sandstone

Last year I replaced the timing chain in my '84 Dodge RamCharger (165,000 miles) as routine maintenance and insurance. The timing chain had stretched quite a bit. I replaced the timing chain in my '88 Dodge Power Ram (160,000 miles) 2 months ago. It also exhibited lots of stretch. I replaced both with Cloyes True Roller timing chains.

My '96 Cherokee 4.0 now has 165,000 miles on it and I'm considering replacing the timing chain, but I've searched through some posts on this site and most seem to be of the opinion that this is unnecessary.

What do you think?

dlundblad

I have heard of some folks doing it with about 350000 miles. Other than that, you should be fine. Heck, your 4.0 is still going through adolescence with only 165000.

capndoodles

With proper maintenance the timing belt should almost last the life of the engine. After all, the 4.0 is "bulletproof"

ol"blue

I know all stock timing chains stretch and need to be replaced. What that interval is I'm not sure, but I know a new one is cheap insurance.

bishop letov

Im at 207k miles and due to replacing the oil pan gasket , rear main seal and welding a patch panel in the oil pan because of rust, I just checked my timing chain just for giggles. Other then the polishing of the timing sprockets and very little play, its good for another couple hundred thousand miles..

So Ill secoond the term "good for the life of the engine"..

ol"blue

Did you purchase the vehicle new?

sandstone

So it seems that the consensus is that the timing chain in the 4.0 is good for 250,000+ miles. Since I have about 100,000 miles fewer than that on my engine, I won't worry about it.

Anyone know if the timing chain is a roller design? The timing chains on my RamCharger and Power Ram were "silent chain" types, with nylon sprocket teeth and nylon links (that's why I replaced 'em with a True Roller design timing chain as insurance.).