Name that timing chain game.... Where's Russ

[gotta240]

Motor- ka24de from 93 auto w/ 130k miles.
How can you tell when the timing chain has or needs to be replaced? (by looking at it, since i don't know the history of this motor)

The motor in question has a timing chain that says "O6E" on the two connecting links. I have another spare motor that says "japan" on the same links. I'm assuming that the factory nissan links say "japan" and that the one on my motor has already been replaced.

However, these are only assumptions and i figure only one or two people on here will actually KNOW for sure...Russ being one of them.

thanks in advance to anyone who KNOWS.

[ManoNegra]

I'm not Russ but I followed what the FSM said: check for wear or cracks on the links and side to side slack. If you have the motor appart already might as well do it and don't forget to ditch the upper guides.

[emersonLP]

The timing chain usually outlasts the motor. But like Mano said, if you have the motor apart, you might as well replace it.

[gotta240]

Thanks for the replies. I checked for cracks and there were none. The upper guide was already removed which HINTS that the chain may have been replaced. (because in my mind, only nissan mechanics and 240 kids know to remove it, and this car came stock from a used dealership...not a 240 kid)

I'd rather not spend the 100 bucks if i don't have to, yet will do it if NEED be. I'm struggling keeping my DD, Track car, and work truck going simultaniously.

[projectRDM]

Bingo. A chain does not actually *wear* unless there's an alignment problem or if there's slop in the chain from low oil pressure. An inspection will tell you if it needs it, or if you already have it off it's a good idea to replace it anyway, but I've seen engine go over 200k with the original timing gear components in place. My old engine went 183k with the original parts, my new one got replaced at 56k because it was already apart. The mileage, age, wear, type of oil, all contribute to whether it needs it or not.

Now a timing belt, every 60k is standard, regardless of wear. Still some people go longer, like my Lexus which still had the original parts at 175k.

[gotta240]

Thanks for your time and explanation.

Being the chain looks great, it will stay. That 100 bucks will be better spent on h20 pump, gaskets, etc.

I'm assuming the oil pumps last nearly forever as well, providing no depri destroys/clogs it. Am i correct or should it be replaced w/ 130k on the clock, providing all LOOKS well?

Thanks again.

[steve shadows]

Originally Posted by emersonLP

The timing chain usually outlasts the motor. But like Mano said, if you have the motor apart, you might as well replace it.

Yes.

Always, they do get slack.

I had two engines develop it, I was also doing insane racing and drag launches on them almost too much of the time almost.

Do it while it's out.

It's cleaner, tighter and you feel good for having the peace of mind.

DO IT- P2M FTW- Always-

[xsparc]

Might as well do it. Mine seemed fine, but there was some slack so it rattled alot. A new one fixed the problem.