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Timing Chain

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by bigblockcutlass, Jan 18, 2021.

  1. bigblockcutlass

    bigblockcutlass Junior Member

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    My 2009 has just over 200k on it now. The engine has gotten progressively nosier as the car has gotten older. I was wonder if other people here noticed a difference after installing a new timing chain. Does not look hard to do or a lot of money.

    Thanks
     
  2. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    There's lots of other engine care efforts that have to happen before you start working on the inside of it.

    And yes, when I worked in an auto shop in the 1980's replacing a timing chain was a go to solution for most problems, but on these new engines that are constantly tuned by the computers, I've almost never seen a worn out timing chain, let alone it being the way to fix an engine.

    Let us know the work you've already done on the engine and the work you'd like to do and we can then give you feedback regarding priorities/which ones will make the most difference.
     
    ydpplqbd likes this.
  3. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

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    If you’re taking timing chain off check valve clearance too? Could be the source of noise.
     

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  4. Kaptainkid1

    Kaptainkid1 Active Member

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    Why do you think you need a timing chain?
    I have 2009 Prius with 190k and she purring like a kitten or new Prius. It also has a good maintenance records do think your Prius might have a problem because lack of proper oil changes?
    Do you floor your Prius and drive it hard?
    Prius have timing chain which are considered very durable and generally can last up 500,000 miles with no problems. I rarely read about Prii's ever needing a timing chain. Get a mechanic to check out your Prius.

    SM-J737T1 ?
     
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  5. edthefox5

    edthefox5 Senior Member

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    Easier to replace the motor. Lots of cheap used lower mile motors. But have not seen many timing chains replaced on this site maybe one or 2 in the last 14 years.

    Noisier over years is most likely poor oil maintenance. What brand of oil do you use what viscosity? If you say 5-20 weight i'm going to laugh.

    I have included a picture of my valve train at 155,000 miles to show you the attitude of the chain if your heart is set on a new chain pull the valve cover off and see how yours compares to mine slack wise. if its more slack it may have worn tensioner's again from poor oil maintenance.

    if you do pull the cover off please post some pictures of the valve train so we can see if the cam journals are wiped out too. Cam will show excessive wear also if the chain is bad.
    A peek in there may help make your decision.
     

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  6. mr_guy_mann

    mr_guy_mann Senior Member

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    Ahhh. Clean metal resulting from proper maintenance. It's a beautiful thing.

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