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Question the diagnosis- more information please! Posted by Ari [Email]  (#2847) [Profile/Gallery]
(more from Ari) on Fri, 11 May 2001 08:44:01
In Reply to: Help...Help engine or timing chain problem, Eric Meury, Thu, 10 May 2001 23:23:25 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
Why do you need a new timing chain/gear set?
If the timing chain has broken, I would understand it. If so, there would also be some upper end damage, and that could account for the cost. If the engine started to run very badly because the timing chain slipped a tooth, I could believe it.
What brought this diagnosis on? Is the engine suddenly running badly, or not running at all? Or was this based on a mechanic listening to the engine and telling you that 'sounds like a timing chain'?
Many mechanics diagnose timing chain problems by ear, and unless the engine sounds like a tin can full of silverware rolling down stairs, they're wrong. Some mechanics measure the chain tensioner length, and others simply look at the next boat payment bill.
The only way to properly diagnose a loose or worn timing chain is to remove the valve cover, visually inspect the chains and sprockets, and measure the offset of alignment marks on the cams and head.
As an example, I brought my '88 into the dealership for an alignment (don't ask), and they told me the timing chain 'was about to go'. The car had about 80K at the time. I inspected the timing chain and it looked just fine, just a little clattery. The car now has 140K, and when I had the valve cover off to replace the gasket a few thousand miles ago, the chain still measured up fine.
So - some information - what's the year and engine (2.0T, 2.3, etc) of your car? How many miles? What are they symptoms?
, Fri, 11 May 2001 08:44:01 <-- Viewing This Message, Fri, 11 May 2001 08:52:32, Fri, 11 May 2001 12:49:30
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