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Re: If I do the Timing Chain, Balance Chains too? Posted by Ari [Email] (#2847) [Profile/Gallery] (more from Ari) on Mon, 8 Dec 2008 03:48:26 In Reply to: If I do the Timing Chain, Balance Chains too?, dbreid [Profile/Gallery] , Sun, 7 Dec 2008 21:28:23 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
Year is always helpful.
The earlier cars - '91-93 2.3 engines - had problems with the balance shaft gears being soft. In my opinion, those should be replaced (gears), In fact, those usually will drive opening up the timing chain area.
I am a believer in stock engines, so if you really need to replace the timing chain, then it is probably a high milage engine. Whatever caused the timing chain to wear has also affected the balance chain and shaft gears. If you can afford it, replace them. As a back-up, you could wait until the engine is apart and then inspect them carefully. If the chain and gears don't look worn, you could leave them. The bad part about this approach is that you need to leave the engine open for a couple of days while the parts (if necessary) come in.
There are folks that recommend simply removing the balance chain, and live with the extra vibration. This is an option, but the problem is you really won't know how much vibration it is until you've got the engine buttoned back up. Some engines vibrate more than others. Now, if you've modified the car - stiffer suspension, urethane motor mounts, low profile tires - things where you've already traded off comfort for speed, then you might be willing to risk a little more vibration. However, if you're looking for stock, leave the chains in.
I assume you are replacing the timing chain because it is demonstrably worn. If that is true, you should replace the parts it works with, such as the guides. You can't really wear out a chain but have the guides in good shape. If the timing chain is worn, there is good reason to assume the balance chain is worn, as are the balance shaft gears.
Questions-
Why are you replacing the timing chain?
How many miles on the car?
What year?
Any modifications?
What is the long term outlook for the car - keep it forever, or limp it along another few years?
posted by 76.243.122...
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