Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Timing Chain: Installation
LH timing chain
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- Install the LH timing chain with the single colored links aligned with the timing marks on the VCT units.
- Install the double colored links so they straddle the timing mark on the crankshaft sprocket.
- Install the LH timing chain guide and bolts.
Torque: 97 lb.in (11 Nm)
- Install the LH timing chain tensioner arm.
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- Position the tensioner in a soft-jawed vise.
- Using pliers, squeeze the ends of the ratchet wire clip together.
- Using the soft-jawed vise, compress the plunger to the reset position.
- Install a locking pin in the 2 holes of the tensioner body to hold the plunger in place.
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- Position the LH timing chain tensioner with the end of the tensioner correctly engaged to the tensioner arm.
- Install the bolt and stud bolt.
Torque: Stage 1: 89 lb.in (10 Nm) | Stage 2: 45°
- Remove the locking pin.
- Remove Special Service Tool: 303-1655 Tool, Camshaft Holding.
RH timing chain
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- Install the RH timing chain with the single colored links aligned with the timing marks on the VCT units.
- Install the double colored links so they straddle the timing mark on the crankshaft sprocket.
- Install the RH timing chain guide and bolts.
Torque: 97 lb.in (11 Nm)
- Install the RH timing chain tensioner arm.
-
- Position the tensioner in a soft-jawed vise.
- Using pliers, squeeze the ends of the ratchet wire clip together.
- Using the soft-jawed vise, compress the plunger to the reset position.
- Install a locking pin in the 2 holes of the tensioner body to hold the plunger in place.
-
- Position the RH timing chain tensioner with the end of the tensioner correctly engaged to the tensioner arm.
- Install the bolts.
Torque: Stage 1: 89 lb.in (10 Nm) | Stage 2: 45°
- Remove the locking pin.
- Remove Special Service Tool: 303-1655 Tool, Camshaft Holding.
All timing chains
- Install the engine front cover. Refer to: Engine Front Cover .
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
