I replaced the VVT with a full OEM kit @ 49K miles due to noise at start up, and the TSB recommending the updated VVT actuator. I now have 110K and I am now getting a lot on noise when the engine heats up that I believe it is the timing chain (It sounds like a diesel engine at idle). I can feel a bunch of slack in the chain when sticking my finder in the oil cap hole and checking chain tension when the motor is hot and just turned off. I could go ahead and just replace a few components (chain, guides, tensioner). But if I am doing a teardown I figure I might as well refresh everything. So I am wondering if I should put in the stock OEM chain, or go with the “upgraded” chain set up. Frankly not too thrilled having to do it again after just 60k miles so I am leaning towards installing the upgraded chain set up. I’ve read that the stock one is fine even for high HP applications. It’s more the durability, and I am primarily looking to eliminate the stretching issue. I could order the parts myself, but I see that xspeed fab sells a kit with everything bundled together. Anyone out there have any experience with the OEM chain stretching with similar mileage? And anyone have any experience with the upgraded kit? Thanks in advance for any thoughts/advice.
Timing Chain (I think) noise when hot, 60K miles after VVT replaced
- Thread starter Zogy
- Start date
Thanks for the feedback. I never heard the TDC tip but I’ll give it a try. I may try to see if I can feel for grooves in the valve cover thru the oil filler, or maybe using an inspection mirror. And in my defense, I was not suggesting an e-Bay upgrade kit. I was referring to a kit that uses all FoMoCo parts, but modern variants. The primary difference appears to be they use a different chain (a toothed chain vs. a bushed/sprocket chain), which appears to be what all modern Ford 4 cyl (2.3L and 2.5L) motors use. So, I assume they are getting better durability than the original OEM Mazda (actually Ford) design. Just wondering if anyone out there has tried that approach and has some feedback. Thanks again for any thoughts.
if I understood your first post, you already dealt with noise on startup before @49k miles, so there's a good chance your valve cover has already been grooved for 60k miles.