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Re: timing chain Posted by Ari [Email] ![]() ![]() In Reply to: timing chain, ijb, Mon, 11 Feb 2002 15:25:06 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
The timing chain has no replacement interval - it should only be replaced if it starts to show problems. As others have mentioned, this is not a belt. Belts have limited lifetimes.
The timing chain should last the life of the car with maintenance. That maintenance consists of regular oil changes - that seems to be the most important thing in keeping chains happy.
I've never replaced a timing chain in any of my Saabs, and I've run (or am running) many of them well over 150K miles.
Since your car is an 84, it may still have the old-style chain tensioner. A new style tensioner came out around '88 or so. If you're feeling frisky in that area, replace the tensioner (about $50 for the part).
OK - how do you know when the timing chain needs replacement? Don't go by ear. Saabs tend to be rattly engines, especially when cold. Unless the engine sounds like a tin can full of silverware rolling down stairs, going by 'ear' is no test.
If you suspect the timing chain, remove the valve cover. Pulling the valve cover is easy, and is something you'd do to replace a leaky valve cover gasket, something that happens every 5 years or so. Or if you're getting your valves done (I assume your 84 is an 8 valve without hydraulic lifters). Either way, with the valve cover off, you turn the engine to 0 degrees (Top Dead Center) for cylinder #1, and check the alignment mark on the cam against the mark on the head. You also visually inspect the chain for wear. If the chain looks OK and the marks line up, the chain is fine.
Enjoy!
posted by 140.157....
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