing chain is a fairly easy task. No such luck if you have a modern front-wheel drive car with a transversely-mounted engine, as the space in the engine compartment could be very tight.
What can cause a timing chain to go bad?
The wrong oil can cause extra load on the chain and the engine will not be properly lubricated. Since the timing chain can go bad and will need to be replaced, it is important to be able to recognize the symptoms so you can have it repaired before it fails completely.
