Timing chain and chain dampers (guides) replacement - When?

[SomeDay]

Hi guys.
My Toyota 4Runner 1988 first gen 22RE has 140000 miles on the clock, it was used but well maintained by the PO. I have the maintenance history, but I don't see anything about the timing chain or chain dampers (guides) replacement.
The FSM, in the EM-48 section: Engine mechanical - Timing Chain - Inspection of components, says the check those parts need, but the FSM doesn't say anything about when it's the recommended moment to replace them.
So my question's when I should do that. When is the recommend moment to check/replace the timing chain or chain dampers. Suggestions please.
Thanks!

 

[txclimber]

I'm sure you'll get various answers, but like all things, it depends. Catastrophic failure of the TC is very unlikely. What does happen is the dampener/chain interaction becomes looser over time. While running, very little (if any) difference.

However, upon start up there is a brief slap of the chain against the TC cover. Over time, this will eventually wear through and create a point where coolant can come in, causing the dreaded "milkshake".

I would say, If you pre-emptively change the water pump, you're already in there, change the chain and tensioner. They're cheap.

I did a full rebuild on mine at 280k miles. At that time there was no evidence that the TC had begun to slap.

 

[SomeDay]

I'm sure you'll get various answers, but like all things, it depends. Catastrophic failure of the TC is very unlikely. What does happen is the dampener/chain interaction becomes looser over time. While running, very little (if any) difference.

However, upon start up there is a brief slap of the chain against the TC cover. Over time, this will eventually wear through and create a point where coolant can come in, causing the dreaded "milkshake".

I would say, If you pre-emptively change the water pump, you're already in there, change the chain and tensioner. They're cheap.

I did a full rebuild on mine at 280k miles. At that time there was no evidence that the TC had begun to slap.

That's good to know, thank you for your answer.
My 22RE's running very good at the moment, I don't have any need do replace the water pump right now. If it's not broken don't fix it, but the timing chain's the only thing that worries me because we plan to do a 3500 miles summer trip with our 4R, so in this case the preventive replacement'll give me peace of mind, I guess.

Where did you get the kit to replace it?
They sell the OEM kit one (OSK), but as far as I know, the guide rail on the drivers side's not steel in the original kit:
https://22reperformance.com/22re-engine-build-parts/timing-chain-kit

 

[txclimber]

I got mine here: Toyota Ala Carte

It's probably a good idea to include the TC cover when you get around to doing it. If there has been chain slap, there may be a groove starting to wear in yours. Cheap insurance.

 

[SomeDay]

I got mine here: Toyota Ala Carte

It's probably a good idea to include the TC cover when you get around to doing it. If there has been chain slap, there may be a groove starting to wear in yours. Cheap insurance.

Thank you!

 

[krenaud33]

Go with engnbldr. I have used their timing kits multiple times. Quality parts at a reasonable price and top notch service.

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