questions regarding S14 before purchasing

[Import Racer]

I'm looking for an S14, but I have a couple of questions first. The car uses a timing chain, not belt, right? I'm new to the timing chain so, how often do you need to change the chain? Is there a recommended milage it should be changed at? Is there any way of hearing or seeing if the chain has been changed? Is there any way of finding out if the chain is about to go? What other maintenance issues should I be looking at when buying a 240. Thanks.

Tom

[wiwalsh]

Timing chain is usually designed for the "life of the car". There have been many posts that detail the problems with the timing chain and what to look for.

Do a search for timing chain rattle... this details the problems when the timing chain stretches ever so slightly and/or has a failure in the tensioner device.

Many have had no problems with timing chain, many have had problems with timing chain.

Bottom line, rarely do you ever absolutely have to change the timing chain, but some do for various reasons related to performance. Some have to change it because it has become so slack that it wears through the timing chain cover. Timing chain rattle is a precursor to all these problems. So my recomendation would be to research that topic using the great and powerful search function as this has been discussed many times in detail.

Good luck!!!