Should I Change the Timing Chain?

[illzwhy]

Hi all~!!!!

I just bought an old Alero 2001, 2.4L Sedan.

It has 84000 miles on it now....and nothing has been done to its timing belt/chain before...I was told it has a chain?

Shouldn't it be replaced when it was at 60000 miles?

Does anyone know if I should do anything to it....or, if it runs well now, I just leave it and use it as it is?

All replies appreciated~!!!

Thanks all~!!

[Lucalare]

The LD9 uses chains yes. As for changing it, if it ain't broke don't fix it.

[Chris2000]

Replacing the timing belt and the timing chain are 2 seperate things. The chain you don't even want to touch and you probably couldn't unless you knew where it was. The timing belt however is the correct thing you're talking about. It isn't necessary to replace it, but after about 80k miles it's recommended. If it is squeaking or showing any signs of wear then yes of course replace it.

[heineck]

the chains not the problem, its when the tensioner gives out and it starts hopin off by a few teeth. its up to you, theres nothing wrong with doin it if u want the peace of mind that its taken care of. get out all the sludge thats behind the timing cover while ur at it.

[comanche]

It's pretty easy to do, I'd also recommend just a tensioner replacement.

[alero_bmxer]

Originally Posted by Chris2000

Replacing the timing belt and the timing chain are 2 seperate things. The chain you don't even want to touch and you probably couldn't unless you knew where it was. The timing belt however is the correct thing you're talking about. It isn't necessary to replace it, but after about 80k miles it's recommended. If it is squeaking or showing any signs of wear then yes of course replace it.

the 2.4 uses a chain not a belt.

[Chris2000]

Originally Posted by alero_bmxer

the 2.4 uses a chain not a belt.

I'm talking about the serpentine belt. I'm almost positive there is one since it's kinda under the hood of my 2.4

[alero_bmxer]

haha you know i thought of that right after i posted. sorry about that

[Redog]

Yeah leave it alone.

Timing belts are known to free up horsepower and torque and chains rob HP and Ft/lbs, however the chain lasts longer and has less of a chance of breaking.

I did the timing chain in my Olds 350. Way different motor, but the motor was also close to 40 years old when I did it. It was streched a bit, but still the orignal chain with over 250,000 miles on it

[illzwhy]

wow thanks everyone for their advice....

yups I also read it uses a chain instead of a belt too....and yea, will check with the workshop on changing the tensioner.

i do not know how to do these work that's why i'm worried.....and truly thankful of all advice~!!! ; )