How do you know if your timing chain is stretched?

How long will a stretched timing chain last?

When does a timing chain need to be replaced? The timing chain normally needs to be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 miles unless there is a specific problem.

What does a loose timing chain sound like?

Rattle in the Engine During Startup or Idling

When the timing chain is loose, it can cause a vibration in the motor resulting in a rattling noise as the engine idles or when starting. If you hear a rattle, it means something is loose and needs to be fixed before it breaks.

Do timing chains really stretch?

Timing chain stretch is not actually the 'stretching' of the chain, it's an elongation of the timing chain caused by wear in the chains components. The most common cause of this phenomenon is actually lack of maintenance and regular oil changes using a quality oil.

Can you drive with a stretched timing chain?

It's probably not immediately "dangerous" to drive with an elongated chain, but if it gets elongated enough, it will lose tension, start to "slap", and may break the plastic cam chain guides or jump a tooth on one of the sprockets, which may cause catastrophic engine damage.

Five warning signs your timing chain may need to be changed

How much does it cost to fix a timing chain?

Timing chain replacement can cost between $600 and $800 for a DIY repair, or between $1,600 and $1,800 with a mechanic. The cost is high due to the complicated nature of replacing this part.

Is it worth fixing a timing chain?

A timing chain doesn't need to be replaced unless there is a problem with it. Is the timing chain immune to mechanical failures? The simple answer is No, it is not. Timing chain problems are not uncommon, especially in high-mileage vehicles.

How do I stop my timing chain from stretching?

Regular maintenance and regular oil changes, using the correct oil, every 5,000 miles is the best way to combat timing chain stretch and failure.

Can you tighten a loose timing chain?

The timing chain should be loose enough to prevent binding and tight enough to keep from falling off. The chain should move about 1/2″ for the front and 1/4″ for the rear without using force. When you think the chain is adjusted, tighten the eccentric and rotate the cranks to see if there is a tight spot.

How long should a timing chain last?

Unless there is a specific fault, the timing chain should be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. Chain problems are frequent in automobiles with increasing mileage. If you're driving an older car or one with a lot of miles on it, keep an eye out for signs that the timing chain is failing.

How do you test a timing chain?

Will a bad timing chain throw a code?

A stretched timing chain contributes to poor engine performance and increased emissions, triggering the check engine light and the storing of a diagnostic trouble code. A mechanic will need to inspect the code and prescribe the necessary repairs.

Can a stretched timing chain cause damage?

Like many other engine components, the timing chain and its timing chain tensioner can wear over time, causing it to stretch. A stretched/worn timing chain will eventually result in the engine's timing becoming inaccurate. This can cause damage to other parts of your engine.

How tight should timing chain be?

For me on as fresh chain it should have no slack but very slight tension. If you lightly tap it it should not flutter but not be rigid. It's hard really to describe, it's more of a feel thing. It will stretch a bit once it runs so you don't really want to start out with it loose.

Will thicker oil stop timing chain noise?

Its cost around 1000 to 1500 to fix a timing chain. You could try using a thicker oil like 10W40 to reduce the noise.

How many hours does it take to replace a timing chain?

Overall, replacing the timing chain and its associated hardware should take a qualified mechanic 5 to 8 hours to complete.

What happens when a timing chain breaks while driving?

A broken timing chain will cause an engine to not start or fail while driving. If the belt is already broken, the engine won't have enough compression to start. If it breaks or jumps while driving, the pistons will be damaged from contact with the valves. The valves themselves will bend and potentially ruin the engine.

How long does it take a timing chain to break?

When should a timing chain be replaced? Although a timing chain is made out of metal, that doesn't mean that it's invincible. Autoblog reports that a timing chain typically needs to be replaced every so often depending on its condition. However, it should last well over 100,000 miles.

What causes timing chain to go out?

Failure to follow periodic engine oil and filter changes may adversely affect timing chain life. Old sludge-contaminated engine oil can lead to accelerated wear of the timing chain, guides and sprockets. This could result in chain breakage.

What's better timing chain or belt?

A: Timing chains are stronger than timing belts. Timing chains also last longer. Timing belts are quieter than timing chains and are cheaper and easier to replace.

Can you replace a timing chain yourself?

You may find the need to replace your timing chain at some point; however with the right tools, a service manual and some mechanical know-how, you can do it yourself. Just be aware that this is a major job and can have serious consequences for your engine if done incorrectly.

What is the rattling sound when I accelerate?

You usually hear this noise when accelerating the vehicle. Most people call this a pinging or rattling sound. This noise is caused by an air/fuel mixture in the engine cylinder being ignited prematurely by the heat of compression as the piston is moving up on the compression stroke.