98 I30 timing chain

[jto]

Hi,

I'm getting a loud knock coming from under the timing chain cover. I'm pretty sure the chain needs to be replaced. It knocks really loud when it's in gear at 1000-1500 rpms.

With 120k miles, I'd like to change it. The only thing I see that would get in the way looks like an engine mount of some sort that bolts to the passenger side fender well to the motor. Is it ok to unbolt this to get to the small timing chain cover bolts? I'd hate to see my engine collapse on the fenderwell or something.

I don't believe I have to retime it unless someone here tells me different. I could use some quick advice on how to do it if it needs to be done.

If anyone can chime in with some hints it would sure be appreciated!

thanks in advance!

[maxnix]

Timing chains never go bad with that few miles.

Are you certain of your diagnosis? Yours might be the first.

[jto]

I guess it could be something else, but it's definately from the passenger side of the motor under the cover.

I think since only happens under load (in gear), wouldn't that create slack for the timing chain? When I get to 2k RPM's I'm thinking it tightens up due to load.

[Q451990]

Didn't that era of engine have some sort of issue with VTC sprokets or solenoids? I hate to refer you to another site (bad netiquitte) but you might want to browse over at Maxima.org to see if you see anything that sounds familiar.

Heath

[jto]

I found a Service bulletin with the same symptoms as mine.Although it doesn't apply to my year or my VIN, is there another Service bulletin you were thinking about?

[Q451990]

I saw that one too... but realized it didn't cover your years. Maybe that's what I was thinking about. Might be worth pulling a rocker (valve) cover first to see if you can see any signs of damaged guides. I don't really have much experience with that engine

Heath

[jto]

There's an access plate on the timing cover which will allow me to get to the timing chain tensioner. Six bolts and some sealant is worth a try before I go ripping into the cover.

As soon as I find one, I'll install it and let you know.

Thanks!

[jto]

So I replaced the Timing chain tesioner today and still have that awful knocking sound at 1k-2m rpms under load. The timing chain tensioner wasn't over-extended when I took it out or put the new one back in. I figured that to be a good sign, right?

The only thing I can do without ripping into the timing chain cover is to change the water pump. Could the design of the water pump cause it to make a knocking sound instead of leaking first? Bad water pump bearings maybe?