Hey guys I know that the 4gen. Maximas are chain-drive. And with the belt-drive systems, one would change every 30k-60k miles.
My wife has a J30, I'm also assuming that its a chain system similar to the 4gen maximas. Well her car, according to the mechanics, feel that the timing is off. And the system needs to be changed. Now correct me if I'm wrong... I thought that Chain-Drive systems last for the life of the Vehicle. Any info on this will be greatly appreciated. Thanks...

 

They're supposed to last that long. If the timing is off, then that means the chain got loose, due to worn tensioners or guides, and jumped a tooth. Timing chain work is very $$$. But a whole tooth jumpis very noticeable, so you should be able to tell if that's the problem.

 

I'm not sure about the J30 engine, but yes chain driven over head cam's don't need to be serviced or changed. There is a tensioner on there that should keep proper tension on the chain.

Now as far as timing, I think the timing comes off the TPS sensor, which is most likely looking at the Crank shaft position. So the timing cannot possibly be wrong even if the chain has streatched slightly.

Time for a new mechanic, or perhaps one that knows how your car is designed.

Are you having problems with the car? Why would your mechanic assume that the timing is off?

 

The J30 uses the VE30DE, which has a belt, I think.

 

whey you say "J30" do you mean Infiniti J30 or "J30 chassis"= 89-94 Maxima?

Infiniti J30 has the VG30DE motor which has a belt drive.

the Nissan "J30 chassis" has in all 89-94 GXE & 89-91SE Maxima the VG30E belt driven motor. the 92-94 SE Maxima has the VE30DE chain driven motor.