need mechanical help

[andyman]

well i dont know much about the mechanics of an engine (i wish i do). i want to know how to tell when the timing chain is stuffed, does it make a ticking noise when accelerating?,
thanks for any help

 

[Shounak]

Go to howstuffworks.com, that's how I found out how an engine works. Keep going there as you learn, you keep learning..

If your timing chain is stuffed, then don't worry about a ticking noise. You can get serious valve and piston damage, requiring an overhaul of the internals (rebuild)..

You can't just open the bonnet to see the timing chain either. There's a lot of screwing around to get to it, to give you an idea. Most mechanics won't even go near it..

A ticking noise whilst accelerating could be due to a number of different things. Ignition system problem or it could even just be the coils firing.. I'm sure other people will proffer other options..

But I doubt highly it's your timing chain if you're driving the car still.

 

[andyman]

ok thanks, that howstuffworks is good

 

[mechdave]

G'day Deadfish,
The timing chain will usually give a rattling noise whilst engine is at idle and usually will quieten down when under revs / load. If you let your timing chain wear too much you could end up with pistons making love to your valves and that is quite expensive when it happens!!!
A timing chain is not easy to see as it is an internal component of your engine. I would not recommend you play with it if you don't have some mechanical experience. If you feel confident enough to have a play make sure you have the correct service manual by your elbow. Read the procedure in the manual several times before you even lay a spanner on your car!!! When you fit the new chain and tensioner, ( and preferably new sprockets too!!), turn the engine over until all the timing marks re-align and make sure pistons do not hit valves. If they do you will find the engine locks or partially locks. It is usually a good thing to do this with the spark plugs removed!!
And good luck!!

Mechdave...

 

[andyman]

G'day Deadfish,
The timing chain will usually give a rattling noise whilst engine is at idle and usually will quieten down when under revs / load. If you let your timing chain wear too much you could end up with pistons making love to your valves and that is quite expensive when it happens!!!
A timing chain is not easy to see as it is an internal component of your engine. I would not recommend you play with it if you don't have some mechanical experience. If you feel confident enough to have a play make sure you have the correct service manual by your elbow. Read the procedure in the manual several times before you even lay a spanner on your car!!! When you fit the new chain and tensioner, ( and preferably new sprockets too!!), turn the engine over until all the timing marks re-align and make sure pistons do not hit valves. If they do you will find the engine locks or partially locks. It is usually a good thing to do this with the spark plugs removed!!
And good luck!!

Mechdave...

Thanks for that, im not looking at replacing one i was just curious to know what happens when they wear out