When my SC2 flipped 100k miles, I went to my local dealer to figure out what
I needed to replace the timing chain. It turns out they have a complete kit
for the job, which includes everything you need to make the swap for about
$100. However, the parts guy and I got talking, and he suggested that
unless I could hear the chain slapping around a bit inside the engine, I
didn't actually need to replace it, even at 100k miles. There is no
designated service interval for it. What he told me is that the first thing
to wear out is the chain guides. This causes the chain to make a little
noise when it's due for replacement, and only then does it need to be
swapped. I had no such noise, so at his recommendation I just left, without
the timing chain kit, and without changing it.
Under new ownership at 130k+ miles, the car drinks oil like crazy (typical
95 Saturn, eh?) but still runs fine on its original timing chain.
I have no idea why the timing chain would affect the car's idle. That's all
controlled by the idle adjustment screw and the PCM.
- Justin
Visit SPOC National at http://www.spocnational.org
Don't forget to update your Profile in the Owners Database.
To unsubscribe from the list at any time, send an e-mail to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
with any subject, and in the message text, "Unsubscribe spoc".
