View Full Version : GM ques, sorry, 3.8L cam chain
Thomas C Potter
04-13-2004, 07:35 PM
OK motorheads. My sis-in-law has a 98 Gran Prix, 3.8L V6, with 105k miles. Some have said the cam chain is likely due to be replaced, others say it goes forever. Any solid info?? Does this chain have a ratcheting or hydraulic take-up?? Thanx
TP
Stephen Soulsby
04-13-2004, 08:26 PM
OK motorheads. My sis-in-law has a 98 Gran Prix, 3.8L V6, with 105k miles. Some have said the cam chain is likely due to be replaced, others say it goes forever. Any solid info?? Does this chain have a ratcheting or hydraulic take-up?? Thanx
TP
I'll start by saying that the Buick V6 motors (which is what your sis-in-law has in her Pontiac) is one of the most reliable engines you'll ever see. On both the supercharged and N/A versions I believe they use a mechanical spring loaded type tensioner (I'll have to check). Timing chains can last the life of the engine with no problems. However there are some people that like to change the timing chain at 100,000 miles to restore performance. Timing chains stretch over time and retard the cam timing as a result.
It comes down to being not a neccessary procedure, but if you have the money to do it there certainly is some benefit.
I hope this helps.
Fourth Horseman
04-14-2004, 02:51 PM
From my past experience (albeit not on that 3.8 liter engine) when a timing chain starts to get slack in it you'll know it. The timing will start to get sloppy. I don't think you can miss it. My opinion is that you only need to replace it if you notice trouble. Of course, I guess it couldn't hurt to swap it out just to be safe, but I'd probably leave it until/unless it gave me trouble.
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.5 Copyright © 2025 vBulletin Solutions Inc. All rights reserved.