How long does a timing chain last in an engine?
This is especially important considering that many modern engines are known to consume oil. In a well-maintained engine, a timing chain can last up to 300,000 miles or even longer.
Why is my timing chain wearing out on my RX 350?
The timing chain problems are not uncommon, especially in high-mileage vehicles. Similarly to any other moving mechanical components inside any engine, a timing chain is subject to wear. A timing chain is lubricated by the engine oil. Lack of oil changes, low oil level or poor oil quality can cause the timing chain to wear faster.
Can a loose timing chain cause an engine to backfire?
Backfiring If your engine backfires, it could be due to a loose timing chain. If your vehicle loses power, without warning, your timing chain might be loose. If you notice your engine running rough on idle, or while you are accelerating, this is another sign you may have a loose timing chain.
What can I do to avoid timing chain problems?
To avoid timing chain problems you should maintain your engine properly and have the engine oil changed at recommended intervals. Using premium quality engine oils and oil filters will also help. Keeping the proper oil level will ensure that the timing chain is always lubricated.
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.
Where do I find the timing chain information?
You can find this type of information in the service manual for your vehicle. 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 are timing chains used in a DOHC engine?
In some engines, such as a Chevy 3.4L DOHC V6, a timing chain is used to drive an intermediate sprocket that drives two belts (one for each cam). Timing belts and chains carry a heavy load. They have to turn the cam with enough force to overcome the resistance of all the valve springs.
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.
Where is the timing chain located in an overhead cam engine?
In overhead cam (OHC) engines, the camshaft is located high in the cylinder head far from the crankshaft. This requires a much longer chain or a rubber belt to drive the camshaft. In some engines, such as a Chevy 3.4L DOHC V6, a timing chain is used to drive an intermediate sprocket that drives two belts (one for each cam).
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.
This is especially important considering that many modern engines are known to consume oil. In a well-maintained engine, a timing chain can last up to 300,000 miles or even longer.
Are there any problems with the VW timing chain?
A Volkswagen timing chain tensioner lawsuit alleges numerous VW and Audi vehicles have defects in the timing chain tensioning systems that cause complete engine failure. This problem has popped up in the following Volkswagen generations.
What to do if your Mercedes has timing chain issue?
If you have a vehicle with one of these engines built between 04 and 06 and your check engine light comes on, Mercedes encourages you to visit your M-B dealer rather than an independent shop, as Mercedes is offering free repairs to affected customers.
What happens to timing chain when tensioner fails?
If the tensioner fails and the chain becomes loose, the timing of the engine is thrown off. Whether the timing chain itself has stretched, or a tensioner isn’t doing its job, the result is the same. Here’s some tell-tale signs of a timing chain problem.