Timing Chain Game

Timing chains really shouldn't deteriorate with time like a belt generally does. I dont' think I'd be thinking about changing that until at LEAST 60k miles, regardless of age. Of course I'd have it inspected and would act on anything the inspection found that might accelerate that schedule.

Are the H6's really scheduled for a new chain at 60k?

The H6s have no sched. interval for the chain. The tensioners typ. wear at 100K, 120K, 150K, or maybe more.

I hear the quality of oil and change interval has a bit to do with the tensioner/guide life.

The chains make a bit of noise, supposedly, when the chain and/or tensioners need replacement.

Dave

The rule is that chains don't get changed unless they make noise.

Most chains don't have a "service interval" like a belt does.

I had heard that the conventional wisdom was to replace the chain the second time you replaced the water pump.

Dan D '99 Impreza 2.5 RS (son's) Central NJ USA

Well, how often does *that* go?

Does it leak first, or make noise first?

Dave

I've read that the chain is supposed to last for the life of the engine. I believe I've read this in Subaru's "Drive" magazine or on their website. John

FYI: My '02 VDC H6 Sedan is currently at 102,500; no problems

This of course is necessarily true, because a broken chain instantly ends the life of the engine it's in. :-)

They generally leak or make a rotational 'noise' when they want attention.

Dan D '99 Impreza 2.5 RS (son's) Central NJ USA

Hah! Funny! However only in an interference engine... and I don't know if the 3.0 H6 is interference or not. John

I've been told yes, it is.

Dave