i think my timing chain is ready to go as its started to make a rattling noise, is this something i can replace myself? i have some basic mechanical knowledge. pete

pete hague, May 2008

mine snapped last year, cost 1700 to get it fixed, put it in the garage befor it gets as bad as mine. may not be as expensive at this point. not an easy job.

mike s, July 2009

hi yes its a chain and the car is a 2001, thanks for the advise.
pete

pete hague, May 2008

If you only have basic mechanical knowledge then no you cant change it as it requires precise alignment of cams etc. is it a chain or a belt on that engine (I thought the latter). either way get it done asap as if it snaps you are talking a new engine!! you didnt say what year the car is, but if you buy the haynes manual for your model, that should give you an idea of how difficult the job is. (will require specialist cam-locking tool at least)

Chris, May 2008

If you only have basic mechanical knowledge then no you cant change it as it requires precise alignment of cams etc. is it a chain or a belt on that engine (I thought the latter). either way get it done asap as if it snaps you are talking a new engine!! you didnt say what year the car is, but if you buy the haynes manual for your model, that should give you an idea of how difficult the job is. (will require specialist cam-locking tool at least)

Chris, May 2008