What causes the wear on the timing chain?
What causes the wear on the timing chain?
It is not that the old oil doesn’t lubricate, particulates that get trapped in the oil that work between the pin/plates will create accelerated wear. In addition to oil change neglect and improper oil usage, using the wrong or low-quality oil filter can also cause accelerated timing chain wear.
Can a bad oil change cause a timing chain problem?
When new, the tensioner and guides work well to keep chain noise to a minimum. But if you don’t change your oil according to the carmakers schedule or use the wrong type or viscosity motor oil, timing chain problems can develop, such as timing chain stretch and even metal breakdown.
Where is the timing chain located in an engine?
The chain is located inside of the engine and needs to be lubricated by the oil in the engine, making oil maintenance important as well. Every time you use the engine, the timing chain is in use. When does a timing chain need to be replaced?
What kind of oil to use for timing chain?
GM requires DEXOS oil in all newer engines. DEXOS oil contains a higher percentage of anti-wear additives that are designed to prevent timing chain and high pressure fuel pump and camshaft wear. In addition, the oil life monitors are programmed to determine when to change your oil based on using the proper oil.
Can a jumped timing chain cause an oil or coolant leak?
The timing chain does not have anything to do with the cooling system and would not have caused a coolant leak. Your car has a warning indicator that lights up in the dash when it is low on coolant or oil telling the driver to shut the engine off, but it will NOT shut off on it’s own.
Can a bad oil cause timing chain stretch?
The bad oil can also damage the tensioner which makes the possibility of the engine skipping time or a catastrophic failure even greater. Some of the most notorious engines for timing chain stretch include the GM High-Feature V6, Ford Modular V8 and Nissan VQ V6.
The chain is located inside of the engine and needs to be lubricated by the oil in the engine, making oil maintenance important as well. Every time you use the engine, the timing chain is in use. When does a timing chain need to be replaced?
What causes extra load on the timing chain?
The wrong oil can cause extra load on the chain and the engine will not be properly lubricated. Each vehicle manufacturer specifies a minimum API oil service rating, a recommended viscosity, and often a specific oil.
