Timing chain replacement

Technical Area Engine, Transmission, Exhaust etc
1

I have been changing my timing chain and oil chain on my MX5 2009 1.8 NC. ON
On stripping the engine down I noticed that the chain guide was missing on the oil chain, Dose anyone know whether this engine version requires the guide. Up to now I have not taken the engine out but I am worried that the guide and bolts may have come out and fallen down into the sump which will require engine removal can anyone help?

  1. My model of MX-5 is: __
  2. I’m based near: __
  3. I’m looking for technical help or recommendations on: __
2

Yes, the oil pump does have a chain tensioner - see the parts list below.
Just out of interest why are you changing the Timing chain? They are normally pretty reliable and are not a “normal” service item.

image
image612×791 117 KB

3

Thanks for the reply, no problem with the tensioner it’s the guide that wasn’t fitted (item 15) I have an online manual and it doesn’t show this item so this makes me believe that it’s not required on my version 2009. I am changing this as yes there was a knocking sound and I have changed the Tappets and thought I would change the chain as a matter of course. I have bought the car with the problem and this is my current project.

4

The guide was apparently deleted sometime around 2009 Model Year but has according to Miata.net been found on some later engines so it looks like Mazda may have had a change of mind or maybe found some left over and decided to fit them?

5

Hmmm, I hope you are right as all the posts relating to your problem with the 1.8 engine, all seem to relate to big end bearings.
Good luck.:+1::slightly_smiling_face:

1 Like
6

Thanks for the advice you’re probably right. I have been carrying out the replacement of tappets as I visited a YouTube video which showed a car with tappets problem which sounded just like mine. The noise does seem to be coming from the top end although I know this can sometimes be misleading. Being retired you can make a few mistakes time isn’t a problem.

1 Like
7

I wish I could be so jovial and dismissive of a total waste of time and money, especially at an age where it becomes evermore apparent how little there is left and how precious it is. Whatever you’re on I want some :rofl:

8

Well we aren’t sure yet whether it was a waste of time. I did get the car cheap due to the engine problem and even if I do have to change the big end bearings I should be quids in.

1 Like
9

Oh we are, it’s an engine out and rebuild job to make it right.