Timing chain "check" EP3 CTR - what is it?

Timing chain "check" EP3 CTR - what is it?

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Norfolkandchance

Original Poster:

2,030 posts

206 months

Sunday 7th April 2019
quotequote all
I asked a garage to check the timing chain on my EP3 because the service history didn't show it being done.

They said it was fine, though it felt like a very quick check (they did lots of other stuff at the same time).

They are not Honda specialists but they do look after a lot of track day cars so they ought to know.

But I wondered what the check involved? Is it visual or does something need measuring?


Mark-t

298 posts

210 months

Sunday 7th April 2019
quotequote all
I believe the k20 has an inspection plate to view the chain tensioner to see how far it has extended on its ratchet. The garage may have done this or just listened for any chain-slap noise.
Where in the country are you? I recommend TGM take a look (it's worth the journey).
What mileage has it covered?

Norfolkandchance

Original Poster:

2,030 posts

206 months

Monday 8th April 2019
quotequote all
Thanks for the reply.

I'm in Norfolk. I was happy with it but recently have noticed the tiniest noise for a few seconds starting from cold. Which internet research said could be cam chain tensioner. Its done 116k miles. Has quite a hard life, but then don't all type-rs? No other symptoms.




chrismc1977

854 posts

119 months

Monday 8th April 2019
quotequote all
Misfires &/or cam sensor codes normally indicate a stretched chain. Not at all uncommon on a K20

Is it due an oil change? Won’t do any harm to change the oil initially & monitor the noise if it only occurs on start up


Norfolkandchance

Original Poster:

2,030 posts

206 months

Wednesday 10th April 2019
quotequote all
Good idea - I'll change the oil first.

krismccloy

256 posts

156 months

Wednesday 10th April 2019
quotequote all
What mileage is it on out of interest? EDIT. Saw your post.

If the chain is starting to go you will start to get a fast climbing rollercoaster sound on start-up for a split second, not to be confused with a 'sneeze' from the starter motor. Might only happen if car has been laying for a few days to begin then slowly get more frequent.

The tensioner is hydraulically assisted along with a spring and ratchet mechanism hence needing oil pressure built up before the spring and ratchet become effective in tensioning the chain.

Chain's do stretch and is a bit of a lottery depending on what kind of the life the car has had, chain rattle has been known at mileages around 70k and some cars are on 150k plus on the original chain. Seem's that oiling has a part to play because most aftermarket sumps put a lot of focus around the timing chain baffling.

An OEM chain kit along with some Honda Bond will be around the £280 mark and I would expect another £150-200 for fitting.

Edited by krismccloy on Wednesday 10th April 12:49

Norfolkandchance

Original Poster:

2,030 posts

206 months

Wednesday 10th April 2019
quotequote all
Thanks, I'll see what happens after the oil change.

Is there a next step after the noise starts - does the EML come on, for example, before the chain skips and the engine is broken?

df76

3,823 posts

285 months

Monday 15th April 2019
quotequote all
I’ve reviewed this before, and come to the conclusion that if it’s not rattling on start up, I’m not touching it.

Mines on 124k, no history of the chain being done, but doesn’t make any noise.

Norfolkandchance

Original Poster:

2,030 posts

206 months

Monday 15th April 2019
quotequote all
I think I'll do the same, if it goes away with the oil change.

Norfolkandchance

Original Poster:

2,030 posts

206 months

Thursday 2nd May 2019
quotequote all
HI,

Changed oil and rattle went away.

Thanks