Broken timing chain query

[ehasler]

My engine recently suffered a broken timing chain, which was caused by the timing chain idler gear bearing failing.

This caused the chain to break, thus causing 4 bent valves and broken finger followers.

My warranty company are claiming that the damage to the valves and finger followers (plus oil pump and bearings, due to fragments of metal from the bearing and the other broken parts I assume) is not covered as it is consequential damage.

My argument is that all the damage happened at the same time - i.e., the moment the engine stopped. There was no prior indication that the bearing was due to fail, and therefore I think everything should be covered.

Any comments? Is it at all possible for the timing chain to break and there not to be damage to any valves?

[Daftlad]

ehasler said:

My engine recently suffered a broken timing chain, which was caused by the timing chain idler gear bearing failing.

This caused the chain to break, thus causing 4 bent valves and broken finger followers.

My warranty company are claiming that the damage to the valves and finger followers (plus oil pump and bearings, due to fragments of metal from the bearing and the other broken parts I assume) is not covered as it is consequential damage.

My argument is that all the damage happened at the same time - i.e., the moment the engine stopped. There was no prior indication that the bearing was due to fail, and therefore I think everything should be covered.

Any comments? Is it at all possible for the timing chain to break and there not to be damage to any valves?

The consequential damage is something I struggle with but have been there before (not with TVRs).

With house insurance, it's the consequential damge only paid for!

Some engines cam belts/chains fail with no damage, some the valve train and piston crowns see damage.

[jvr]

Are they paying for the chain as well?if so this was also a consequence of the broken idler gear,so therefore everything else should be covered.Scream shout and threaten legal action and report to the ombudsman,they are just trying to wriggle out.
Paul