Timing chain life span ford mustang

[mohammad bahzad]

The owner manual does not say anything about changing the timing chain. I am wondering, what is the life span of a timing chain and it`s components (retainer, sprocket). When do they usually require attention/to be changed?

my 04 gt has 88k miles, again just wondering

ssank you

Topic

[Richard Kirshy]

If the motor is properly operated and maintained …
The timing chain and components should last the life of the vehicle

[Larry Bible]

Modern roller timing chains do not normally require preventive maintenance replacement as do belts, for what are probably obvious reasons. That said, as mbahzad mentioned, it requires proper maintenance to keep them in condition for the life of the engine.

I will share what I have observed with Mercedes Benz timing chains over the years. To my knowledge they have never built a vehicle with a timing belt, not on models exported to the US anyway. They use quality chains, mostly double row and hydraulic tensioners. In many models, the tensioners are ratcheting so that as the chain “stretches” there is no slack while oil pressure is not present. “Stretch” is a term that is used, but is not literal. As the pins and links wear the tiniest bit, the wear of many links is added together to make the chain longer, so the term “stretch” is used.

What I have observed, is that the wear or “stretch” only occurs at a problematic rate in engines that do not see frequent oil changes. I have theorized that this is because the microscopic particulate that accumulates in unchanged engine oil causes the wear. SO…….. it is my experience that if you change your oil, as indicated in your owners manual, you typically won’t have to worry about the timing chain until overhaul time.

My $0.02,

[zero]

I’ve have to pile on that the only failures I’ve seen are also in cars with limited maintenance. Modern engines aren’t as robust when it come to things like coping with poor maintenance, something as simple as neglecting the oi changes can easily do a major component in. More often than not, timing chains are replaced as a victim of opportunity, rather than replacing a worn part. If it has to come off, might as well put a new one on.

[Author]

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