1997 Nissan Altima grinding noise

MOSVALVE

MEMBER
1997 NISSAN ALTIMA

1997 Nissan Altima 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive 192000 miles

My car makes a grinding noise on the timing chain side of the engine. I have read in previous posts that a timing chain tensioner or guides may be at fault. After pulling the valve cover, I dont see how to get to these to check them out? I ran it without the cover for a minute and the noise isnt nearly as pronounced as it was.

3 Replies

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,814 POSTS

Hi mosvalve,

Thank you for the donation.

When the timing chain is bad, the engine would rattle at initial startup after sitting for some time. Do you have that problem?

Use a torch ligh to look for abrasion marks on the timing chain cover at the inner side.

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Saturday, May 29th, 2010 AT 11:41 AM

MOSVALVE

MEMBER
6 POSTS

It rattles pretty much all the time. I am not driving the car now, it runs too rough. There is some striping on the inside top of the valve cover, but not grooves. Can I change the tensioner or chain without breaking the motor down?
Thx

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Tuesday, June 1st, 2010 AT 4:30 PM

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,814 POSTS

Seems the timing chain is in really bad condition.

There is no necessity to break down the engine completely but at least the front timing chain cover has to be removed and it is not an easy job.

Care has to be taken while installing the chain and the timing has to be correct.

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Wednesday, June 2nd, 2010 AT 8:36 AM