What year did the timing keepers change on the Q?

[btmiller]

Hello all, I need to know when the timing setup was changed as I'm looking at buying a JDM motor and I need to know what year the setup was changed, the car I have is a '91 and I was told that I could use a 94 - 96 motor to avoid the plastic keepers. The supplier I'm talking to is http://www.usedjapanmotors.com/ in Houston, the Manager said only 90 to 93 motors will work in the 91 as the 94 to 96 use crank trigger and the oil pump is different. Please advise to this problem, thanks.

Regards,Brandon Miller

[96Qowner]

The harnesses also differ enough to be a real PIA. You're best staying with a 90-93 and replacing the plastic-backed chain guides before it goes into the car.

Timing never changed, to my knowledge, but the injector rails are different.

[Q451990]

Welcome to NICO Brandon!

The timing chain guides were plastic in all 90-92 production Q45s, and some '93 Q45s. We don't have a real idea of when in the 1993 model run the guide design was updated.

The 94+ does use a different crank angle sensor, as well as some other design differences. To my knowledge the oil pump is the same on the entire model run.

I really think your best bet is to get the best looking, cleanest (internally) 90-93 engine and replace the TC Guides, gaskets, hoses, etc. while it's on the stand. You'll save yourself a lot of headaches vs. trying to cut and splice wiring harnesses and making all of that work.

Good luck!

Heath

[qship96]

cheaper to part the ole girl out and shop for a newer Q,as proper engine replacement will cost 5K,which will also buy a newer 94+ Q in great condition with a good motor already in it

[elwesso]

you CAN swap a 94 into a 90-93. The only thing you need to change is the harness for the CAS. The 94 CAS is the same just with a different connector.

I wouldnt rule out installing 94 motors into 90-93, you just have to be ready for what can happen. other than that, everything else is the same.

[maxnix]

Welcome to NICO Brandon!

The timing chain guides were plastic in all 90-92 production Q45s, and some '93 Q45s. We don't have a real idea of when in the 1993 model run the guide design was updated.

Or even for sure if even one ever was as no board member has owned a 1993 since new that has had the metal backed chain guides.

Read Q45tech's posts on selecting and rehabilitatiing JDM takeout VH45DE.

[maxnix]

engine replacement will cost 5K,which will also buy a newer 94+ Q in great condition with a good motor already in it

In reality, most are $3K -$4K with at least $6K of repairs needed for deferred maintenance. Very few good G50 left on the non NICO open market.