1995 Maxima Hard Starting

[MajnoLo]

Hi there. Just paid $250 to have my 95 Maxima not fixed. Problem is stumbling during starting - almost like the timing is way too advanced. Kicks and almost stops, then continues to crank. Sometimes when hot can take a long time to start. After changing the crank angle sensor to no avail, mechanics just told me timing chain is way loose and causing error which is showing up as check engine light on. I find this hard to believe - that the timing chain could be that far off. This Max has 150k miles. I have another identical Max with over 220k miles no problems (body problems). They tell me that I need $1,500 timing chain fix. I just redid the top end of a Porsche 944S but do not know the guts of the Max V6. Where to go for a good answer?? HELP!

[MinisterofDOOM]

Timing chains can stretch a bit over time, but not to that degree. It's possible that some of the tensioners failed and allowed for too much slack, but I doubt very much that's the case.

How does the car run after it's been started?

[Ryan Heo]

I have almost the same problem on 96 I30. I've been infiniti dealer today. They checked the engine and then "the best guess is ignition coils, next the camshaft sensors, crankshaft sensor even though it doesn't have check engine light. I paid $90 but they were not sure.Thanks.

[MajnoLo]

Hey - thank you for responding - I am new to forums! Car purrs like a kitten once started - runs great! Just very weird during cranking. I have noticed over the summer that it is worse when it is hot out (ambient). Engine temp seems to have little effect...

[Ryan Heo]

That's the exactly same problem.