How long does it take to change a timing chain on a car?
The timing chain replacement cost is higher than many other auto repair jobs in large part because of how long it takes to put a new timing chain into place. Oftentimes, it’s going to take a mechanic between 4 and 6 hours to complete a timing chain replacement job from start to finish.
Do you need to change your timing chain?
Hello Sue, Your car does indeed have a timing chain. Timing chains do not require any dedicated maintenance. However, changing your engine oil regularly will help extend the life of the chain and all other internal engine components.
What are the symptoms of a bad timing chain?
Symptoms of a failing timing chain include: 1 Timing chain noise 2 Engine misfire and poor performance 3 Difficulty in starting the vehicle 4 Illuminated check engine light 5 Engine vibration or shaking when idling 6 Engine won’t start
How are gears connected to the timing chain?
Locate marks on your crankshaft and camshaft gears. These gears are connected by the timing chain so that the position of the piston (connected to the crankshaft) correlates directly to the opening of the fuel and exhaust valves (operated by the camshaft) to keep your engine running smoothly.
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.
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.
Why does my car have a failing timing chain?
One reason is a failing timing chain. The computer in your car detects that something wrong with the way in which the engine is working. When the timing chain is stretched, it makes the engine perform poorly and so the engine emissions are increased.
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.
How is a timing chain different from a bicycle chain?
Timing chain. A timing chain is made of metal, similar to a bicycle chain. A timing chain runs inside the engine, as it needs to be lubricated by the engine oil.