Replacing Timing Chain and Vib. Dampener

[eric91xj]

I gotta do both these pretty soon so i figured i'd ask what the easiest way to get at it is. I'm not asking how to do it, just wondering for those who have done it on an XJ what is the easiest approach to it? get at it from underneith? above? or do ya guys pull the whole radiator out.

thanx,

eric

[Eagle]

You can do the harmonic damper from underneath with the radiator in, but I think you'll find you need to pull the radiator to do the timing chain. What makes you think you need one? I replaced the one on my '88 at 204,000 miles mostly because I'm accustomed to AMC V-8s, and they all had nylon teeth on the cam sprocket. I expected that I was getting ready to skip a few teeth. However, the 4.0L has all steel gears and the old chain was just as tight as the new one. It was open so I changed it, but I kept the old one and wouldn't hesitate to use it in a beater.

[eric91xj]

i'm not sure if i need one or not but i need to do a rear main seal and a front crank seal as well as replace the dampener because its walking. I figured i have a new set or sprockets and a new chain just sitting around so if i'm pulling it all apart i figure i should just put it back together with the new stuff while i can.

eric

[Larry A.]

When you get in there, let us know how much slack you find, etc. and how many miles are on it.

Thanks

[MACH90XJ]

I did mine on the '90,dont think its that different from a '91.

Harmonic balancer is accessible from bottom,at least it was with my puller.Didnt have to touch radiator.

Timing cover not to bad with air rachet.Pull mechanical fan and shroud,unbolt air conditioner set aside.Water pump pulley should be loosened before taking off belt.Alternater and brackets are pretty straight forward.

I had about 1 inch flex either way,new one had no play at all.With oil pan off you can see and touch chain before you decide to tear into it.