Timing Chain

[Peanut Butter]

After removing the pan yesterday to replace a leaking gasket, I noticed my timing chain had some slack in it. I can only see about an inch of it from behind through a small opening covered by the pan. What is the typical fit of the timing chain? What is the usual amount of slack in it at the very bottom of its fit between the two gears? Thanks Rod

 

[Posi]

It would be time to replace the chain when it deflects more then 1/2".

You could also test it by turning the crank clockwise slowly by hand taken up the slack. Mark the crank pulley. Now turn the other way while eying the rotor, stop when the rotor just starts to turn and mark the pulley again. 3-5 degrees between the lines is fine 10-15 is not.

If your not sure of the degrees you can measure the circumference of the pulley/damper, divide the distance between the chalk mark by the circumference of the pulley, then multiply by 360 for your answer.

 

[Peanut Butter]

Thanks, I was afraid it was too much. Guess I'll be replacing it. Better now though than once I put it all back together. There was no indication that the chain presented any problems. I only noticed it since I had the pan off for gasket replacement. This will be a new challenge, so I'd better start reading what to do and what not to do. Thanks again. Rod

 

[Torxhead]

Peanut Butter, one indication of a worn timing chain is when you are adjusting the timing with a light and the timing mark bounces as you hold that light on it.A replacement option is getting a solid metal top timing gear as they usually come with a nylon gear insert on them.

 

[rlitavecz]

If you are already replacing the pan gasket, this is a great time to replace the timing set and cover gasket. Get everything clean and fit the gaskets carefully using RTV at the corners. There is a lot to be said for a Jeep that doesn't leak

 

[Peanut Butter]

Thanks guys. Torxhead, the solid gear made by anybody in particular? Should be an easy replacement since the engine is pulled completely out of the vehicle. Rod

 

[Torxhead]

I bought mine a few years back from a local parts outfit. You might be able to get one from an online speed shop or a large parts supplier.