Engine - Timing Chain Noise

Classification:
EM96-006

Reference:
NTB96-086

Date:
September 11, 1996

1995-96 MAXIMA V030 ENGINE TIMING CHAIN NOISE

APPLIED VEHICLE(S):
1995-96 Maxima (A32)

APPLIED VIN(S):
Vehicles built before
JN1CA21D*TT159384, JN1CA21D*TT736598 or
JN1CA21D*TM417975
(depends on production line)

APPLIED DATE(S):
Vehicles built before February 2, 1996

SERVICE INFORMATION
A rattle noise may be heard from the front of the engine in the area of the timing chain cover. The noise may last for several seconds when the engine is started after a cold soak. In some cases, the rattle may occur continuously. A countermeasure (C/M) timing chain tensioner and guide is available to resolve this incident.

The C/M timing chain tensioner plunger bore is inclined at a slight angle to improve the air bleed from the bore. This new C/M tensioner and guide should be installed as a set whenever repairs are performed on the slack-side guide.

SERVICE PROCEDURE

1. Verify the engine noise is coming from behind the timing chain cover area and occurs under the conditions described above.

2. If the noise is verified, removal the old tensioner and check to make sure the oil feed passage to the chain tensioner is clear. Apply shop air to the oil filter mounting stud to pressurize the oil system. Cover the oil feed hole on the front of the block with a rag to catch any oil that may be blown out of the oil feed passage. A steady stream of air from the chain tensioner oil feed hole should be noted.

NOTE:
If the oil feed passage is not cleared by this method, then the oil feed passage must be cleared before installing the new tensioner and guide.

3. Install a C/M timing chain tensioner and guide as a set using the parts listed in the Parts Information table on page 2 of this bulletin.

4. Allow the vehicle to completely cool down and retest for the noise.





PARTS INFORMATION





CLAIMS INFORMATION
Submit a Primary Failed Part (PFP) claim using the coding as shown.