How long to do replace timing chain?

[clunk]

I have access to a shop space with all tools I would need but I'm curious how long the timing chain replacement should take a "mid-level" shade tree mechanic. I have done various repairs to my jeep over the last 2 years of ownership including a RMS job, installed my lift, done DIY alignments, exhaust work and cooling system maintenance etc etc. I'm pretty confident in my capabilities but I'm far from a speedy mechanic, I like to take my time, especially on new projects I have never tackled before.
I'm trying to decide if it's cost effective to replace it myself (renting shop space for $40/day+parts), or just pay the $550-700 the shop quoted me to replace it. I'd also like to replace my water pump and various hoses at the same time, something I don't want (or need) to pay the shop to do but would have to do at the same time regardless.
So, around how long would it take providing I don't run into too many problems. One day? Two days?

 

[89xj]

I have access to a shop space with all tools I would need but I'm curious how long the timing chain replacement should take a "mid-level" shade tree mechanic. I have done various repairs to my jeep over the last 2 years of ownership including a RMS job, installed my lift, done DIY alignments, exhaust work and cooling system maintenance etc etc. I'm pretty confident in my capabilities but I'm far from a speedy mechanic, I like to take my time, especially on new projects I have never tackled before.
I'm trying to decide if it's cost effective to replace it myself (renting shop space for $40/day+parts), or just pay the $550-700 the shop quoted me to replace it. I'd also like to replace my water pump and various hoses at the same time, something I don't want (or need) to pay the shop to do but would have to do at the same time regardless.
So, around how long would it take providing I don't run into too many problems. One day? Two days?

4.0 uses a timing chain that rarely ever goes and if it does stretch, the computer should be able to adjust timing. i have 240k miles on the original. if it does happen to break, the 4.0 is a non interference engine where no damage should occur.

now if were a timing belt on an interference engine, i would change after 75k miles.

 

[cwstnsko]

It's easier if you pull the grill and radiator. Once you're in to the water pump, you're most of the way there. Depending on the year, you may have to take loose a few more brackets to get the front cover off. The harmonic balancer can be tough to get off, not a lot of room for a puller

I've done at least 3 timing chains over the years (different Jeeps) and it always quiets the motor down quite a bit. If they stretch too much they start to jump teeth, then things get flaky.

 

[clunk]

4.0 uses a timing chain that rarely ever goes and if it does stretch, the computer should be able to adjust timing. i have 240k miles on the original. if it does happen to break, the 4.0 is a non interference engine where no damage should occur.

now if were a timing belt on an interference engine, i would change after 75k miles.

Well even if it rarely goes, mine needs replacing since I checked the slack in it 2 years ago when I did the rear main seal. At that time it was at the VERY end of it's allowable limit so I assume that it needs to be replaced badly now, 15k miles later. The annoying timing chain rattling Ive been putting up with for years is finally getting to me and I don't want to listen to it any more. Even if it wouldn't cause any damage, I believe in preventative maintenance and would rather take care of problems before they cause me any grief in the future.

 

[clunk]

It's easier if you pull the grill and radiator. Once you're in to the water pump, you're most of the way there. Depending on the year, you may have to take loose a few more brackets to get the front cover off. The harmonic balancer can be tough to get off, not a lot of room for a puller

I've done at least 3 timing chains over the years (different Jeeps) and it always quiets the motor down quite a bit. If they stretch too much they start to jump teeth, then things get flaky.

thanks for the input. Since I'm going to R&R most of the cooling system at the same time I don't mind pulling the rad and grill out if it allows easier access. Plus, dragging your knuckles across the back side of the rad when a wrench slips is no fun...

 

[89xj]

i completely understand where your coming from, if everything goes well(no problems with the harmonic balance, which should be replaced if its the original) it should only take 1/2 a day.

 

[clunk]

i completely understand where your coming from, if everything goes well(no problems with the harmonic balance, which should be replaced if its the original) it should only take 1/2 a day.

wicked, thanks for the info--I'll definately replace the harmonic balancer. I'm glad to know that even if the timing chain does go it won't cause catastrophic failure..I never knew that.

 

[89xj]

wicked, thanks for the info--I'll definately replace the harmonic balancer. I'm glad to know that even if the timing chain does go it won't cause catastrophic failure..I never knew that.

back in 96, i had the timing belt go on my wifes 93 eclipse and it took out the top end. the valves dropped into the cylinder heads. this was my first time dealing with a timing belt(i was used to gm blocks) and had it in for inspection when the mechanic said i should have it replaced. i didnt listen because i thought it was just like a timing chain. it just so happened that the belt broke a few months later. i was so pissed to think that an engine with only 80k miles would need a $500 maintenance job or the possibility of catastrophic failure could occur.