BRZ Servicing
 

I have just phoned the Subaru dealership service department try to find out what actually gets done during each of the services. I was referred to the Subaru Australia website; it lists the service plans but doesn't actually say what is supposed to be done. In the course of conversation it was mentioned that the late model vehicles with timing chains don't need to have them replaced unlike timing belts. Do chains that are constantly running in oil never wear out? (When I say never I mean within the life of the engine). Does anyone have an opinion on this?

they stretch.

I do recall my mechanic telling me that chains can get loose (worn down), rattle and the guides can crack which means you still need to replace it but you shouldn't need to replace it until sometime after 100,000km?

Besides that I did have a timing chain tensioner replaced in my previous car but thats about it.

They can stretch and also wear out, it's not uncommon on new engines to get the material of sprocket wrong when trying to cut costs.

Ahhh! *click* Maybe they don't get replaced during a regular service only when it is required.

Did he actually confirm though that our cars have chains not belts?? or was he just talking about generalities with subies... from previous experience with Subie all the 4Cyls were still belts whilst the 6's were chains.


in rare circumstances they CAN stretch... at a 100k KM service they check it, but if it aint broke they dont need changing.

why waste $'s you dont need

The BRZ Warranty and Service Handbook has whats done at each service listed just over half way through the booklet. Service Dept probably don't look there!

Cannot see any mention of the timing chain listed, up until the 120,000 km "H" service.

The FA20 engine does use timing chains.

Talking to our workshop foreman, he said the timing chains under normal operating conditions should out last the usual ownership timeframe of most vehicles (ie: 5-6years).
They do not get replaced under the standard servicing schedule, but do get inspected for damage/wear and have in the past been replaced under warranty if damage/wear is noticed during the warranty period. (This is talking from a Toyota workshop perspective).

My high revving ZZT celica has a chain, has done over 300K since new, is not noisy, runs perfect & doesn't ever need changing. I do however change the oil often - every 5K. I can't vouch for Subaru engines though !

I found this a while ago and saved it. Couldn't find the link on FT86club

Attachment 21768

I've replaced a timing chain, it's a nasty and expensive exercise but they are correct - generally it will outlast the engine. Normally a new tensioner takes up most of the slack but occasionally it'll be too stretched and then you'll be up for tensioner, chain, guides, etc. This was timing chain noise on my 55,000km old SR20 (pretty rare occurance): [ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bvd4YeSBM3s"]My N15 SR20DET-conversion (Avenir) timing chain noise - YouTube[/ame]
- could be heard some 20m away from the car with the bonnet closed.