Diagnose Timing Chain Problems

A vehicle's timing chain is one of the most important parts because it is responsible for turning the camshaft, which makes your engine run. After many miles, a timing chain can stretch and the wear of the gears can leave residue in the system. A general rule of thumb is that a timing chain should be replaced after every 100,000 miles for optimum performance.

Procedures:
1. Listen to the sound of the engine when you start it up. If you hear a rattling noise, this is a common indication that the timing chain is too loose and needs repair.
2. Drive the vehicle to test the power of the engine. If the car's engine power seems to be decreased (meaning the car does not accelerate as it should) this is a timing chain symptom. A slack timing chain will cause the camshaft timing to be unpredictable.
3. Take off the distributor cap and turn the crankshaft either left or right until your rotor moves. Turn it the opposite direction until the rotor turns the other way. If you need to turn the crank more than half an inch to move the rotor, your timing gears and chain should be replaced.
4. Check to see if your camshaft is turning by removing the distributor cap and cranking the engine. The rotor should move and if it doesn't the chain is in need of repair.