So, I haven’t replaced the timing chain before, but I was randomly watching this video as it’ll have to be done in the future (190k miles currently).

anyway, this guy had issues with the cover the first time, and got it the second time.

maybe it’ll help

 

Have you tried removing the alignment dowels and tapping them partway into the front of the front timing cover before installing it? Once the cover is in place, hand thread in a few bolts and tighten them slightly. Tap in the dowels to engage the holes of the rear timing cover before installing all of the bolts and torquing the bolts to spec.

 

Man this timing chain thing is stressing me out. I just purchased an 2009 with 166k km and the chain has not be done yet. I've bought the kit, I just need to do my research on who I should have install it.

 

Is it making noise? If not, there's no reason to change it. If it is, stick with genuine Nissan parts as far as the timing chain components. There have been problems with a number of the aftermarket timing "kits," including those from Cloyes, which used to be a reputable engine parts manufacturer but now sources some of its stuff from China. It's also a good idea to replace the oil gallery cover gaskets on the front of the rear timing cover with updated gaskets like those from Concept Z. I would also recommend replacing the water pump while in there, sticking with genuine Nissan, Aisin or Hitachi brand pumps.

CZP Rear Timing Cover Oil Gallery Gasket Set, VQ40DE - Nissan Frontier 05+, Pathfinder 05-12, Xterra 05-15 13533-VQ40DE-KT B-7991A26X14 13533-VQ40DE-KT-AB - Concept Z Performance

 

Nope, no noise at all yet. Sounds great. I just want to be prepared for what it sounds like the inevitable. I also purchased a water pump with my kit and all from Nissan. I will look into the gallery cover gaskets. Thanks for pointing that out.

 

You have to remember that the timing chain issues that affect the VQ40DE were due to the stamping process of the chain link plates whereas some of the links were stamped with worn tooling. This created a sharp edge that would cause the chain to cut into the plastic tension faces. If your engine's upper chain links weren't stamped with worn tooling, they may never be in need of replacement. Evidence of this is all of the other VQ engines that have 200,000 miles (or even 300,000) on them that are still running their original timing chain sets. It's not like the GM 3.6L-V6 where it's almost inevitable that you will have to replace the timing chains in the 100,000-mile range due to chain stretch. The upper timing chains in the VQ40DE engines that were made properly without worn tooling will, in most cases, last the life of the engine without concern.

 

Well, it only took a few minutes of research to realize for the 40$ it costs, I will also do the gallery gaskets while they are in there doing the chain and pump.