Timing Chain Clatter (Tensioner) or Something Else?
#1
Timing Chain Clatter (Tensioner) or Something Else?
Within the last week or so (maybe a little longer) I've noticed what I'm calling a vibration (ish) type of noise emanating from the passenger side/front of my motor ('99 Maxima, completely stock VQ30).
I searched here and read threads related to a failing/worn chain tensioner. I also searched on the web and YouTube and listened to videos related to this failure (chain tensioner).
I'm not sure if it's the YouTube vids sound quality or what but all of the videos which are apparently examples of a failing chain tensioner sound very similar to lifter noise ... my noise is not that.
But ... If I were to post up or link a video of my motor would anyone here be able to tell if they feel my issue is actually a chain tensioner failure or a pulley bearing or something else?
I searched here and read threads related to a failing/worn chain tensioner. I also searched on the web and YouTube and listened to videos related to this failure (chain tensioner).
I'm not sure if it's the YouTube vids sound quality or what but all of the videos which are apparently examples of a failing chain tensioner sound very similar to lifter noise ... my noise is not that.
But ... If I were to post up or link a video of my motor would anyone here be able to tell if they feel my issue is actually a chain tensioner failure or a pulley bearing or something else?
Last edited by Turbobink; 12-17-2013 at 10:56 AM.
#2
The chain tensioners have plastic parts that can wear out and cause clattering. I have an issue with one of mine clattering a little bit right now. They aren't cheap to have replaced either which is why mine haven't been done.
#3
I was hoping that someone with some familiarity/experience with this issue could definitively say yes timing chain tensioner or not timing chain tensioner.
#5
But what exactly do worn plastic chain tensioner guides sound like as opposed to a failing crank pulley or belt tensioner or AC compressor pulley bearing?
Other than removing the serpinitine belt and checking for wobble in all the pulleys I'm not certain how I firmly determine that it's the chain tensioner guides.
Can this be determined through simple inspection ... i.e. removal of the rear inspection plate?
Other than removing the serpinitine belt and checking for wobble in all the pulleys I'm not certain how I firmly determine that it's the chain tensioner guides.
Can this be determined through simple inspection ... i.e. removal of the rear inspection plate?
#6
But what exactly do worn plastic chain tensioner guides sound like as opposed to a failing crank pulley or belt tensioner or AC compressor pulley bearing? Other than removing the serpinitine belt and checking for wobble in all the pulleys I'm not certain how I firmly determine that it's the chain tensioner guides. Can this be determined through simple inspection ... i.e. removal of the rear inspection plate?
#7
While we're on the topic of timing in this thread, Rockauto currently has 2 timing kits for the 4th gen for about 200 bucks. One only comes with the chains and tensioners, the other comes with chains, tensioners and sprockets. I figured since the timing cover has to come off to replace the tensioners I might as well have it all done. How much does the labor typically cost on average?
#8
I know you can get to one without removing the timing cover. I found out when I had my water pump replaced that there is a small removable panel on the upper left of the timing cover that gives you access to one of the tensioners. That one can for sure be removed without removing the timing cover.
While we're on the topic of timing in this thread, Rockauto currently has 2 timing kits for the 4th gen for about 200 bucks. One only comes with the chains and tensioners, the other comes with chains, tensioners and sprockets. I figured since the timing cover has to come off to replace the tensioners I might as well have it all done. How much does the labor typically cost on average?
While we're on the topic of timing in this thread, Rockauto currently has 2 timing kits for the 4th gen for about 200 bucks. One only comes with the chains and tensioners, the other comes with chains, tensioners and sprockets. I figured since the timing cover has to come off to replace the tensioners I might as well have it all done. How much does the labor typically cost on average?
Most will take the motor out to do it..
Last edited by 98maxaholic; 12-18-2013 at 06:19 PM.
#10
Through my searches on this topic I've read that a shop repair will likely cost somewhere between $1300.00 and $2,000.00. That includes parts and labor.
Based on this I've asked my Nissan guru what he charges for a 3.5 swap ... just in case.
Based on this I've asked my Nissan guru what he charges for a 3.5 swap ... just in case.
#12
#15
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QI3xqgakdP0&feature=youtube_gdata_player lookie here op basically the same set up as a 3.0
But if this turns out to be a timing set issue and an expensive fix and if a 3.5 swap becomes a real and plausible possibility, upgrading to a 59K mile 3.5 or a rebuilt 3.5 will nicely address the issue.
#16
That video is interesting and good to know. That guide issue is not on the 4th gens though but the problem I have studied is oil pressure. Since replacing my tensioner and guide to the updated version, I do not hear a single thing during the summer with no oil leaks at all. During the winter, I can hear it for less than a second when starting up. I did not use the tensioner gasket but will try it on my other 4th gen this upcoming summer.
#17
That video is interesting and good to know. That guide issue is not on the 4th gens though but the problem I have studied is oil pressure. Since replacing my tensioner and guide to the updated version, I do not hear a single thing during the summer with no oil leaks at all. During the winter, I can hear it for less than a second when starting up. I did not use the tensioner gasket but will try it on my other 4th gen this upcoming summer.
#19
Mine was making a sort of droning sound and my water pump had just begun to leak, so I had this done and I was around for some of the time watching. Basically you take the weight of the motor on a trolley jack, disconnect the mounts, jack the timing chain side into the air and then you can just about access all the bolts that hold the TC cover on. My mechanic told me it was a ***** of a job in terms of the time required.
#20
I'm actually not certain it's not an AC compressor or PS pump coming apart.
I've listened incessantly, intently and obsessively.
It just doesn't sound like the typical TC tensioner I hear on the videos and sound clips I've found ... it more grumbly.
I got with my Nissan magician. He's gonna give a listen this week.
I've listened incessantly, intently and obsessively.
It just doesn't sound like the typical TC tensioner I hear on the videos and sound clips I've found ... it more grumbly.
I got with my Nissan magician. He's gonna give a listen this week.
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