A-series timing chain

[ryncharlton]

Hi all

have just bought a Maestro 1.3 , its seen better days but have plans to sort out the bodywork. Thing is , the engine is fairly tired , 150k on the clock and im about to service it , it runs well though and i want to keep it that way.

Because of its high mileage should i be worried about the timing chain or are they something that doesent need replacing at all?

many thanks , ryan

[G Force]

Hi Ryan. The timing chain set is not really a service item, they only need to be replaced if the chain set becomes noisey (a loud clattering from the front of the engine) or you have large fluctuation in the ignition timing figures.

If it isn't giving any symptoms then don't worry. The A series is a safe engine so if it did fail you would not be incurring a huge garage bill for bent valves and damaged pistons, like in the case of some more modern engines when the cam belt fails.

HTH:)