replace chain or not?

[wild_maxx]

i have my motor out and am debating whether or not to replace the chain also. i am replacing the tensioners and guides but do you think i should replace the chain and sprockets? the original chain has 97k on it. i heard the chains were strong and usually dont need to be changed. so do it or not? SOHC by the way.

[ILikeMy240sx]

dont replace the chins unless you see a broken link or something like that.. But do replace guides and tensioners.

[180fan]

The guides are a sure thing. Reason, your slack side is plastic. That will fail sooner or later. If you're gonna do the tensioners, might as well do the chain as well for a preventative measure. It's not like the chain costs alot either, so might as well, you're already 80% there, should consider going all the way. Just my 2 cents.

[dubstyles240]

I wouldn't replace the chain, but thats just me...

and can you do the guides/tensioners while the motor is still in the car?

[ILikeMy240sx]

you can do the upper chain easily with the motor in the car but the lower chain is going to be a major PITA from what I hear... but its possible.

People said its not hard but just so long and tedious and you have to pay alot of attention to little details.

[wild_maxx]

my motor is out of the car and sitting in my garage. this is the easiest way to work on it, especially doing a timing chain. SOHC is way easier than DOHC timing chain job.