Timing Chain: Service and Repair

TIMING CHAIN AND SPROCKETS
The timing chain tensioner reduces noise and prolongs timing chain life. In addition, it compensates for slack in a worn or stretched chain and maintains the correct valve timing.


REMOVAL
1. Disconnect negative cable from battery.
2. Remove the fan and shroud.
3. Remove the serpentine drive belt.
4. Remove the crankshaft vibration damper.
5. Remove the timing case cover.

Crankshaft-Camshaft Alignment:

6. Rotate crankshaft until the "0" timing mark is closest to and on the center line with camshaft sprocket timing mark.
7. Remove the oil slinger from the crankshaft.

Camshaft And Crankshaft Sprockets And Chain:

8. Remove the camshaft retaining bolt and remove the sprockets and chain as an assembly.
9. To replace the timing chain tensioner, the oil pan must be removed.


INSTALLATION

Loading Timing Chain Tensioner:

1. Turn the tensioner lever to the unlocked (down) position.
2. Pull the tensioner block toward the tensioner lever to compress the spring. Hold the block and turn the tensioner lever to the lock position.
3. Apply Mopar(R) Silicone Rubber Adhesive Sealant to the keyway in the crankshaft and insert the key. With the key in the crankshaft keyway, install the crankshaft, camshaft sprockets and timing chain. Ensure the timing marks on the sprockets are properly aligned.
4. Install the camshaft sprocket retaining bolt and washer. Tighten the bolt to 108 Nm (80 ft. lbs.) torque.

Verify Sprocket-Chain Installation:

5. To verify correct installation of the timing chain, turn the crankshaft to position the camshaft sprocket timing mark as shown in. Count the number of chain pins between the timing marks of both sprockets. There must be 20 pins.
6. Turn the chain tensioner lever to the unlocked (down) position.
7. Install the oil slinger.
8. Replace the oil seal in the timing case cover.
9. Install the timing case cover and gasket.
10. With the key inserted in the keyway in the crankshaft, install the vibration damper, washer and bolt. Lubricate and tighten the bolt to 108 Nm (80 ft. lbs.) torque.
11. Install the fan and shroud.
12. Connect negative cable to battery.