Date: Wed, 30 Jan 2002 18:56:36 +0000 From: Johannes H Andersen <johsnopsamanytime.co.uk> Subject: Re: Balance-shaft chain replacement interval?
EricL wrote: > > Hello all! > > I'm a long-time Saaber and a competent mechanic, but don't have any > experience with the newer models. The wife and I are both buying Saabs with > the 2.3l motor (9000 for me, 9-5 for her). I've heard rumors that the drive > chains (and related components) for the balance shafts have a fairly short > lifetime, and I'd much rather replace the chain and whatever goes with it > *before* it breaks and trashes the inside of the motor! > > Can anyone out there offer any advice on when the chain should be replaced, > and what other bits should be replaced at the same time? Also any other > weak spots on the 2.3, other than DI cassettes and head gaskets? > > Thanks! > The timing chain rarely breaks, it's a proper chain, not a rubber belt as found on lesser cars. The chain becomes noisy when worn, then you should replace chain plus sprockets. Mileage vary, but around 100k miles or so. Johannes
