Do timing chains need to be replaced?

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Jun 17, 2004 | 05:14 PM

#21

nsx555

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From: Atlanta

A trusted Mercedes mechanic says to change chains every 300k miles.

Jun 13, 2005 | 10:41 AM

#22

joe_s2k

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From: HouStook TX

Since I'm at 120k miles, I've been wondering about this timing chain issue. Has there been any change on the thought of when it needs to be replaced?

The other issue I have is that I'm on my second short block which was replaced at 76k miles. What are the odds that Honda used a NEW timing chain when using the same head?

Jun 13, 2005 | 11:42 AM

#23

Elistan

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From: Longmont, CO

I've yet to read on s2ki anybody having issue with a broken chain. Looks like you'll be the one telling the rest of us when/if it needs to be changed, joe.

Jun 13, 2005 | 01:02 PM

#24

Spoolin

Joined: Mar 2003

Posts: 6,507

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From: Sellersburg, IN

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ludedude,Jun 16 2004, 04:41 PM

A good rule of thumb is about 100,000 miles to replace a metal timing chain in a normal street driven engine. Obviously cars with a lot of track miles should do this sooner. Being that this is an "interference" motor, if the chain breaks the valves will come into contact with the pistons and lead to a much more expensive repair.

If you need to change the timing chain at around 100,000 miles, then why didn't Honda just stick with a belt on this engine? A belt is supposed to be changed around 90,000 to 100,000 miles anyway.

Jun 14, 2005 | 05:06 AM

#25

Squeezer

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From: Jackson

chains are basically good for the life of the engine. the only reason you'd replace them is when you rebuild the engine. the only thing that can go wrong with them is the links could stretch/deform.

Jun 14, 2005 | 07:53 AM

#26

axhandler

Joined: Mar 2005

Posts: 641

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From: Jacksonville, FL

This is just a thought but, if the HONDA SERVICE MANUAL doesn't list it as required maintenance then it doesn't need to be replaced...ever.

Jun 14, 2005 | 08:02 AM

#27

Spoolin

Joined: Mar 2003

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From: Sellersburg, IN

That's what I was thinking.

Jun 14, 2005 | 08:33 AM

#28

Intrepid175

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From: Texas City

Quote:

Originally Posted by Squeezer,Jun 14 2005, 07:06 AM

chains are basically good for the life of the engine. the only reason you'd replace them is when you rebuild the engine. the only thing that can go wrong with them is the links could stretch/deform.

I would tend to agree with this. As an addendum, if you feel the chain is worn enough to warrant replacement, you should also consider replacing the drive gears too. If the chain is worn that badly, it's a good bet that the gears have significant wear too. Putting a new chain on a worn set of drive gears will significantly reduce the life of the new chain.

Just a thought!

Drive Safe,
Steve R.

Jun 14, 2005 | 02:33 PM

#29

joe_s2k

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From: HouStook TX

Thanks for all the input! This is my first timing chain equipped vehicle and I just wanted to prevent the dreaded "timing-belt" disaster.

So who do I send the bill to when it breaks off and destroys my engine?