What does a timing chain going bad sound like?
Listen for a metallic sound that resembles a rattling or scrapping noise. The sound can be intermittent or constant, but it will be a metal to metal contact. If you hear a rattle, metal to metal slapping or scraping coming from inside the cover, it indicates a timing chain noise.
Why is the timing chain important to an engine?
The timing chain is a crucial piece of equipment that, when working properly, causes the valves to open and close at very specific intervals in relation to the position of your pistons for optimum operation of your engine.
What should I do to tighten my timing chain?
Tighten the chain according to your car manual’s specifications. Some chains are tensioned by adjusting either the crankshaft gear or the camshaft gear, while others have an automatic tensioner. This will vary by make and model of your car. The important thing is to make sure that your timing belt is as tight as it should be.
Do you need a timing belt to replace a timing chain?
You will most likely need it to disassemble and reassemble various parts. Also verify that your model is equipped with a timing chain and not a timing belt. These two parts perform the same task, but replacing them can be quite different. This procedure is only for replacing a timing chain.
How do you change the timing chain on a radiator?
Trace the radiator hoses from the radiator back to the engine. Squeeze the hose clamps with pliers and slide them back onto the hose. Wiggle the hose to break it free and move it out of the way. There is no need to remove the radiator.
What kind of timing chain does a 1997 Altima have?
1997 Nissan Altima Timing Chain Installation. The 1997 Nissan Altima had only one engine, according to Auto Zone — the 2.4-liter sequential fuel-injected double overhead cam engine. The timing chain, like timing belts, do stretch, but last much longer than a timing belt. The chain usually lasts closer to 100,000 to 120,000 miles.
What happens if your timing belt breaks on a Nissan Altima?
If it jumps a tooth, or breaks entirely it can lead to permanent engine damage. It’s important to know the symptoms of a bad timing belt or chain, so this doesn’t happen to your Nissan Altima. Timing belts are made out of rubber and nylon, unlike a timing chain which looks a lot like a bicycle chain.
What kind of engine does a 1997 Nissan Altima have?
The 1997 Nissan Altima had only one engine, according to Auto Zone — the 2.4-liter sequential fuel-injected double overhead cam engine. The timing chain, like timing belts, do stretch, but last much longer than a timing belt. The chain usually lasts closer to 100,000 to 120,000 miles. You can also hear the chain rattle if it gets too loose.
What causes a Nissan Altima to not start?
Engine Won’t Start – If your Altima’s timing chain or belt has fallen off completely, broken, or has jumped a few teeth, it is entirely possible that the engine won’t even start. You might hear it slapping around as the engine cranks over.