I brought my R53 to the mechanic and he told me I need to replace my timing chain. I know theres a lot of mechanics that just want to make a extra buck so they try and have u replace everything. With the timing chain what do I need?. I know the chain,tensioner,rails and stuff but do I really need new sprockets and a new timing cover? Im on a tight budget so if its not broken or cracked is it okay for me to not get it replaced? Any help would be really appreciated!. I just got the car a month or so ago and though I know how to do a few things im not to experienced with cars and I don't want this guy killing my wallet for no good reason.

 

What's wrong with the car that the tensioner needs replacement?

 

From what he told me is that the timing chain stretched and the whole timing chain mechanism needs replacing. when I search up timing chain it shows me The chain, The 2 rails, the tensioner and the bolts. the mechanic said I need to replace everything I just stated and both sprockets and all the gaskets and seals. He also told me I should replace the timing cover witch is pretty expensive so if its not broken I don't think im going to change it. He told me it would run me anywhere from $1,200-$1,500. Does that seem correct to you? I don't want to get screwed out of a lot of money if I don't have to.. I really appreciate the help man

 

If it is bad...it is bad....
It is uncommon to replace chain on the gen1 cars....usually a lifetime part... Or pretty close to it...
How many miles on the car?
Very common issue on the newer motors....but uncommon on the "tritec" powered mini cars....

 

Not at all familiar with the timing chain cover configuration on an R-53 but if it has any seals built into it I also would recomend you replace it at the same time as the timing chain assembly.

 

Being a shop manager I've seen gen 1 chain and or tensioner fail. If so u replace everything incl sprockets tensioner and all. Price sounds fair

 

what issues are you having that require you to change the chain ?

Perhaps you should start with replacing the chain tensioner and see what happens. They are a known problem and I beleive there has been a re-design.