Timing Chain and Sprockets Cleaning and Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Sonoma, 2003 GMC Jimmy, 2003 Chevrolet S10 Pickup, and 2003 Chevrolet Blazer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Refer to SAFETY GLASSES CAUTION in Cautions and Notices.

Clean the components with cleaning solvent.
Dry the components with compressed air.
Inspect the camshaft timing chain for binding or wear.

Fig 1: Cleaning and Inspecting Timing Chain & Sprockets
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Inspect the camshaft sprocket and the crankshaft sprocket for:
- Broken teeth (1)
- Damaged teeth (2)
- Chipped teeth (3)
- Worn teeth
- Uneven wear on the edge of the teeth
- Worn valleys between the sprocket teeth
- Crankshaft sprocket keyway for wear
  
  Fig 2: Inspecting Camshaft & Crankshaft Sprockets
  Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.