Timing Chain & Sprockets - Cleaning & Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Pontiac Sunfire and 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Clean the components with cleaning solvent.
CAUTION: Wear safety glasses in order to avoid eye damage.
Dry the components with compressed air.
NOTE: Do not replace only the tensioner or the chain to correct a noise condition caused by the camshaft drive components. When replacing the tensioner or chain to correct a noise condition all of the camshaft drive components must be replaced.
Inspect the timing chain for binding or wear.

Fig 1: Inspecting Timing Chain For Binding Or Wear
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Inspect the timing chain guide pads for unusual contact, excessive wear, or chain misalignment.

Fig 2: Timing Chain Guide Pads
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Inspect the camshaft and crankshaft sprockets for:
- Worn valleys between the sprocket teeth.
- One edge of the sprocket teeth worn.
- Crankshaft sprocket keyway for wear.
- Crankshaft sprocket key for wear.