1998 Dodge Caravan Timing Chain

JAYODER77

MEMBER
1998 DODGE CARAVAN
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
145,000 MILES

When should I consider changing the timing chain and is it relatively simply to perform myself? (I have basic repair skills - replaced ower steering pumps, alternators, brakes and rotors, etc.)

Sunday, October 31st, 2010 AT 7:52 PM

5 Replies

BLUELIGHTNIN6

MECHANIC
16,542 POSTS

If you have the 3.3L or 3.8L motor than it does have a chain and chains don't need replaced, they are meant to last life of vehicle. If it is the 3.0L than it has a belt and that should get replaced every 60,000 miles

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Sunday, October 31st, 2010 AT 7:56 PM

JAYODER77

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I do have the 3.3L Flex Fuel engine. That's great to hear. However, I was thinking I needed to replace it because I am hearing a "whine" in the engine. It doesn't go away and actual get's higher in pitch when accelerating. Now I'm thinking the water pump might be cause.

Thanks for the quick reply.

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Sunday, October 31st, 2010 AT 8:16 PM

BLUELIGHTNIN6

MECHANIC
16,542 POSTS

If the timing chain was to be going out it would actually give off a loud rattling noise, not a whine. Whines are generally from failing bearings in pumps such as the power steering pump or the water pump as you stated.

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Sunday, October 31st, 2010 AT 8:24 PM

JAYODER77

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3 POSTS

Power Steering pump makes more sense. I am getting more resistance when turning the wheels and not moving. The noise does get a little louder. I was just getting ready to replace the fluid. Better have the pump looked at now. Thanks again.

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Sunday, October 31st, 2010 AT 8:36 PM

BLUELIGHTNIN6

MECHANIC
16,542 POSTS

No problem, low fluid could cause that in the PS pump so if its low I wouldn't jump on replacing the PS pump itself until first filling it up and see if it helps.