91 300TE Timing Chain????

[Andrew Freimuth]

My 300TE has 125,000 miles on it and I am unsure if the timing chain has been replaced. I bought it when it had 110,000.


1) How often should the timing chain be replaced?
2) Do the rails and tensioner need to be replaced everytime
the chain is replaced?
3) Is there a way I can check to see if the chain needs to be
replaced aside from taking the vehicle to a mechanic?
4) Is this procedure something I should attempt myself or
should it be left to a professional? If left to a professional,
how much should I expect to pay?

[suginami]

The M103 and M104 engines don't need the timing chain to be replaced, probably ever.

The chains are very short, unlike the chains on the V8's which are very long. The six-cylinders also have a racheting tensioner which keeps the chain tight.

You'll probably never need to touch it.

I can only add one thing to suginami's accurate response and that is that the best timing chain maintenance is frequent oil changes, preferably hot and preferably draining overnight.

The worst enemy for your timing chain is microscopic particulate matter that accumulates in the oil. If you pull the drain plug right after shutting down the engine with oil temperature at its maximum, this particulate will be mostly suspended in the oil. Therefore, you will drain most all of it out. By draining overnight, you get out those last few drops of sludge. Those drops contain the highest concentration of this nasty particulate.

Merry Christmas,

Change oil hot, and change oil often,

[BJ300SDL]

Andy, What ever you do make sure you use a high quality oil additive. And it might even add life to your ignition. I,ve got some from I can sell you @ about 20$ a pint. It should make that chain last at least until you get 600k on it!.......Just kidding Andy, give me a call whenever you read this.

Orson buggy(barry)