Timing Belt/Chain And Sprockets: Inspection
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Inspect the following components:
- Sprockets for excessive tooth wear. Some tooth markings are normal and not a cause for sprocket replacement.
- Idler sprocket assembly bushing and shaft for excessive wear.
- Idler sprocket assembly spline joint. The joint should be tight with no backlash or axial movement.
- Chain guides and tensioner arms. Replace these parts if grooving in plastic face is more than 1 mm (0.039 in.) deep. If plastic face is severely grooved or melted, the tensioner lube jet may be clogged. The tensioner should be replaced.
- Secondary chain tensioner piston and ratcheting device. Inspect for evidence of heavy contact between tensioner piston and tensioner arm. If this condition exist the tensioner and tensioner arm should be replaced.
- Primary chain tensioner plastic faces. Replace as required (Fig 1).