Timing Chain Tension

C

cvlv2

NAXJA Forum User

Location

Eastern MO

• Jan 3, 2007

• #1

I am replacing my oil pan gasket, rear main seal and oil pump. While under the jeep with the oil pan off, I looked up at the timing chain. I poked at it with my finger and it seems to have a lot of 'slack' in it. The engine runs fine, but the looseness of that chain has me worried. Should it be loose?

I don't want to put the pan back on until I find out.

 

S

Slo-Sho

NAXJA Forum User

Location

The 2nd most regulated state.

• Jan 3, 2007

• #2

I just recently replaced my timing chain and gears on my 97 and there was barely any slack in the chain w/ new parts. The old chain had more than 3/4" play in it.

 

C

cvlv2

NAXJA Forum User

Location

Eastern MO

• Jan 3, 2007

• #3

Yep, mine moves about 3/4 of an inch. By the way, this is a 1990 4.0 liter with 198,000 miles.

 

5-90

NAXJA Forum User

Location

Hammerspace

• Jan 3, 2007

• #4

Your chain is about broken in - timing chains are typically good (OEM) for 300K or better.

If you use the newer (1996 and up) moulded rubber gasket and install it correctly, you don't need to replace it when you dismount the timing chain cover for service, either.

5-90

 

G

gjxj

NAXJA Forum User

Location

ohio

• Jan 3, 2007

• #5

My thinking , if its loose then your valve timing is a degree off where it should be. It may not break in the next 100k but I'd still feel better to replace it.

 

C

cvlv2

NAXJA Forum User

Location

Eastern MO

• Jan 5, 2007

• #6

I'm going to go ahead and change it. Anything tricky about it I should watch out for?

 

7

75SV1

NAXJA Member

NAXJA Member

Location

Hope,IN

• Jan 5, 2007

• #7

I think the standard is about 1/2 inch deflection. Sounds like you need to replace it. They aren't that expensive either. I'd replace the front cranckshaft seal while your at it. They do make a repair 'kit' if you have a groove where the seal has been on the dampner (I think its the dampner).
Tom