Does the 2.4 engine require a timing belt change?
Owners manuel suggests belt replacement at 104,000 miles.
My question is does the 97 2.4 have a belt or a chain.
Yes, I need to purchase a repair manuel, but thought I might find the answer on line at this website.
Thanks!

97 Hardbody
01 Xterra

I have the Haynes repair manual (1980 - 1996). It shows timing chain procedures, not timing belt. At the time I bought my vehicle I asked the salesman and he told me Timing Chain. Think I the can believe the manual not sure about salesman.

The V6 is the only one that had a timing belt. The 4cyl has a chain.

95 WD-21 Video system- otherwise stock.
95 D-21 with some trail goodies!
Tony Stewart didn't hit me!

What is the typical life of a timing chain. Gotten into discussions about the chain guides breaking and was wondering what the real life was of a chain. And what is the life of a chain if a chain guide is broken and could be rubbing against the chain.

They always claims its best to have them changed at 60k miles. I never bother replacing them until 90,000 miles. I heard people running original timing chain clear up to 150k miles. But keep this in mind, when that belt breaks, your motor is likely to go buh-bye. If it breaks under 60k miles, then the manufacture will cover it, assuming you are still under warranty.




GOT ANY BALLS??????????

Its the timing belts that break not the chains

As I should have done earlier, I checked the Chilton manuel and found that the 97 2.4 does indeed have a timing chain, so belt replacement is not an issue.
Thx!

97 Hardbody
01 Xterra

Thanks.. You have confirmed what I have read.

I have 120k on my 97 and am going to take it in for a major check-up. Do not expect to see a timing chain item on the list.

The major reasons for the check-up are:

Noisy lifters
Power steering leaking and screaming at times.