What are some of the symptoms on a 1998 Dodge Intrepid, when I need my timing chain replaced?

Answer 1

The 2.7 has the timing chain and the 3.2 and 3.5 have a belt. There are really no warnings to replace either they just go. If it were my car I would replace the belt at 70k miles and the chain trenched at the same mileage. the chains really don't ware but they are oil trenched and if the o-ring in the trencher fails the chain will slip and destroy your engine. This is also why the 2.7 engine has a bad rep. If the oil runs low or is muddy the chain will get loose.

Answer 2

98 intrepid 3.5 has a belt. It will not give any warning. It just breaks. Replace it around 100,000 miles to be safe. if it's a 3.3/3.8 engine,it has a timing chain and gears.The way this engine is built, It WON"T break OR jump. But it may give you a loose rattling noise when it gets real loose. You might replace it (and the Gears) to quieten it down.

Answer 3

i have a fully loaded 3.2 v6 1998.

replace timing belt and water pump (since its right there when you replace the belt, and its cheap) at 100k. if your past 100,000 miles, do it asap.

check this site out.

www.dodgeintrepid.net/forums

my screen name there is speepdaedeesi

you want to look in the 2nd gen forums. 2nd generation is the intrepid made from 98-04

1st gen was beforethat


check it out and drop me a line there


ive dont just about all maitenance on my trep. today i did a differential fluid flush, and changed all 4 rotors and brake pads. theres alot of how tos and advice on that website. check it out!!

Answer 4

Ok, when it cranks, but doesn't start, do you smell gas? If so, we know then its not fuel. Then I'd guess maybe a computer problem, or ignition module problem, or even the crank position sensor. Is hard to say unless you can get the car to run, and that check engine light comes on. Or worst case, someone unplugged something under the hood.

Answer 5

Many times the timing chain with rattle around before it fails. The sound is hard to differentiate from valve and cylinder malfunction noises. Though I hate to say it, that is one of the worst cars on the road. My true opinion is that if it is running, sell it.

Answer 6

You used to be able to check if the radiator fan wiggled, but w/today's electric fans, that won't work. If you are lucky, the car won't start or will run rough because the chain slipped on the timing gears. But otherwise there will be little warning, just engine failure.

Answer 7

your best bet is to talk to a dealership