I was curious as to how long the factory timing chain is suppose to last. Ive read different views on it, but want to get the facts, because of the 100k mile timing chain replace?

 

out engines having timing chains which last the life of the engine. However there are other parts that need replacing as time goes on. But the timing chain is one that does not need to be replaced. 95 max i believe have the old style tensioner and might also need to replace the chain guide if necessary.

 

It has 112k miles on it. The cold crank chain noise only lasts .75-1 sec. I wonder in the future, If I could just replace the tensioner guts of a newer one, and leave the original guide? Replacing the guide looks to be a monumental task.

 

You could do that, sure.

The chain lasts the life of the engine. Of course you could take that to mean that when the chain breaks, the engine dies a permanent death.

You won't need to worry about ever replacing the chain, just the tensioner. But really unless it bothers you, the chain noise in the morning isn't causing any problems.

 

The KA24 engine were notorious for hydraulic lifter noise on start up once the oil drained out of the engine down to the pan. Is this similar to the chain noise. Sounds like since it only happens on start up, it might be oil related, either not enough oil or not enough oil pressure. The way to remedy the problem in a KA24 was to install an oil filter with a check valve in it to prevent the oil from flowing in the reverse direction due to gravity. Would a similar fix help a VQ30?

 

Is there any signs of a chain about to head on out, so I can replace it, and not destroy the engine?

 

i don't believe there are signs..but if it does happen...just buy a new engine if you were going to go that route...

 

My whole idea is to avoid having to buy another engine.

The car has 112k miles on it, and was treated very well. Just doing preventative maintenance.

 

Quit being so paranoid. There are members on the .org with over 300k on the clock and obviously the timing chain hasn't been a problem. With 112k miles on your ride, it is only getting broken in.

 

chain tensioner is all you should ever need, and when you do that do the water pump, or vice versa

 

i had 560 000 kms on my 96 se and the only reason I sold it was because it was rusted to **** from quebec winters. the engine ran great, and was never once oppened up for anything. not even waterpump

I just bought a 98 se that is much cleaner and rust free on the west coast and plan to keep it for a very long time without much worries!

 

I have just under 220k miles on mine (though I just got it with that many miles) and doubt the chain has ever been touched.

 

I have a 97 maxima and the timing chain is rattling loud all the time. I just replaced the tensioners. The noise quit for about five days any suggestions. Its got 194k miles on it.