Timing chains mk3...

[skatmatt]

I am getting a 1994 VR6 golf and i was wondering how do you know its time to replace the timing chain? (before it ruins the engine )

Also is it worth getting someone to do it or is it easy enough to do yourself with enough patience?

I found a timing chain kit for about $200 at GAP but i got quoted $2000 to get one fitted.

Thanks in advance matt

[h100vw]

I am not the expert but the chains will be rattling when they need changing. The kit is cheap but as the gearbox has to come off to do the replacement, that's where the labour comes in.

Gavin

[peedman]

Ive heard $800-1500 depending on the workshop but yes its a bit job. I wouldnt let any run of the mill mechanic touch it tho, find a vag specialist. If ur planning to diy dont forget to buy the gaskets too.

[jayjay]

if you're in camden perhaps hit up camden gti?

diy is possible, in fact it's not as hard as you think, except it's quite time consuming. (read: having the right tools and taking 4 hours a day for 3 days if you've never done anything as such before)

[skatmatt]

thanks for the help guys,

yea it was camden gti that quoted me $2000

[peedman]

Re: Timing chains mk3...

If you've got all the tools and have the time and space diy it. It's not a fun job as I've found and I wouldn't do it myself unless I was taking a motor out.

[Jmac]

100% agree, way better job out of the car, stuff mucking around with the transmission out in the car. A - the engine isnt level with the guard so when you are looking at all the timing marks and stuff your are not looking square on. 3 mounts holds the whole lot in there really. Yes there is a bit more to it than that but having it out of the car you can have more confidence and much less fiddle, lets face it your transmission will have to come out anyway, way easier when out of the car. B - standing looking at tge engine and not givin yourself mechanics back is up there for me ( showing age now) my ole back is a catchin up on me
Dont forget the AMV paste from VW, the only one i would use to seal it
Jmac

[Mrk_Mickey]

If you've got all the tools and have the time and space diy it. It's not a fun job as I've found and I wouldn't do it myself unless I was taking a motor out.

Agreed...stupid VR6s and their tight-ass engine bay space.

I'd do it myself again, but definitely with the engine OUT.

[GoLfMan]

I'd do it myself again, but definitely with the engine OUT.

didn't Mischa and Jay Jay do most of the work on YOUR timing chains Mick?

[Mrk_Mickey]

They got the gearbox back in without me knowing, but I was there and taking part for the rest...

[Golf Loon]

thanks for the help guys,

yea it was camden gti that quoted me $2000

Thats including all parts, the proper vw sealant and a new rear main. Plus lots of labour. If it is done faster, it costs less.

You should also change the clutch unless it has been done recently, which will cost you another $350 in parts, but no more labour.

[Tomahawk]

would i still be looking at around $2,000 for the chains to be done in a GL, not a Vr6?

cheers, Tom.

[Golf Loon]

GL has a belt not a chain and is a much easier job to change.

[Tomahawk]

ok thanks heaps. sorry for the silly question but im pretty new to this haha

[Rob Burns]

This may seem a little weird but why would you want to replace the timing chain? It's not a maintenance item like a timing belt.