Hello!

Can anyone give me an idea of the approximate lifetime for a timing chain and/or timing chain tensioner for a 280Z. I just purchased one with 112,000 miles, and am wondering whether or not I should change the chain and tensioner, just to be safe.

John

1978 280z

You already have a thread on this topic:nervous:

http://www.classiczcars.com/forums/showthread.php?t=28739

:tapemouth The timing chain will last for awhile longer. Depending on how you plan on driving it. Under normal driving conditions, it should last a long time. Do you know if it has been changed any time in its life so far? Or how it has been driven? Has the cam gear been moved yet from the first hole to second or third holes? If it hasn't been moved yet, look into moving it soon. It will improve the performance of the old engine. The chain will stretch over time and by moving the cam gear, it will put it back into proper timing. Also an old racing trick was to use the cam gear as a way to improve timing on the engine under racing conditions. We did it on our Solo II car. Good Luck, Rich.:classic:

Thanks for the responses! Seems that it might not be a bad idea to open in up and have a look. The person who owned the car before me had no idea about what repairs had been done in the 15 years he owned the car - just did not keep any records and knew nothing about cars. I'll wait till spring to open it up and will change the gears, chain, tensioner, and inspect the timing chain guides.

John