timing chain(s) replacement

wine · Feb 3rd, 2006, 01:57 PM

I know the timing chain doesn't generraly need replacement, but has anyone ventured into replacing it?

Sethticlees · Feb 3rd, 2006, 05:13 PM

I highly doubt you'll need to replace the timing chain on your 97 GXE anytime soon.

Since you asked, I can say I have replaced the chain guides and tensioners and that was pretty involved. Had I wanted to replace the chain it would have been a lot more job. (Gotta remove the cam and such)
All this would be a lot easier if ya just pulled the engine IMHO. It's really a PITA of a job either way, but totally do-able.

BTW, this should be in the 1.6L Engine Forum

Kindfiend · Feb 6th, 2006, 10:40 PM

I've done it, and it was rough but not undoable.

It's very much labor intensive. Took me, a friend, and a haynes manual three days from start to finish. Well, the haynes didn't do much work, but it did have some nice blurry pictures for us to argue what part is which and steps in the wrong order.

There's a bunch of might-as-wells when you do a job like this. The water pump, tons 'o gaskets, oil pan seals, carbon removal, all the belts, things like that.

Next time I attempt anything like that, I'm pulling the engine...

nova73guy · Feb 9th, 2006, 12:47 PM

If I'm not mistaken, isn't the 1.6L belt-driven?

**wes** · Feb 9th, 2006, 03:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nova73guy

If I'm not mistaken, isn't the 1.6L belt-driven?

You would be mistaken. Both the GA and SR series are ALL chain driven.

tx96sx · Feb 13th, 2006, 12:22 AM

I just got done rebuilding my GA16DE and I agree that it's easier to replace the timing chain with the motor out. Also, get a copy of the service manual to guide you through it.