Got the 96 GLE back today after having the timing chain replaced. Nice and quiet now, no noise at all. It came with a 1 year parts & labor warranty, and since I'd like to keep this car for 3 or 4 years I figured it was worth the cost. I might still contact the regional Nissan rep. and see if he'll split the cost seeing how the chain should last at least 10 years(?). Anyway, I wanted to go ahead and get it fixed now. My Courtesy FSTB and clears should be here tomorrow, when I install them I'll take some new pics.

 

How much did it run?
How many miles on your car?
Why did you change it?

Thanks

 

What tipped you off that you needed a new timing chain? I'm scared sh!tless that I will need one soon as well....In the winter, my car makes a HORRIBLE rattling for 3 seconds after it starts that I was told was due to a malfunctioning timing chain tensioner...I was quoted anywhere from $750 to $2000 to change the chain and tensioner. Even now (in warm weather) I hear a slight rattle at idle. Please let me know if this sounds like the symptoms your car had, for I cannot afford for my timing to slip (I had one slip on one of my Buicks last year...)..

 

I cost about $1200 but I had them replace the water pump as well as the chain(s), tensioners & camshafts. Since most of the cost is labor ($800), why not go ahead and replace the water pump. I can list all the parts replaced with costs if anyone is interested. I think the first sound you hear is the starter making noise, but since you hear a rattle at idle in warm weather, it might be the tensioner. I plan on keeping my car so I went ahead and had it done.