Hello all,
I would like to do a write up about timing chain problems on VQ35DE engines.
Mainly there are three problems:
1: Broken timing chain guide
2: Worn secondary timing chain tensioners
3: Sticky main timing chain tensioner
I've done a lot of searching on the forums about timing chain problems on VQ35DE. My car's problem was a rattle during start up. It would rattle everytime I start the engine after it was sitting for about 1 hour or so. Sometimes it would rattle sometimes not. Finally I openned the cap where the main timing chain tensioner and I saw that main timing chain guide broke.
Usually it brakes from the top and slides down. Therefore the main tensioner fully extends. Please look at the pictures down, so I can fully explain myself
I took her to my local mechanic here in brooklyn where I got a quote of $500 for the labor to fix this problem I would like to post pictures, so you guys can see where to look in case you have such problems.
Broken Timing Chain Guide
Picture 1
Picture 2
On this picture I circled where the tensioner is pushing against the guide and ruins himself and the guide.
Picture 3
On this picture you can see how the tensioner is fully engaged, but it does not help to create tension on the chain.
Picture 4
On this picture I tried to pull that plastic on the guide that slided down, because the top clip broke off and you can see where the tensioner suppose to push.
Picture 5
Today I got a call from mechanic. I went there to see whats going on. i took the pictures.
Please note that it was done without removing the engine from the car.
Picture 6
Not my picture though
Video how it sounds like (NOT MINE)
YouTube - Nissan Quest 3.5 timing chain noise
Another problem is worn secondary tensioners
Here is the picture I got it from maxima.org
When it happens you will hear a constant whine comming from your engine bay.
Video (Again not mine)
YouTube - Engine noise pt 2
I think I included everything.
If I was somewhere wrong, you are more then welcome to correct me
Hope it helps to solve your questions guys. :shift:
I would like to do a write up about timing chain problems on VQ35DE engines.
Mainly there are three problems:
1: Broken timing chain guide
2: Worn secondary timing chain tensioners
3: Sticky main timing chain tensioner
I've done a lot of searching on the forums about timing chain problems on VQ35DE. My car's problem was a rattle during start up. It would rattle everytime I start the engine after it was sitting for about 1 hour or so. Sometimes it would rattle sometimes not. Finally I openned the cap where the main timing chain tensioner and I saw that main timing chain guide broke.
Usually it brakes from the top and slides down. Therefore the main tensioner fully extends. Please look at the pictures down, so I can fully explain myself
I took her to my local mechanic here in brooklyn where I got a quote of $500 for the labor to fix this problem I would like to post pictures, so you guys can see where to look in case you have such problems.
Broken Timing Chain Guide
Picture 1

Picture 2

On this picture I circled where the tensioner is pushing against the guide and ruins himself and the guide.
Picture 3

On this picture you can see how the tensioner is fully engaged, but it does not help to create tension on the chain.
Picture 4

On this picture I tried to pull that plastic on the guide that slided down, because the top clip broke off and you can see where the tensioner suppose to push.
Picture 5

Today I got a call from mechanic. I went there to see whats going on. i took the pictures.
Please note that it was done without removing the engine from the car.
Picture 6
Not my picture though

Video how it sounds like (NOT MINE)
YouTube - Nissan Quest 3.5 timing chain noise
Another problem is worn secondary tensioners
Here is the picture I got it from maxima.org

When it happens you will hear a constant whine comming from your engine bay.
Video (Again not mine)
YouTube - Engine noise pt 2
I think I included everything.
If I was somewhere wrong, you are more then welcome to correct me
Hope it helps to solve your questions guys. :shift: