Rick:
thx for the reminder..

Steve:
In a number of your responses regarding chain replacement issue, you had mentioned that the upper guides and rail should be replaced rather than the chain, since it is these parts that do brake. I am sure your opinion is based on specific situations, so would you comment on why you would recommend replacing the chain in my case? Is it because of the chain stretch as I have noted? or is it because of the mileage( at 150,000 miles)? I have driven the car for about 30,000 miles since I bought it 4 years ago, so I figure it would take about 5 to 6 years for me to put in another 50,000 miles...

thx,
emmy